The dock area at the entrance of the exhibit features artifacts from all over Latin America and the Caribbean. Exhibit Design: Patrick McBride & Co.

A raised walkway leads visitors past four dramatic stone idols found in the coastal areas of Nicaragua. Exhibit Design: Patrick McBride & Co.

Here the mineralogical landscape is depicted to demonstrate the importance of minerals for functional and ceremonial purposes to both ancient and contemporary cultures of Latin America.

In the field camp area, a Mayan thatched house features Aztec cultural artifacts from Mexico acquired through an exchange program pioneered by Smithsonian's Henry Holmes. Exhibit Design: Patrick McBride & Co.

A full-scale nine-foot replica of the "Olmec Head El Rey" is featured among Olmec cultural artifacts from Smithsonian-sponsored excavations. Exhibit Design: Patrick McBride & Co.

Here a replica of King Pakal's tomb at Palenque is featured with a full-scale sarcophagus and skeletal remains. Exhibit Design: Patrick McBride & Co.

In the archaeological pit, visitors may sift through gravel to find replica pottery sherds and fossilized sharks' teeth as they learn about the archaeological process. Exhibit Design: Patrick McBride & Co.

Smithsonian Expeditions culminates in the scientists' laboratory where visitors may engage in hands-on activities and learn about research projects currently underway by the Smithsonian and South Florida institutions.