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The best museums in Washington, D.C. to visit year round

Art, sculptures, spy mobiles and famous slippers—the world's history and treasures are on display at the best museums in D.C.

Photograph: Shutterstock

History buffs, art enthusiasts and people simply interested in America's past need to look no further than the best museums in D.C. The nation's capital has much to offer in the way of cultural institutions, many of which are free to enjoy, we might add. You'll find most of them within walking distance to one another, if not a short ride or drive away. Washington, D.C.'s best museums are housed in some of the country's most remarkable buildings. So, if what's inside doesn't pique your interest, marveling at the architecture will keep you busy for many hours.

Visiting the best museums in D.C. can get a bit overwhelming, but we're here to guide you to the galleries and spaces you can't miss—whether you're into modern art, pop culture, African American history or old nuclear missiles. Trust us, there's something for you. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best  things to do in Washington, D.C. 🏛️ The best  Washington, D.C. attractions 🍴 The best  restaurants in D.C. right now 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in Washington, D.C .

This guide was written by Washington, D.C . locals.   At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best museums in D.C.

1.  national museum of african american history and culture.

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The most iconic museum in D.C., the National Museum of African American History and Culture, has eight floors of fascinating historical exhibits. Here, you’ll find tributes to historical figures, moments, and events that have shaped America’s past and present day. You’d actually need a number of days to fully explore everything here, but you can still get a mighty lot done in a few hours (with a stop at the lovely Sweet Home Café for lunch). 

2.  National Museum of Asian Art

The National Museum of Asian Art is an incredibly thoughtfully put together group of exhibits to help visitors learn about Asian history in the US and beyond. From Chinese and Japanese contemporary art to artifacts from Ancient Egypt, this museum is a central hub for the Asian community and more in D.C. You can book self-guided visits, virtual tours or onsite tours, and there are kid-friendly days and tours too. 

3.  National Museum of the American Indian

Dedicated to America’s colonized and historically abused Indigenous people, the National Museum of the American Indian joined the Mall in 2004, bringing with it significant Native American artifacts and a renowned cafeteria. (The Mitsitam Native Foods Café offers a stunning collection of dishes inspired by Indigenous cuisines.)

The building is as much a part of the message as the exhibits. The details are extraordinary: dramatic, Kasota limestone-clad undulating walls resemble a wind-carved mesa. The museum’s main entrance plaza plots the star configurations on November 28, 1989, when federal legislation was introduced to create the museum. The museum is also curated with art in various mediums from a diverse assortment of Indigenous American nations. Artwork includes film, photography, pottery, textiles, woodworking, and much more. 

4.  Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden

• Art and design

This spectacular, aggressively modern cylindrical building enlivens the predominantly neoclassical architecture lining the Mall. The structure, which was completed in 1974, was meant to house self-made Wall Street millionaire Joseph Hirshhorn’s collection of 20th-century paintings and sculptures. The museum now presents art in a range of media, including works on paper, painting, installation, photography, sculpture, digital and video art. The museum has housed some of the most-hyped visiting exhibitions on earth, from Ai Weiwei’s "Trace" to Kusama’s "Infinity Mirrors."   

5.  National Museum of African Art

This museum ’s entrance pavilion lies across the amazing Enid Haupt Garden, directly across from its twin, the Sackler. The museum opened in 1987, and its primary focus is ancient and contemporary work from sub-Saharan Africa. The museum draws visitors into different aspects of African art and culture. The rich ceremonial garb and textiles, including blankets made in Mali and embroidered hunters’ shirts, are a must-see.  

6.  Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum

The Renwick's informal motto might be "go big or go home." The museum is popular for its interactive exhibits and large-scale modern art pieces. Perhaps best known for its blockbuster, much-Instagrammed exhibits, 2015's "Wonder" and 2018's "No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man," this Smithsonian museum celebrates craft and design in the digital age. Other notable exhibits have included the quirky “Murder Is Her Hobby,” a collection of gruesome doll houses used to help detectives solve crime scenes. 

7.  National Air and Space Museum

Air and Space tops visitors’ to-do list, year in, year out. In the central Milestones of Flight Hall, towering U.S. Pershing-II and Soviet SS-20 nuclear missiles stand next to the popular moon rock station, where visitors can see a lunar sample acquired on the 1972 Apollo 17 mission. The 1903 Wright Flyer—the first piloted craft to maintain controlled, sustained flight (if only for a few seconds)—and Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St Louis are both suspended here. Carve out three to four hours and don't miss the test model of the Hubble Space Telescope, which is currently orbiting in space, taking snapshots of the universe. 

8.  National Museum of Natural History

The Museum of Natural History is iconic on the Mall. The museum boasts longtime favorites like the Hope Diamond, which has drawn crowds for over sixty years, and state-of-the-art exhibits like the Hall of North American Mammals. The recently renovated Hall of Fossils is a must-see— visitors may feel as if they've traveled back in time. But don't worry, these dinosaurs don't bite.  Dinosaur fossils are posed interacting with each other, even engaged in life-and-death battles.

9.  United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

This three-floor museum contains more than 900 artifacts and four theaters showing archival footage and survivor testimony from the Holocaust. Themes such as the murder of the disabled, Nazi eugenics and resistance, and Jewish resistance all present a chronological history of the event.

The objects and symbols make powerful impressions: thousands of camp victims’ shoes piled in a heap personalize the losses. While the main exhibition is suitable for children of 11 and over only, a specially designed children’s exhibition, “Daniel’s Story,” at ground level, is presented to children of eight and over and teaches about the Holocaust through the story of one boy. Guests should consider reserving their tickets beforehand since wait lines can be long. 

10.  Smithsonian American Art Museum/National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum take up two sides of the same interconnected building. Among the most notable portraits are Gilbert Stuart’s seminal “Lansdowne” portrait of George Washington and Andy Warhol’s iconic Marilyn. The Portrait Gallery houses the only complete collection of U.S. Presidents' portraits, while the American Art Museum houses prominent works by American artists, including Edward Hopper and Georgia O’Keefe.

Unlike many other museums in the area, the dual museums also include an open, airy courtyard—the perfect place to rest, eat lunch, read a book, or splash your feet in the flowing water fountains.

11.  National Gallery of Art

• National Mall

Comprising two separate buildings connected by a trippy underground moving walkway, the National Gallery of Art is a world-class museum with artwork from around the globe.

The West Building highlights European and American art from the 13th to the early 20th centuries, as well as Spanish, Dutch, Flemish, French and German works from the 17th century. Don't miss Leonardo da Vinci’s almond-eyed portrait of Ginevra de’ Benci, the artist's only work in the Western Hemisphere.

The East Building represents more current work, including a skylit atrium that houses a 32-foot-long still mobile by Alexander Calder. Stroll through the sculpture garden, a six-acre square across 7th Street that includes a Louise Bourgeois 10-foot bronze spider and a pyramid by Sol LeWitt. Free timed entry passes are required.

12.  National Museum of Women in the Arts

The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) houses a collection of more than 4,500 works by more than 1,000 women from the 16th century to the present. Highlights of the permanent exhibit include Frida Kahlo’s defiant 1937 Self-Portrait Dedicated to Leon Trotsky , as well as works by Elisabetta Sirani, Alma Woodsey Thomas and Barbara Hepworth. There are also special collections of 17th-century botanical prints by Maria Sibylla Merian and works by British and Irish women silversmiths from the 17th to 19th centuries. The museum hosts free community days every other week, on the first Sunday and second Wednesday of every month.

13.  Postal Museum

The Postal Museum is perhaps the most obscure of the Smithsonian’s offerings. A museum devoted to postal history and philately (stamp collecting) may sound like a hard sell, but there’s a trove of interactive and entertaining exhibits housed within the skeleton of what was once the enormous D.C. City Post Office. Check out the permanent exhibit “Systems at Work,” which recreates the journey of letters, magazines, parcels and other mail from sender to recipient. Pick out stamps from around the globe to start your own stamp collection. Write and ship a postcard directly from the museum. And go to the downstairs level of the museum to explore how mail has traveled across the country on trains, planes, and carriages.

14.  National Museum of American History

The continuing transformation of the National Museum of American History has led to several renovations that highlight some of America's most beloved artifacts. Floors are organized around loose themes, allowing a huge diversity of exhibits to tell American stories in an entertaining and informative manner. We love the First Ladies' dresses and Dorothy’s ruby red slippers. Oh! And there’s Julia Child’s actual kitchen. 

15.  National Building Museum

• Judiciary Square

A privately run collection, the National Building Museum produces smart, noteworthy exhibits focusing on architects and the built environment, both contemporary and historical. Among the exhibitions, "House & Home" discovers the history and many meanings of 'home,' both physical and cultural, with an array of all things household, from household goods and decorations (including a poster of Farrah Fawcett and a fondue set), to building materials to mortgage papers. Fittingly, the building itself is gorgeous: an Italian Renaissance-style Great Hall features eight colossal 75-foot Corinthian columns that lead to a ceiling 15 stories above. 

16.  International Spy Museum

• Penn Quarter

The world of D.C.’s prestige paid-entry museums was shaken up dramatically in 2019, with the Newseum closing indefinitely and the International Spy Museum moving to sleek new digs in L’Enfant Plaza. In its larger space, the museum boasts many exhibits that lean so hard into “infotainment” that a trip can feel less like learning about spies and more like a game of pretending to be one. Test your sleuthing abilities and gawk at an array of spy gadgets, including KGB-issued poison pellet shooting umbrellas and Germany’s Steineck ABC wristwatch camera. James Bond junkies will be in heaven—the groovy silver Aston Martin from 1964’s Goldfinger assumes a central spot in the museum. 

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10 Best Museums in Washington, D.C.

One of Washington, D.C.'s biggest draws are its museums, an activity dismissed by (too) many as a snoozefest or a little tired. Our nation's capital, however, has mastered the art of creating tailored and intriguing explorations of art, history, and culture. Don't believe it? You’ll find temples dedicated to everything from the development of spycraft and space travel to serious dives into modern art and African American history. Even better, most of them are free to enter. They provide experiences you just can't miss when you're in town, but there are so many, it can be hard to figure where to start. So to help, here are our picks for the best museums in Washington.

Read our complete Washington, D.C., travel guide here .

National Museum of African American History and Culture Arrow

It’s hard to imagine improving upon the grandeur of the historic National Mall , miles of greenery surrounded by world-class monuments and museums. But in September 2016, the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture did just that. This relatively new addition to an iconic landscape houses artifacts, photography, and other media that reflect African American culture and experiences. Here you’ll find Harriet Tubman’s personal hymnal and silk lace and linen shawl, a bill of a sale for a young enslaved girl, Louis Armstrong’s trumpet, photos capturing the participation of Black women during the Civil Rights Movement, and a collection of costumes from ‘The Wiz’. Given the scope and size of the space (85,000 square feet), this is best saved for a day when you have plenty of time to devote.

Planet Word Arrow

Planet Word explains itself as "the museum where language comes to life," which means it's not driven by artifacts or a collection, per se. This place is all about the fleeting words we use every day to express ourselves, without even thinking about it. While it seems like a niche topic—one that English majors, book lovers, foreign language learners, and linguists will love—founder and former teacher Ann Friedman hopes to spark conversations and an appreciation for literacy in everyone who visits. Located at 13th and K Streets NW at Franklin Square, this free museum opened in October 2020.

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden Arrow

Nothing is off limits at the Hirshhorn, whose vast permanent collection boasts a fine range of pioneering sculpture, digital media, photography, video, performance-based pieces, and more, all from 21st-century innovators. On our most recent visit, a seismic new commission of abstract paintings by Mark Bradford encircled the entire third level inner-circle galleries, while an exhibit by Yayoi Kusama complete with her famed Infinity Mirror Rooms will soon open. Designed in a hollow drum lifted 14 feet off the ground and surrounded by sculpture-filled gardens, the Hirshhorn is an ideal space to see contemporary art.

National Children's Museum Arrow

On Pennsylvania Avenue, just a few blocks from the National Mall, kids get a museum all about child's play (with some education snuck in too). Designed to appeal to toddlers up to elementary schoolers, this brand-new iteration of the National Children's Museum opened in February 2020. The Visiting Exhibit Hall highlights traveling exhibits for children from around the world, and this fall, kids will learn about the universe of Finnish cartoon characters the Moomins. Clips from cartoons are displayed, with Marimekko floor pillows to sit on and crafts to create. As with the rest of the museum, the lower-level space feels light and bright, with white paint everywhere and bursts of bright colors. Note that the first thing you will see as you enter the museum is the Dream Machine, a cloud-like, rigging-covered, three-story slide and climbing structure that kids can (and do) clamber up and slide down for an hour, if you let them.

National Gallery of Art Arrow

Perched near the U.S. Capitol Building, the National Gallery of Art is one of the most impressive museums in the city. Founded by Andrew W. Mellon, the museum comprises two buildings: the West Building, modeled after the Roman Pantheon, and the East Building, designed by modernist architect I.M. Pei. On a nice day, you could hardly do better than a stroll through the museum’s Sculpture Garden, which hosts jazz concerts in summer and an ice rink in winter. It also has the most classic collection in the city, with a focus mainly on European and American paintings, sculpture, prints, photographs, and other media. You’ll find a number of works from famed artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Johannes Vermeer, and Rembrandt, as well as later pieces from the likes of Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Jackson Pollock, and Roy Lichtenstein. The Sculpture Garden contains works by Marc Chagall and Joan Miró, as well as Robert Indiana's famous "AMOR."

National Museum of American History Arrow

The National Museum of American History's brief is all-encompassing: tell the story of America using a collection of more than 1.8 million historical objects. For a quick jaunt through the highlights, the museum suggests seeing the original Star-Spangled Banner, the lunch counter from Greensboro's famous sit-in during the Civil Rights movement, Dorothy's ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz,” Julia Child's exact kitchen, and Michelle Obama's inauguration dress in "The First Ladies" exhibit. Most exhibits are ongoing, but recent special exhibits include "Reckoning with Remembrance: History, Injustice, and the Murder of Emmett Till." In pre-pandemic times, this was school group field trip central—and a must-stop for tourist families as well. (Note that a number of exhibits are temporarily closed due to the pandemic, but are slated to return in late 2021.)

National Museum of Natural History Arrow

It’s impossible to miss the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Set on the National Mall, this 1910 Beaux-Arts building with a soaring rotunda is one of the most visited museums in D.C.—and the world—bringing in 4.2 million visitors in 2019. That’s for good reason: this museum has the world’s largest natural history collection with 146 million artifacts and specimens, including the ones at the recently reopened dinosaur hall.

Phillips Collection Arrow

In a town full of museum after-hours parties, the Phillips Collection's monthly "Phillips After 5" is one of the longest-running events of its kind and still hits it out of the park. For example, a party celebrating an exhibit with French post-Impressionist artist Pierre Bonnard partners up with the Embassy of France to bring in a live band, snacks like spring vegetable galettes with edible flowers, and a floral arranging workshop.

National Building Museum Arrow

In a city flush with stately—and historic—edifices, the National Building Museum, which is dedicated to architecture, engineering, and design, still manages to stand out. Built in the late 19th century as the headquarters of the United States Pension Bureau, the building was modeled after a Roman palace. Past exhibitions have explored a wide range of subjects: the secret U.S. cities that were erected with the development of the atom bomb; the lives of a low-income renters facing eviction; and the architectural innovations—such as tiny houses—that have evolved as America has changed. A new upcoming exhibition examines the U.S.-Mexico border wall through the lens of architecture and design. The best time to visit is in summer, when the Great Hall is transformed into an elaborate, immersive exhibition; say, a “beach” teeming with nearly one million plastic beach balls, a glacial sea of icebergs, or a 60-by-60-foot maze.

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Arrow

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is an important space for somber reflection. Set just off from the National Mall, this museum is a worthy stop for visitors, school groups, and locals alike who wish to join the museum in ensuring that the horrors of the Holocaust can never happen again. The permanent exhibition here takes you on a chronological journey from the rise of the Nazi party to the ghettoization and mass murder of Jews and, finally, to their liberation following the Allied victory. Beyond the permanent exhibition, other exhibitions allow visitors to explore topics such as America’s role in the Holocaust or how Burma's Muslim minority, the Rohingya , became targets of genocide.

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15 Best Museums in Washington, D.C.

Here are 15 of the best museums in Washington, D.C. to check out on your next trip to the capital.

The Washington Post/Contributor/Getty Images

The nation’s capital is home to beautiful government buildings, gardens, and more than 70 museums. The Smithsonian, the largest museum complex in the world, includes the National Zoo and 21 museums, and all are free for visitors, although some require timed reservations. And beyond the Smithsonian, other museums covering a wide range of interests are spread throughout Washington, D.C. with opportunities for enrichment, education, and entertainment.

If your last trip to Washington, D.C. was a class trip, it’s time for a return visit. Plush hotels, new restaurants, and lovely scenery make the nation’s capital a great vacation destination for visitors of all ages. Here are 15 of the best museums in Washington, D.C. to check out on your next trip to the capital. 

National Museum of African American History and Culture

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The newest addition to the Smithsonian , this museum tells the story of America through the lens of African American life, history, and culture. The eight-story museum commemorates historical figures and events in African American history, with priceless objects that include Harriett Tubman’s shawl, Nat Turner’s Bible, a cabin where people who were enslaved lived, and other objects that bring stories to life and encourage discussion and understanding. 

National Children’s Museum

This engaging museum encourages children to explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) through hands-on experiences. Video programs, experiments, and exhibits entertain and educate with fun for a wide range of ages. For infants and toddlers, a cloud and flight-themed area encourages movement and connection. “Weather Worlds” is an immersive digital experience that allows visitors to control weather with hand gestures that trigger everything from rain to tornadoes and blizzards. 

National Postal Museum

Opened in 1993, the National Postal Museum ’s exhibits and programs are focused on the preservation and study of postal history from colonial times to the present. The museum celebrates the beauty and lore of collecting stamps, and its William H. Gross Stamp Gallery is the world’s largest gallery dedicated to philately, with stunning displays of interest to both casual and experienced collectors. The website features a variety of hands-on activities and coloring pages for kids.

International Spy Museum

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This independent nonprofit museum holds the largest collection of international espionage artifacts on public display. Opened in 2002 to educate visitors on the shadow world of espionage and the changing role of technology in intelligence, the museum visit starts with a briefing film and stories of secret missions. Visitors can play the role of a spy with a new identity, badge, and undercover mission that is tracked as they travel through the museum, with a debriefing at the end.

National Portrait Gallery

Thousands of works at the National Portrait Gallery include visual, performance, and new media art depicting presidents, poets, film stars, scientists, and more. The Gallery strives to present a complete narrative, acknowledging the history of slavery, racism, and inequality in the United States. The collection ranges from pre-colonial times to the present, with a life-sized portrait of Abraham Lincoln, a collection of sports champions, and presidential portraits including those of former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama. 

President Lincoln’s Cottage

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This historic site and museum is located on 250 acres in the northwest Washington, D.C. neighborhood of Petworth. Abraham Lincoln actually lived in the cottage and developed the Emancipation Proclamation there. The cottage is open daily, and advance ticket purchase for guided tours is recommended. Self-guided landscape tours of the grounds and the Armed Forces Retirement Home are available. 

Heurich House Museum

The Heurich mansion was built in 1892-94 for German-American immigrant Christian Heurich, whose brewery was the largest in Washington, D.C. The city’s best-preserved example of Richardsonian Romanesque residential architecture, the mansion included many technological advancements of its era, including electric lighting, burglar alarms, and metal speaking tubes. Visitors can explore the lives of the family, household staff, brewery workers, and the craftspeople who built the home. Tours are available by reservation from Thursday through Saturday, and there’s a backyard biergarten.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

One of Washington’s most popular museums, the National Museum of Natural History celebrates the natural world, from dinosaurs to rare gems, mammals, sea life, plants, insects, and the history of the planet. More than 147 million specimens and artifacts make up the museum’s collection, and exhibits include the Butterfly Pavilion, Hall of Fossils, Eternal Life in Ancient Egypt, Nature Photography, Insect Zoo, and Bone Hall.

United States Botanic Garden

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Visitors can explore thousands of plants, both indoors and outdoors, in a variety of environments at the United States Botanic Garden . In the Garden Court, colorful flowers and foliage include plants that help create fibers, food, beverages, fuel, cosmetics, and more. A tropical forest, desert, primeval garden, and orchid collection of 3,000 specimens show the diversity of plant life. Plants native to Hawaii, the Mediterranean, and rainforests are there, along with medicinal and rare, endangered plants.

The Octagon Museum

Octagon Museum

Built between 1798 and 1800 by enslaved workers for a Virginia family, the building was designed by the first architect of the United States Capitol, William Thornton. The house served as temporary quarters for President Madison after the White House was burned in the War of 1812, and the Treaty of Ghent was signed there, ending the war. Recognizing the building’s national importance, the American Institute of Architects restored the building and established its national headquarters there, and visitors can now check out the museum .

National Air and Space Museum

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One of Washington’s most popular destinations, the museum features the largest collection of aviation and space artifacts in the world. Open every day (except Christmas Day), the museum offers two locations, one on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. and one in Virginia. Exhibits explore early flight, space travel, stories of the Tuskegee Airmen and the Wright Brothers, commercial aviation, the moon landing, the planets, and more. Free timed-entry passes are required.

National Museum of the American Indian

Opened in 2004, the museum features more than 825,000 photographs, documents, and artifacts telling the story of Native Americans from past to present. Exhibits include “Nation to Nation,” describing treaties between the United States and tribal governments. Another exhibit focuses on Native American images in history and contemporary life. The Mitsitam Cafe ( Mitsitam means “let’s eat!” in the Native language of the Delaware and Piscataway peoples) features Indigenous cuisines of the Americas and ingredients found in both traditional and contemporary dishes.

Planet Word Museum

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This museum opened in 2020, highlighting the power of words and language. Its interactive galleries and exhibits bring words to life and inspire a love of language through humor, puzzles, and games. As visitors enter, a Speaking Willow tree sculpture sets the stage as murmurs in hundreds of languages can be heard. Songwriting, advertising, poetry, jokes, and famous speeches are explored. Visit Lexicon Lane for clues to a puzzle, great for family and group fun.

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

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The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is dedicated to helping people understand what happened, so that it may never happen again. Recordings and testimonials from victims, witnesses, and survivors tell the tragic stories of the Holocaust (1933-1945), and according to its website , “The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum teaches millions of people each year about the dangers of unchecked hatred and the need to prevent genocide.” Nearly 50 holocaust survivors volunteer at the museum, sharing their personal histories and acting as tour guides. Free timed-entry tickets are required for museum visits.

National Bonsai Museum

Jeff Greenberg/Getty Images

The museum nurtures a collection of bonsai with special emphasis on specimens from Japan, China, and North America, in addition to providing education about bonsai. The Yee-sun Wy Chinese Pavilion houses the penjing (a scene or landscape in a container) collection, demonstrating an art form developed more than 1,000 years ago. The Japanese Pavilion contains masterpiece trees donated by the people of Japan in honor of the U.S. Bicentennial.

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ALERT: The National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Museum of American History will be CLOSED Tuesday, July 9, due to NATO meetings in Washington, D.C.

When you visit the Smithsonian, you’re entering the world’s largest museum complex, with approximately 157 million artifacts and specimens in its trust for the American people. Most of our museums are located in the Washington, D.C., area with two in New York City.

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With multiple museums and more than 250 exhibitions, it can be hard to know where to start. My Visit allows you to create a list of your "favorite" exhibitions and museums to help you make the most of your time with us.

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A Quick Trip Guide to Washington DC’s Museums

The sheer number of museums in Washington DC is overwhelming, especially if you are only there for a short visit. We’ll help you decide where you should go!

Washington DC is known for its vast number of world-class museums. Knowing which of DC’s 80+ museums you should visit can be challenging between visits to memorials and government buildings. Washington DC’s museums allow guests to explore science, history, culture, and art. It would be easy to spend an entire day or multiple days in any of those fantastic institutions. Here are some tips to help you decide which museums to visit and which to skip.

A general Washington DC tip: always check the websites of the places you want to see ahead of time to get a feel for their security procedures. Every location is different, and what you can and cannot bring in is not always intuitive. Additionally, rules about timed tickets and hours constantly change, so always check before you go!

The Smithsonian Institution

The story of how the Smithsonian came to be is in itself interesting. James Smithson, a British chemist who had never set foot on US soil, left his considerable fortune to the United States for the dispersion of knowledge. That founding gift has spawned 21 museums, most of which are in Washington DC. Besides being a famous historic institution in and of itself, these museums have the considerable advantage of being free to visit.

The most famous Smithsonian museums surround the National Mall between the United States Capitol and the Washington Monument. This makes it very easy to visit several museums in a single day.

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The most famous of these museums are the Museum of African American History and Culture, the Museum of American History, the Museum of Natural History, the Hirshhorn Museum, the Air and Space Museum, and the Museum of the American Indian.

The Museum of African American History and Culture

The Museum of African American History and Culture has several discrete sections that guests follow in a particular narrative direction. At the lowest level are the history galleries and a “contemplative court” to allow you to process the difficult history before returning to the present. The upper levels are dedicated to community, sports, the arts, and more. The Museum of African American History and Culture also has an excellent food court based on African American food culture.

The National Museum of American History

The National Museum of American History has extraordinarily varied exhibits. When you walk in, you are greeted with the entrance to see the famous “Star Spangled Banner,” responsible for the American national anthem. The Star Spangled Banner is worth seeing, if for no other reason, because the exhibit around it is fascinating. The rest of the museum you can pick and choose based on your interests. Some famous exhibits are the First Lady exhibit , the Greensboro lunch counter, and a revolving parade of notable popular culture items. Check their website or a map when you arrive to plan what you want to see because this place can suck you in.

The National Museum of Natural History

The National Museum of Natural History is famous for its dinosaur bones, the Hope Diamond, the butterfly pavilion, and a huge taxidermied elephant named Henry. The Natural History Museum is among the oldest of the Smithsonian Museums and, like its contemporaries, has many unethical items in its collection . They have worked to correct this by creating new exhibits that are more inclusive, such as the “African Voices” exhibit. If you just want to hit the big-name exhibits, they have those marked both on the map and when you enter.

The Hirshhorn Museum

The Hirshorn is one of several Smithsonian art museums. Its focus is on modern art, much of it by living artists. The museum itself is a piece of art with a circular building surrounding a courtyard. Around the outside of the building is a sculpture garden that is the perfect place to get a taste of the collection if you don’t want to dedicate much time to it. If you are a fan of modern art, though, this unique museum is worth spending some time in.

The National Museum of Air and Space

The National Museum of Air and Space was, until recently, woefully outdated. They have spent the last years updating their galleries to appeal to a younger audience again. While the museum still covers the familiar topics of early flight and humanity’s trips to the moon, its new exhibits focus more on the overall impact of air travel on our society and more recent discoveries about our universe.

The National Museum of the American Indian

The National Museum of the American Indian is dedicated to telling the stories of the Indigenous people of the United States, both past and present. Their Nation to Nation gallery covers the history of treaties between the United States and Indigenous nations . The remaining galleries focus on Indigenous people and nations’ modern struggles and triumphs. Indigenous artists and educators have frequent demonstrations and events in their central atrium.

The National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery is not on the National Mall, but it is worth a mention. It is two museums in one: a museum of American art and a portrait gallery of presidents and other notable Americans. Between the two buildings is a beautiful atrium that can be a much-needed respite from the busy streets of Washington DC.

The presidential portraits are fascinating, and it is fun to see how different presidents decided to present themselves. This is a niche museum, and most people skip it. That said, this is worth a stop if you are interested in portraiture and American art.

Government Buildings & Their Museums

Most people coming to Washington DC want to see the levers of power at work. The good news is that while the likelihood of seeing a famous politician is low (but not impossible), famous government buildings have some excellent museums to give you a more in-depth view of what happens in the three branches of government.

The White House & The White House Visitor Center

The White House Visitor Center isn’t in the White House proper, but it is very close by and worth the extra walk. Getting into the White House itself is a complicated and involved process. If you want tickets, contact your Member of Congress or your country’s embassy for help.

The White House itself can be viewed either from The Ellipse, north of Constitution Avenue or on the other side from Pennsylvania Avenue or Lafayette Square, depending on the level of security that day.

Once you get pictures of your family standing awkwardly in front of the several security fences surrounding the White House, head over to where Pennsylvania Avenue continues a few blocks down 15th Street to the Visitor Center.

The Visitor Center packs a lot of information into a tiny space. It is filled with artifacts and interpretive panels playing original videos on repeat. If you have zero interest in artifacts, this place probably isn’t worth the wait in line. They do a lot with very little, though, and getting in and out of the space won’t take long.

There is also a gift shop where you can buy the Presidential Seal on nearly anything you desire. This is perhaps not the most important thing, but their bathrooms are also very nice.

The National Archives Museum

What is a visit to Washington DC without seeing the Declaration of Independence? The Archives are often a high priority for people, but it can take an unreasonable amount of time just to get in.

The Archives is an exciting stop once you get in their doors. Not only do they have the Declaration of Independence , the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights on display, but they also have a copy of the Magna Carta and ever-changing exhibits on the rest of their collection.

The trick with the Archives is to book timed tickets ahead of time. If none are available, just keep an eye on the building for times when the line isn’t around the block. First thing in the morning is usually a good bet, but depending on group tours, that isn’t a sure thing.

The United States Capitol & Visitor Center

While most people go to the Capitol to take a tour with professional, red-coated guides or an intern from their representative’s office, there is much to see in the visitor center without a ticket.

Once you get through the extensive security to enter the underground visitor center, walk down the stairs to the main hall and towards the gigantic statue of a lady with an eagle on her head. That statue is among many in the visitor center and the larger Capitol complex. Her name is “Freedom,” and she is the model used for the bronze version standing on the Capitol dome.

Many signs about her history surround her, but it is not unusual to also see an educator nearby eager to chat about the history of the building and the legislation written there.

Behind Freedom is the actual museum. This museum is an often overlooked but well-constructed exploration of the architecture of the Capitol building and the history of the Legislative branch.

The Library of Congress Jefferson Building

After touring the Capitol Building, follow the signs for the tunnel to the Library of Congress. If you go outside to enter, you must go through security again.

The Library of Congress was built to be a temple of learning, and the ornate space certainly delivers on that. Everywhere you look, there is a dizzying display of carvings, mosaics, and murals representing America and Humankind’s artistic and academic achievements.

It is worth going into the building just to view the great hall, but there is a lot more to see than that. During certain hours, you can enter the main reading room. There are also ever-changing exhibits on the various levels of the building. It is easy to get lost, but it is worth the wander if you have the time. There are few places in the world where you might stumble across a Gutenberg Bible and Thomas Jefferson’s personal collection, but this is one of them!

Supreme Court of the United States

The Supreme Court rounds out the places of interest on Capitol Hill. They have rotating exhibitions about the court’s history and how the judicial system works. You can see where the Supreme Court sits when the court is not in session. Check their website ahead of time for their schedule.

This one is great if you are excited about seeing the Supreme Court, but if you are uninterested or short of time, it is also fine to miss.

Arlington National Cemetery

While technically not in Washington DC, Arlington National Cemetery is accessible from the DC Metro or a moderate walk across the river from the Lincoln Memorial.

Arlington National Cemetery is the most famous US military cemetery and is very moving. Spending a whole day here would be easy, especially if you get lost. It is worth grabbing a map or pulling up the cemetery on your favorite map app to navigate. If you can, walking is the best way to get around, but there is a shuttle for those unable to walk up the hill.

The main sights people usually want to see are John F. Kennedy’s (JFK) grave, Arlington House, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

You will head straight up the hill from the visitors’ center to see JFK’s grave. JFK’s grave is a complex of Massachusetts Marble and the graves of John F Kennedy’s family and brothers. Once you see the eternal flame, follow the path on the left to see Robert, Edward, and a memorial marker for Joseph.

The access to the Arlington house is most accessible up the stairs found when you follow Sheraton Drive to the West. The view from the house is spectacular and worth the hike up there. There are bathrooms up there, and it can be an interesting stop when the house is open. Before it was a cemetery, Arlington was the plantation of Robert E. Lee, and that history is memorialized in and around the house.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is south of the house, and JFK’s grave—a lovely, tree-lined footpath cuts from the house to the tomb. The changing of guard schedule changes depending on the time of year, so check the website or with a staff member when you arrive. During the busy months (March-August), getting to the tomb as early as possible is a good idea if you want to have any choice in your viewing position. It gets very crowded very fast.

There are also bathrooms under the amphitheater, next to the Tomb Sentinel living area for their 24-hour shifts. Behind the amphitheater, you can also find the Challenger Memorial and the mast of the USS Maine .

If you plan carefully and stay on the path, it is possible to hit these big Arlington spots in an hour to an hour and a half, but most people will take at least half a day here.

Historic Sites & Museums

Besides the Smithsonian Museums and government buildings, there are plenty of historic sites and museums in and around Washington DC to enjoy. Here are some top picks.

The Petersen House – Ford’s Theater

Ford’s Theater, with the Petersen House across the street, is still a working theater and a memorial museum to President Abraham Lincoln. If you go during the day, depending on your ticket type, you will have time to explore their underground museum about Lincoln and his assassination. The museum has some interesting artifacts, but you are usually stuck down there longer than most people need to get through it.

Once through the museum, the rangers open the door, allowing you into the theater proper. If there is a ranger talk, they will talk about the history of the building and the assassination. Depending on who is telling the story, this can be fun or boring.

After the story, you are sent across the street to stand in line to see the Petersen House, where Lincoln died.

If you are excited about Lincoln, this is worth seeing, but with the many lines, it is a time-sink for those who are not as interested. It is advised to instead buy a ticket to see a show at Ford’s Theater. The shows happen on the stage that John Wilkes Booth jumped onto after firing his shot, and the famous box that held the president is clearly marked with bunting and can be seen from nearly anywhere in the theater.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is a half-hour drive outside of DC, but it seems wrong not to include it in a DC guide.

Mount Vernon was George Washington’s plantation and is now a huge museum about him, his legacy, the legacy of enslavement, and a working farm. There is something for everyone here.

This site is a half or full-day experience with the drive, but there is much to see here. Besides touring Washington’s home, you can see a variety of garden styles Washington would have had in his lifetime. There are a variety of displays and buildings talking about the experience of the enslaved people , as well as living historians wandering around telling those stories.

There are also plenty of farm animals, a museum, and a stunning view of the Potomac River. If you have the time to dedicate, this is a charming stop.

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

Located just off the National Mall, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum includes a profoundly impactful permanent exhibition and several changing exhibits. If you are traveling during a busy time of year, it is a good idea to try to get timed tickets for the permanent exhibition ahead of time.

That said, even without tickets, there is plenty to see. There is a small exhibit called “Daniel’s Story” that explains the lead-up to the Holocaust and is geared toward a younger audience. There are also exhibits about the history of antisemitism and other genocides around the world.

This museum is an intense visit and can take a few hours, but it is filled with artifacts and information.

Additional Places of Note

These museums and famous sites did not fit in with the rest of the categories, but they are notable and worth a visit!

The United States Botanic Garden

It is amazing how many plants they squeeze into the Botanic Garden, sitting at the foot of Capitol Hill. Something interesting is always happening here, whether it is a cooking demonstration or a docent explaining where chocolate comes from.

This isn’t the sort of Botanic Garden where you are expected just to look at plants from afar. This garden works hard to make its exhibits engaging and hands-on. There usually isn’t a line to see this, making it a good, quick stop between other activities.

International Spy Museum

There are few things kids in DC love more than the Spy Museum. When you enter the exhibit, actors give you an “undercover identity” and a “mission” to follow as you explore the museum.

The exhibits are a mix of real-life spy gadgets and stories and memorable artifacts from spy movies like James Bond. There are also many interactive exhibits where guests can try their hand at spy skills like codebreaking and how to make sense of covertly gathered information.

If you have a young person with you who is perhaps less than enthusiastic about all the memorials and history, this is a good release valve for them. They might even learn something without realizing it!

National Gallery of Art

While not a Smithsonian museum, the National Gallery of Art on the National Mall’s extensive collections are free. With two buildings and an outside sculpture garden, there is plenty here to entertain an art lover.

If you love art and want to make a fast stop here, look at what is on display ahead of time. The sculpture garden is lovely if you are just looking for a nice art experience without too much time spent. There is also a cafe and fountain where you can take a break from the art.

Who Wore the Pants? 5 American First Ladies & Their Roles

By Fayge Horesh BA History with Honors 'Phi Alpha Theta' Fayge is a public historian and teacher, certified tour guide, and contributing writer. She is the creator and host of the podcast “D Listers of History.” On the podcast, Fayge brings her research skills, curiosity, and irreverence to discuss important but mostly forgotten historical figures. In all the work Fayge does, their primary goal is to make both historical stories and the study of history accessible to everyone. Fayge also teaches private music lessons in the greater Philadelphia area and only sometimes sneaks history in between etudes.

Frequently Read Together

Surprising Results of The British Museum’s Internal Investigation

Manifest Destiny: The Doctrine that Shaped 19th-Century America

The National Portrait Gallery Makeover

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Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Washington, D.C. Airports

Neighborhoods to Know

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48-Hour Itinerary

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Top Things to Do

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Things to Do With Kids

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Top Museums

Best 14 Washington, D.C. Museums

Washington, D.C. has dozens of wonderful museums that will appeal to virtually any traveler's interests. From large publicly funded institutions to small historic homes, get ready to learn a great deal and find some welcome surprises when you visit many of DC’s museums—and bonus, all of the Smithsonian Institution museums are blissfully free to the public. 

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Victoria Chamberlain / TripSavvy 

There is something for everyone at this world-renowned museum. Natural history appeals to all ages and there are so many artifacts that you can’t possibly see them all in one visit. The dinosaur exhibits are fascinating and great for kids. The Family Hall of Mammals is especially fun to explore as well as the Sant Ocean Hall. Then there's the cinematography and scenery in the IMAX films  that's so stunning you'll wish you had time to see them all.

Visiting Tips: This is the most popular Washington, D.C. museum for families. Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds. Purchase IMAX tickets in advance or as soon as you arrive. If you are visiting with kids, be sure to see the Discovery Room where there are lots of hands-on activities. Allow at least 2-3 hours.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Victoria Chamberlain / TripSavvy

This fabulous museum gives visitors a close-up view of air and space travel with 22 exhibition galleries, displaying hundreds of artifacts including the original Wright 1903 Flyer, the "Spirit of St. Louis," and the Apollo 11 command module. Some of the favorite exhibits include "How Things Fly," "The Wright Brother and the Invention of the Aerial Age," and "Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall." The IMAX films are great for all ages.

Visiting Tips: This is one of the busiest Washington, D.C. museums. Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds. Purchase IMAX tickets in advance or as soon as you arrive. Allow at least 2-3 hours. There’s also an annex location near Dulles International Airport,​ The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center , which can be easier to get to from the suburbs and is usually not as crowded as the National Mall location.

U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum

The museum is a memorial to the millions of Jews who died during the Nazi regime in Germany during World War II. The exhibits tell the horrific story of genocide and teach the dangers of hatred and prejudice. Visiting this museum is an emotional experience so be sure that you have enough time and stamina. The permanent exhibits are not recommended for children under 11 years old. There is a separate exhibit for ages 8 and up that tells the story of the Holocaust through the eyes of a young boy.

Visiting Tips: Free Timed Passes are required for the permanent exhibit. Timed passes are distributed for the same day on a first come, first served basis. Allow 2-3 hours.

Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens

The home of George Washington is often overlooked by visitors because it is located outside of the city. It is a “must see” attraction. If you visited years ago, it is worth a second look. The estate is set along the shores of the Potomac River and is the most scenic tourist attraction in the Washington, D.C. area. The historic mansion is restored and decorated as it was when Washington lived there. The museum and education center features 25 state-of-the-art galleries and theaters that tell the story of Washington's life. This is a great attraction and has plenty of interactive activities for the whole family.

Visiting Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds. Visit the Mansion first as it is usually the most crowded. Be sure to take time to wander the grounds and check out the scenic views. Check the schedule for special programming. Sign up ahead for a guided tour or attend a special event. Allow at least 4 hours.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History

See national treasures from Julia Child's kitchen to First Ladies' dresses at this museum that safeguards more than 3 million artifacts. The original Star-Spangled Banner flag is one of the most popular attractions.

Visiting Tips: Check out the museum's calendar to find out about any daily programming events. Rent an audio guide to explore the museum's new wing "The Nation We Build Together" with narration from the likes of Madeleine Albright and Colin Powell. Or download free self-guided tours here to use on your smartphone.

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

For cutting-edge modern and contemporary art, don't miss the Hirshhorn. It's a Smithsonian museum located in a stunning, drum-shaped building. After walking the gallery, head downstairs to the gift shop and Barbara Kruger's installation, which fills the Lower Level lobby.

Visiting Tips:  Free 45-minute tours are available every daily at at 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Meet a Gallery Guide at the lobby information desk at that time if you're interested. Or hang out in local coffee chain Dolcezza's new cafe in the refreshed lobby space, designed by artist Hiroshi Sugimoto and unveiled in 2018. 

National Gallery of Art

This sprawling museum spans two buildings, with an East and West Wing and countless priceless artworks from Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, John Singleton Copley, Johannes Vermeer, Vincent van Gogh, Henri Matisse and more famed artists. 

Visiting Tips: Check out the schedule of daily, free docent-led tours here . Starting in May through the end of August, relax in the museum's gorgeous sculpture garden and enjoy performances from the "Jazz in the Garden" series.

The Phillips Collection

Dupont Circle's The Phillips Collection is not to be missed for art lovers, with pieces by Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, Winslow Homer, Georgia O'Keeffe, Pablo Picasso, and Vincent van Gogh. The Rothko Room with four paintings by abstract expressionist Mark Rothko is a particular favorite.

Visiting Tips:  Tickets run from $8 to $12 per visitor, and visitors age 18 and under are free. The first Thursday of every month is "Phillips after 5," a popular event that runs from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. (buy tickets in advance if you can). 

National Museum of African American History and Culture

TripSavvy / Victoria Chamberlain

The newest Smithsonian museum, this moving 400,000-square-foot chronicles the African American experience with more than 37,000 artifacts in its collection. That includes Nat Turner's bible, a WWII plane used by the Tuskegee Airmen, and a dress worn worn by Rosa Parks. 

Visiting Tips: More than 3.5 million visitors have walked through the doors since opening. Since the museum is so popular, most visitors snag timed entry passes, although a limited number of walk-up passes are available .

National Museum of the American Indian

Explore The Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI)'s collections of Native artifacts, housed in a striking curved building surrounded by indigenous landscaping.

Visiting Tips:  The museum's acclaimed Mitsitam Cafe is a favorite for tourists on the National Mall, where you'll find Native foods like corn totopos and fry bread along with modern takes on traditional dishes like buffalo burgers.

International Spy Museum

Kids love looking at spy gadgets and cameras at the International Spy Museum, not to mention the interactive spy missions you can try out here. The museum is planning a move to a high-tech new building at L’Enfant Plaza soon. 

Visiting Tips:  Tickets for the museum start at $22.95 for adults, $16.95 for seniors, and $14.95 for children ages 7 to 11, and children under 6 are free. See all the admission prices on their website .

The National Archives

Visit the National Archives' Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom, which is home of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights.

Visiting Tips: Reservations aren't required to enter the National Archives Museum through the General Public Entrance. But the museum strongly suggests making a reservation between March and Labor Day to avoid potentially long lines outside.

Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery

 Taylor McIntyre / TripSavvy

See presidential portraits at this Smithsonian museum, including newly-revealed paintings of former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama. Besides portraits of influential Americans, don't miss the serene glass-ceilinged Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard.

Visiting Tips:  The Portrait Gallery shares its grand building with the Smithsonian American Art Museum, so combine two museums in one trip. 

Freer|Sackler

Asia meets America is the theme for these two Smithsonian museums on the National Mall. The Freer includes James McNeill Whistler's famed Peacock Room, while both museums include masterpieces of Asian art.

Visiting Tips:  Download the Freer Thinking Audio App , which uses your location on your phone to alert you to museum highlights.

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Museums in Washington DC

The Complete List (2024)

Washington DC museums are among the best in the world, and include Woodrow Wilson House , Woman's National Democratic Club Museum, and dozens more institutions.

Below, we've researched and compiled a list of museums in Washington DC, plus categories like:

• 🏛️ all museums
• 🏆 best museums
• 👐 free museums
• 🎉 fun museums
• 🔥 must see museums
• 😎 cool museums
• 👾 weird museums
• 🎨 art museums
• 🐙 science museums
• 🗿 history museums

And everything in-between. How many museums are there in Washington DC? As of 2024, our list includes 74 awesome museums.

Museum Categories

Best museums, textile museum, the phillips collection, national portrait gallery, national museum of african american history and culture, national geographic museum, national gallery of art, national building museum, national bonsai foundation, national archives museum, lincoln memorial, hirshhorn museum and sculpture garden, hillwood estate, museum & gardens, frederick douglass national historic site, ford's theatre, folger shakespeare library, dumbarton oaks research library and collection, free museums, white house, washington monument, united states holocaust memorial museum, united states capitol, national museum of the us navy, tudor place, the octagon house, smithsonian american art museum, belmont-paul women's equality national monument, scottish rite temple and supreme council library, saint john paul ii national shrine, s. dillon ripley center, renwick gallery, old stone house, national postal museum, national museum of the american indian, smithsonian national museum of natural history, national museum of american jewish military history, national museum of american history, national museum of african art, national guard memorial museum, mary mcleod bethune council house national historic site, library of congress, laogai museum, l. ron hubbard house, interior museum, howard university art gallery, historical society of washington, d.c., national deaf life museum at gallaudet university, freer gallery of art, decatur house, charles sumner school, arthur m. sackler gallery, art museum of the americas, larz anderson house, anacostia community museum, american university museum, african american civil war memorial museum, national air and space museum, fun museums, o street museum, madame tussauds, must see museums, the wilderness society gallery, national museum of women in the arts, cool museums, international spy museum, heurich house museum, weird museums, art museums, kreeger museum, george washington university art galleries, science museums, history museums, woodrow wilson house, woman's national democratic club museum, president lincoln's cottage, museum of the bible, lillian & albert small jewish museum, german-american heritage museum of the usa, general federation of women's clubs headquarters, dumbarton house, clara barton missing soldiers office, all museums in washington dc.

Historic Site

The Woodrow Wilson House was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964. It was the home of the 28th President of the United States, Woodrow Wilson after he left office until 1924 when he passed away in an upstairs bedroom. The House is shown by guided tour of the hour; tours take approximately one hour.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Woodrow Wilson House .

• Helen Zughaib: Migrations
• Art at Wilson House: Wilson and the World
• The Ghost Fleet of Mallows Bay
• 🎟️ $10 per person
• 📍 2340 S St NW, Washington, DC 20008

Specialty Museum

The Woman's National Democratic Club Museum (WNDC) is located two blocks from Dupont Circle station. The museum is housed in a landmark 19th-century residence. Interior features include the Arts and Crafts foyer and stairwell, and an elaborate plaster ceiling in the former music room. The WNDC museum displays political campaign memorabilia, portraits, photographs, political cartoons, antique furnishings in handsomely appointed rooms, and art exhibits. Public tours are by appointment only.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Woman's National Democratic Club Museum.

• Arts and Crafts foyer
• Elaborate plaster ceiling
• Political campaign memorabilia
• 🎟️ $-- per person
• 📍 1526 New Hampshire Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20036

The White House is the official residence and workplace of the president of the United States. Public tours include the Blue Room, Red Room and Green Room; the State Dining Room; the China Room; and a view of the White House Rose Garden. Touring the White House takes some advanced planning. All public tour requests must be submitted through one’s Member of Congress up to three months in advance and no less than 21 days prior to your visit.

Here are some of the "must see" items at White House.

• State Dining Room
• 🎟️ $0 per person
• 📍 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20500

The Washington Monument, built to commemorate George Washington, is a 555-foot tall marble obelisk located on the National Mall. It was the tallest structure in the world between 1884 and 1889 (it was overtaken by the Eiffel Tower in Paris). Timed tickets are required to ride the elevator to the 500-foot observation deck.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Washington Monument.

• Observation deck
• Memorial stones
• 📍 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) is located adjacent to the National Mall. The USHMM is dedicated to the documentation, study, and interpretation of Holocaust history. The main exhibit spans three floors and offers a chronological narrative of the Holocaust through historical artifacts, photographs, and film footage.

Here are some of the "must see" items at United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

• Permanent Exhibition: The Holocaust
• Americans and the Holocaust
• American Witnesses
• 📍 100 Raoul Wallenberg Pl SW, Washington, DC 20024

The United States Capitol is both a monument and a working office building. You'll enter the building through the Capitol Visitor Center which is open to visitors from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. The Capitol Visitor Center hosts rotating temporary exhibitions, interactive programs, and offers walking tours.

Here are some of the "must see" items at United States Capitol.

• Architectural Models
• Table from President Lincoln’s second inauguration
• Visit the interpretive carts
• 📍 First St SE, Washington, DC 20004

The National Museum of the United States Navy is located in the former Breech Mechanism Shop of the old Naval Gun Factory on the grounds of the Washington Navy Yard. The museum is dedicated to collecting, preserving, displaying, and interpreting historic naval artifacts and artwork.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Museum of the US Navy.

• Dive! Dive! U.S. Navy Submarines
• The American Revolution and the French Alliance
• The Forgotten Wars of the Nineteenth Century
• 📍 736 Sicard St SE, Washington, DC 20374

Tudor Place is a Federal-style mansion. It was originally the home of Martha Washington's granddaughter, Martha Parke Custis Peter, and her husband Thomas Peter. The museum archive holds a collection of 5,000 books and a Manuscript Collection that includes early land records, maps, photographs, moving pictures, diaries, household receipts, correspondence, and one of only three letters extant from George to Martha Washington. The House is shown by guided tour only however, garden visits are self-guided and available whenever the museum is open.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Tudor Place.

• The Washington Collection
• A portrait miniature of President Washington
• 1775 letter in which General Washington notified his wife of his appointment to lead the Continental Army
• 📍 1644 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007

The Wilderness Society Gallery, located on the first floor of The Wilderness Society’s national headquarters building in Washington DC, is home to an in-depth collection of Ansel Adams photographs. Ansel Adams, the world-famous landscape Photographer, was a Wilderness Society council member.

Here are some of the "must see" items at The Wilderness Society Gallery.

• The Ansel Adams Collection
• 📍 1615 M Street NW Washington, D.C.

The Octagon House is located in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, DC. In 1898, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) established The Octagon as its national headquarters. In the 1970s, The Octagon was opened to the public as a museum.

Here are some of the "must see" items at The Octagon House.

• Without Regard to Sex, Race or Color
• Architecture and history exhibits
• 📍 1799 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC 20006

The Textile Museum is located within George Washington University. The museum's collection includes more than 19,000 objects and spans 5,000 years, dating from 3,000 B.C.E. to the present. They have one of the most important research collections of Oriental carpets in the world.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Textile Museum.

• Woven Interiors: Furnishing Early Medieval Egypt
• Fast Fashion/Slow Art
• Textiles 101
• 🎟️ $8 per person
• 📍 701 21st St NW, Washington, DC 20052

Together, the Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) and branch museum, the Renwick Gallery, house one of the world's largest and most inclusive collections of American art, from the colonial period to the present. Significant artists represented in its collection include Nam June Paik, Jenny Holzer, David Hockney, Georgia O'Keeffe, John Singer Sargent, and many more.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Smithsonian American Art Museum.

• Picturing the American Buffalo: George Catlin and Modern Native American Artists
• Galleries for Folk and Self-Taught Art
• Sculpture Down to Scale: Models for Public Art at Federal Buildings, 1974–1985
• 📍 F St NW &, 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004

The Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument is a historic house and museum located in the Capitol Hill. It was built in 1800. In the 20th century, the house became the headquarters of the National Woman’s Party, a political movement that fought for equal rights for women. The monument is named after suffragists and National Woman's Party leaders Alva Belmont and Alice Paul.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument.

• Bust of NWP co-founder Alice Paul
• Susan B. Anthony’s desk
• 📍 144 Constitution Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

The House of the Temple, located in the Dupont Circle neighborhood, is a Masonic temple that serves as the headquarters of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdiction, U.S.A. Guided tours are free.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Scottish Rite Temple and Supreme Council Library.

• President Truman’s 33rd degree collar
• Main Library
• George Washington Banquet Hall
• 📍 1733 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20009

The Saint John Paul II National Shrine is a place of prayer for Catholics and welcomes people of all faiths. The Shrine houses a permanent exhibit called "A Gift of Love: the Life of Saint John Paul II" which highlights significant events in the life of Pope John Paul II and his momentous influence. The shrine is also home to the Redemptor Hominis Church and Luminous Mysteries Chapel, both of which are decorated with mosaic art.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Saint John Paul II National Shrine.

• A Gift of Love: the Life of Saint John Paul II
• Relic of St. John Paul II’s blood
• 📍 3900 Harewood Rd NE, Washington, DC 20017

The S. Dillon Ripley Center, a Smithsonian Institution, is located in the National Mall. The above-ground portion is only a small copper-domed pagoda. Underground it houses the Smithsonian Associates, the Discovery Theater, and the Smithsonian Traveling Exhibition Service, as well as, a conference center, an art gallery, meeting/classrooms, and exhibition space. It connects to the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, the National Museum of African Art, and the Freer Gallery of Art.

Here are some of the "must see" items at S. Dillon Ripley Center.

• Changing exhibitions
• The Smithsonian Associates
• Discovery Theater
• 📍 1100 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560

The Renwick Gallery is a branch of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. The Gallery is located just steps from the White House in the heart of historic federal Washington, DC. Its collection and exhibitions focus on American craft and decorative arts from the 19th to the 21st century.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Renwick Gallery.

• Ginny Ruffner: Reforestation of the Imagination
• Michael Sherrill Retrospective
• Connections: Contemporary Craft at the Renwick Gallery
• 📍 1661 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20006

President Lincoln's Cottage, also known as President Lincoln and Soldiers’ Home National Monument, is located in the Petworth neighborhood of Northwest Washington, DC. To escape both the DC heat and political pressures, President Abraham Lincoln and his family stayed in the cottage seasonally.

Here are some of the "must see" items at President Lincoln's Cottage.

• Lincoln’s Slippers return to the Cottage!
• American by Belief
• originALs: Ronald Reagan’s 1986 Immigration Act
• 🎟️ $15 per person
• 📍 140 Rock Creek Church Rd NW, Washington, DC 20011

The Phillips Collection was founded in 1921 as the Phillips Memorial Gallery. It is located in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC. The museum's permanent collection consists of 3,000 works by American and European impressionist and modern artists.

Here are some of the "must see" items at The Phillips Collection.

• Luncheon of the Boating Party by Pierre-Auguste Renoir
• The Repentant St. Peter by El Greco
• Time and Timelessness (The Spirit of Creation) by Augustus Vincent Tack
• 🎟️ $12 per person
• 📍 1600 21st St NW, Washington, DC 20009

Built in 1765, the Old Stone House is the oldest unchanged building in Washington, DC. It is an example of vernacular architecture. Today the kitchen, parlor, and bedrooms are furnished as they would have been in the late 18th century.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Old Stone House .

• The kitchen's hearth
• A clock believed to have been made by John Suter Jr.
• Carved wooden mantle
• 📍 3051 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Private Museum

The O Street Museum focuses on exploring the creative process. The museum is made up of five interconnected townhouses that include over 100 rooms and 32 secret doors. The collection contains 15,000 pieces of art, 20,000 books, architecture, manuscripts, music, and memorabilia.

Here are some of the "must see" items at O Street Museum.

• Paintings by Kurt Wenner
• Signed scripts of the Academy Award winning trilogy Lord of the Rings
• Letters and drawings by John Lennon
• 🎟️ $0+ per person
• 📍 2016 O St NW, Washington, DC 20036

The Newseum has seven levels, 15 theaters, and 15 galleries. It is an interactive museum that promotes free expression and the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. The museum's exhibits include the 9/11 Gallery, "which displays the broadcast antennae from the top of the World Trade Center; the Berlin Wall Gallery, whose eight concrete sections are one of the largest displays of the original wall outside Germany; and the Pulitzer Prize Photographs Gallery, which features photographs from every Pulitzer Prize-winning entry dating back to 1942."

Here are some of the "must see" items at Newseum.

• 9/11 Gallery
• Berlin Wall Gallery
• Pulitzer Prize Photographs Gallery
• 🎟️ $25 per person
• 📍 555 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001

The National Postal Museum is located in the historic City Post Office Building. The building was constructed in 1914 and served as the Washington, DC post office from 1914 to 1986. The museum’s galleries display America’s postal history from Colonial times to the present. The museum's collections contain prestigious U.S. and international postal issues and specialized collections, archival postal documents and 3-D objects.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Postal Museum.

• Moving the Mail
• The William H. Gross Stamp Gallery
• Systems at Work
• 📍 2 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

Established in 1962 by Congress, the National Portrait Gallery has a mission “to tell the story of America by portraying the people who shape the nation’s history, development and culture. Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Portrait Gallery shares a building with the American Art Museum (also owned and curated by the Smithsonian).

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Portrait Gallery.

• Gilbert Stuart’s “Lansdowne” painting of George Washington
• The “cracked-plate” portrait of Abraham Lincoln by Alexander Gardner
• Andy Warhol’s portrait of Michael Jackson
• 📍 8th St. NW & F St. NW, Washington, DC 20001

The National Museum of Women in the Arts is "the only major museum in the world solely dedicated to championing women through the arts." The museum hosts diverse temporary exhibitions and is home to a collection of 4,500 artworks by more than 1,000 women artists.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Museum of Women in the Arts.

• Ulysses by Friederun Friederichs
• Fisher Woman in Profile by Anna Ancher
• Seated Woman with Hat by Isabel Bishop
• 📍 1250 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005

The National Museum of the American Indian is part of the Smithsonian Institution. The museum's architecture, landscaping, and exhibitions were all designed in collaboration with tribes and communities from across the hemisphere in order to advance both knowledge and understanding of the Native cultures of the Western Hemisphere.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Museum of the American Indian.

• The Great Inka Road: Engineering an Empire
• Nation to Nation: Treaties Between the United States and American Indian Nations
• Our Universes: Traditional Knowledge Shapes Our World
• 📍 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560

Natural History Museum

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History's collection contains over 145 million specimens of plants, animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, human remains, and human cultural artifacts. The collection and exhibitions both "tell the history of the planet and are a record of human interaction with the environment and one another."

Here are some of the "must see" items at Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

• African Bush Elephant
• Butterfly Pavilion
• David H. Koch Hall of Fossils - Deep Time
• 📍 10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560

The National Museum of American Jewish Military History was founded in 1958. The museum "documents and preserves the contributions of Jewish Americans to the peace and freedom of the United States, educates the public concerning the courage, heroism and sacrifices made by Jewish Americans who served in the armed forces, and works to combat anti-Semitism."

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Museum of American Jewish Military History.

• Jews in the American Military
• Hall of Heroes: American Jewish Recipients of the Medal of Honor
• Major General Julius Klein: His Life and Work
• 📍 1811 R St NW, Washington, DC 20009

History Museum

The National Museum of American History "is home to more than 1.8 million objects and more than three shelf-miles of archival collections" regarding the heritage of the United States in the areas of social, political, cultural, scientific, and military history. The museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution and located on the National Mall.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Museum of American History.

• Original Star-Spangled Banner
• Abraham Lincoln’s top hat
• First artificial heart
• 📍 1300 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560

The National Museum of African Art, located on the National Mall, is a Smithsonian Institution. The Museum currently has 11,861 objects from both Sub-Saharan and Arab North Africa in its collection, of which 10,746 are traditional and 1,115 contemporary. Its objects range from 15th-century sculptures and masks to multi-media contemporary art, and the photographs from photojournalists Eliot Elisofon and Constance Stuart Larrabee.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Museum of African Art.

• Africa ReViewed: the photographic legacy of Eliot Elisofon
• African Cosmos: Stellar Arts
• African Textiles
• 📍 950 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is a Smithsonian Institution museum located on the National Mall. It is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. About 3,500 items are currently on display to the public from the museum's large collection of over 40,000 objects.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Museum of African American History and Culture.

• Items from the São José Paquete Africa
• Items owned by Harriet Tubman
• Feet and wrist manacles
• 📍 1400 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560

The National Guard Memorial Museum is a military museum located in northwestern Washington, DC. It houses six galleries relating to the National Guard of the United States: Militia Era, The National Guard Comes of Age, The Citizen Soldier in World War II, Cold War Era, National Guard in the Modern Era, and Closing Sequence.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Guard Memorial Museum.

• Brown Bess musket
• Militia order
• Military equipment and personal items
• 📍 One Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001

The National Geographic Museum showcases rotating exhibitions featuring the work of their explorers, photographers, and scientists, as well as, exhibitions on natural history, culture, history, and society. The museum's collection and exhibitions include iconic photography, world-famous artifacts, interactive learning stations, and behind-the-scenes stories.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Geographic Museum.

• National Geographic: Exploration Starts Here
• Women: A Century of Change
• Pottery that Jacques Cousteau recovered from a shipwreck
• 📍 1145 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036

When the NGA first opened in 1941, the collection consisted entirely of Andrew W. Mellon’s personal collection of artworks, including 126 paintings and 26 sculptures. Today the National Gallery of Art is home to exhibits spanning some 124 thousand works by more than 13 thousand artists from the Renaissance to present day!

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Gallery of Art.

• Ginevra de' Benci by Leonardo da Vinci
• The Portrait of Countess Ebba Sparre - Suspected Lover of a Queen
• Little Dancer by Degas
• 📍 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20565

The National Building Museum is dedicated to educating the public on the impact of architecture, design, engineering, construction, and urban planning. The museum offers exhibitions, educational programs, and special events for all ages.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Building Museum.

• Animals, Collected
• Flickering Treasures
• House & Home
• 📍 401 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001

The National Bonsai Foundation is the world's first museum devoted to Bonsai. The museum is located on the grounds of the U.S. National Arboretum in Northeast Washington, DC. The museum has four collections -- the Japanese, the Chinese, the North American, and the Viewing Stone.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Bonsai Foundation.

• The Japanese Collection
• The Chinese Collection
• The Viewing Stone Collection
• 📍 3501 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

The National Archives Building is located north of the National Mall. It houses the original copies of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. You'll find these documents and more in the main chamber of the National Archives, the Rotunda.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Archives Museum .

• Declaration of Independence
• Constitution
• Bill of Rights
• 📍 700 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20408

The Museum of the Bible documents the narrative, history, and impact of the Bible. The museum's 40,000 objects and artifacts are divided among six floors each highlighting a different aspect of the Bible's history and impact.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Museum of the Bible.

• Rare printed Bibles
• Torah scrolls
• Biblical papyri
• 📍 400 4th St SW, Washington, DC 20024

The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site is located in Northwest Washington, DC. Mary McLeod Bethune was a world-renowned educator, civil rights champion, leader of women, and presidential adviser. She was the first African American woman to hold so high an office in the federal government. Today the house museum features permanent and changing exhibits interpreting her life and black women's history. It is open to the public for tours on Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site.

• A three-story Victorian townhouse
• A two-story carriage house
• 📍 1318 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005

Madame Tussauds is an internationally famous wax museum. The location in DC is the 12th venue worldwide. The collection, of course, includes wax sculptures of famous figures from politics, culture, sports, music, and television. The DC location has more waxworks of political figures than any other location.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Madame Tussauds.

• Presidents Gallery
• Civil Rights Room
• Glamour Room
• 🎟️ $22+ per person
• 📍 1001 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004

The Lincoln Memorial is located on the western end of the National Mall across from the Washington Monument. The interior is divided into three chambers (north, south, and central). While the central chamber houses the statue of Lincoln, the north and south side chambers contain carved inscriptions of his Second Inaugural Address and Gettysburg Address.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Lincoln Memorial.

• Frieze and Cornice
• 📍 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20037

The new Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum will open just blocks from the US Capitol in 2021. The new museum's exhibition galleries will explore the past, present, and future of Jewish Washington. The historic synagogue will be the centerpiece of the new museum.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Lillian & Albert Small Jewish Museum.

• Hand-knit lace collar worn on the Supreme Court bench by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg.
• Neon sign from Abe Jacovsky’s Jewish bookstore in Wheaton, Maryland.
• Oral history collections
• 📍 Washington, DC

The Library of Congress, located in Capitol Hill, claims to be the largest library in the world. It is the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States. To get your bearings, take a free one-hour walking tour of this historic building. Its the best way to learn about its history, symbolic art and architecture and the Library’s history and work.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Library of Congress.

• Shall Not Be Denied: Women Fight for the Vote
• Comic Art: 120 Years of Panels and Pages
• Mapping a Growing Nation: From Independence to Statehood
• 📍 101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20540

The Laogai Museum is located in Dupont Circle in Washington, DC. It focuses on human rights in the People's Republic of China. The exhibits shine a spotlight on the brutal and exploitative prison system, the Láogǎi, the Chinese prison system of "Reform through Labor".

Here are some of the "must see" items at Laogai Museum.

• “Reeducation through labor”
• 📍 First & Second Floor, 1901 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009

The L. Ron Hubbard House, located in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C, is also known as the Original Founding Church of Scientology. Scientology founder, L. Ron Hubbard lived in the home from 1955 until 1959. Today, it is fully renovated and restored and displays the chronicles of L. Ron Hubbard’s life in Washington, DC. Public tours are given on a regular basis.

Here are some of the "must see" items at L. Ron Hubbard House.

• Mediterranean Revival Style architecture
• Chronicles of L. Ron Hubbard’s life in Washington, DC.
• Photographs
• 📍 1812 19th St NW, Washington, DC 20009

The Kreeger Museum is a modern and contemporary art museum located in the former home of David Lloyd Kreeger and Carmen Kreeger. The collection is made up primarily of works from the 1850s to the present.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Kreeger Museum.

• Paul Reed, 29
• Elmer Bischoff, Girl with Mirror
• Pierre Bonnard, Seascape, Cannes (Marine, Cannes)
• 📍 2401 Foxhall Rd NW, Washington, DC 20007

The International Spy Museum's permanent collection traces the complete history of espionage, from the Greek and Roman empires to the present day. With more than 750 artifacts, it is the largest collection of international espionage artifacts on public display.

Here are some of the "must see" items at International Spy Museum.

• Covers & Legends
• School for Spies
• The Secret History of History
• 📍 700 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024

The Interior Museum's mission is to "inspire and educate Departmental employees—as well as the general public— about the ongoing stewardship of the nation’s public lands, natural resources, and cultural heritage." The Museum's collection includes 8,000+ objects of historical, cultural and scientific importance documenting the Department of the Interior's history and missions.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Interior Museum.

• North American Indian baskets
• Landscape paintings of the American West by Thomas Moran
• Geological specimens
• 📍 1849 C St NW, Washington, DC 20240

The Howard University Art Gallery was established in 1928 in order to “make revolving exhibitions of contemporary arts and crafts available for visitation and study to students.” Since then numerous purchases and gifts from friends and faculty of the University, private collectors, and art foundations have contributed to the current diverse permanent collection.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Howard University Art Gallery.

• Henry O. Tanner’s Return from the Crucifixion
• Artifacts of Alain Locke
• Renaissance and Baroque Paintings
• 📍 2455 6th St NW, Washington, DC 20059

The Historical Society of Washington, D.C. is an educational foundation and museum. The society provides lectures, exhibits, classes, community events, and other educational programs as part of its mission to preserve and display the history of Washington, D.C.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Historical Society of Washington, D.C..

• The Big Picture
• DC Hall of History
• The Carnegie Library at Mt. Vernon Square
• 📍 801 K Street, NW Washington, DC 20001

The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is part of the Smithsonian Institution. It is located in the heart of DC on the National Mall. The collection is one of the most important of postwar American and European art in the world.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.

• Yoko Ono's Wish Tree for Washington, DC
• Tino Sehgal's This You
• Marcel Duchamp: The Barbara and Aaron Levine Collection
• 📍 Independence Ave SW &, 7th St SW, Washington, DC 20560

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens is a decorative arts museum. The museum's collection includes nearly 17,000 objects from Hillwood’s collection of Russian imperial art, French 18th-century decorative art, and Marjorie Merriweather Post’s personal collection of apparel, jewelry, and accessories. The Gardens consist of 13 acres of beautiful and thoughtfully landscaped "outdoor rooms."

Here are some of the "must see" items at Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens.

• Russian Sacred Arts Gallery
• French Drawing Room
• 📍 4155 Linnean Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008

Heurich House Museum is a Gilded Age mansion in Washington DC's Dupont Circle neighborhood. The house museum preserves the legacy of historic brewer Christian Heurich. The museum offers one-hour-long tours every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 11:30am, 1:00pm, and 2:30pm. Reservations are suggested.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Heurich House Museum.

• Home/Brewed: How the Chr. Heurich Brewing Co. Witnessed DC History
• "Patriarch of Brewers" The Enduring Reputation of Christian Heurich
• A (Good) American
• 📍 1307 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036

The German-American Heritage Museum of the USA (GAHM) is located in the Penn Quarter's Hockemeyer Hall in Washington DC. The museum's collection and rotating exhibitions explore the 400-year long history of Germans in America from 1600 to now.

Here are some of the "must see" items at German-American Heritage Museum of the USA.

• From the Black Forest to the California Desert: The Life and Work of Fritz Faiss
• Stars and Stripes over the Rhine: The American Occupation in Germany after World War I, 1918-1923.
• Culinary Customs: A Taste of Germany
• 🎟️ $5 per person
• 📍 719 6th St NW, Washington, DC 20001

The Luther W. Brady Art Gallery and the Dimock Gallery make up the George Washington University Art Galleries. They display the University's permanent art collections, as well as visiting exhibitions. The collections include painting, sculpture, and photographs, ranging from rare historic pieces to Washington and Americana to modern art.

Here are some of the "must see" items at George Washington University Art Galleries.

• IN FASHION: Selections from the GW Collection
• Icons of Contemporary Art: Selections from the Luther W. Brady Collection
• Sean Scully, Yellow Yellow Yellow Triptych, 2009
• 📍 500 17th Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20006

The General Federation of Women's Clubs Headquarters, also known as the Miles Mansion, was built as a private residence in 1875. It became a social club and has served as the headquarters of the General Federation of Women's Clubs since 1922.

Here are some of the "must see" items at General Federation of Women's Clubs Headquarters.

• Historic rooms
• GFWC International President's office
• JuliWard Howe Drawing Room
• 📍 1734 N St NW #1, Washington, DC 20036

The National Deaf Life Museum at Gallaudet University hosts exhibits and programming that interpret the rich and complex deaf experience in the United States.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Deaf Life Museum at Gallaudet University.

• Gallaudet at 150 and Beyond
• Language, Culture, Communities: 200 Years of Impact by the American School for the Deaf
• We are Equal: The National Fraternal Society of the Deaf
• 📍 Chapel Hall, 800 Florida Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

Freer Gallery of Art is one of two Smithsonian Institutions that consists of Asian art. The Freer Gallery's collection contains objects dating from Neolithic times to the early 20th century, as well as the world's most important collection of works by James McNeill Whistler.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Freer Gallery of Art.

• Chinese paintings
• Whistler’s Peacock Room
• Islamic painting and metalware
• 📍 Jefferson Drive and 12th Street, SW Washington, DC

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is located in Anacostia, a neighborhood in Southeast Washington DC. Cedar Hill, the home where Frederick Douglass lived from 1877 until his death in 1895, is the focal point of the site. It has been restored to its 1895 appearance and is furnished with original objects that belonged to Frederick Douglass. The only way to get inside Frederick Douglass' home is to be on a guided tour. Rangers lead daily tours at scheduled times.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Frederick Douglass National Historic Site.

• Guided tours of the home
• 📍 1411 W St SE, Washington, DC 20020

Ford's Theatre opened in Washington DC in August 1863. It is famous for being the site of the assassination of United States President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865. Today the site consists of a theater, museum, and the Petersen House. The museum's exhibits follow Abraham Lincoln from the beginning of his presidency to the moments leading up to his assassination.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Ford's Theatre .

• Derringer pistol
• Booth's diary
• Original door to Lincoln's theater box
• 🎟️ $3 per person
• 📍 511 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20004

The Folger Shakespeare Library is located on Capitol Hill in Washington DC. The independent research library has the world's largest collection of the printed works of William Shakespeare and is a primary repository for rare materials from the early modern period (1500–1750).

Here are some of the "must see" items at Folger Shakespeare Library.

• The only extant complete copy of Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus first quarto, published in 1594
• The False Folio
• The Macro Manuscript
• 📍 201 E Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003

Dumbarton Oaks is a historic estate in Washington DC's Georgetown neighborhood. The Museum is known for its specialized collections of Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art. It also is home to the House Collection which includes historic interiors, Asian, European, and American artworks, and interior furnishings.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection.

• Byzantine Collection
• Pre-Columbian Collection
• House Collection
• 📍 1703 32nd St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Located in Washington DC's Georgetown neighborhood, Dumbarton House is a Federal-style house from around 1800. The museum's collection includes 1,000+ pieces of furniture, paintings, textiles, silver, and ceramics primarily from the Federal period, 1789 to 1825, as well as, a manuscript and document collection including journals, account books, and letters that together document nearly 300 years of Nourse family life.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Dumbarton House.

• Federal period furniture
• Nourse family letters
• Federal period silver
• 📍 2715 Q St NW, Washington, DC 20007

Decatur House was built in 1818. Today it is a historic house museum managed by the White House Historical Association. The house is open to the public for scheduled tours on Mondays.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Decatur House.

• Little button of ivory in a staircase banister
• A British coin turned upside down in a brass door fixture
• Parquet Seal of California
• 📍 748 Jackson Pl NW, Washington, DC 20006

The DAR Museum is run by the Daughters of the American Revolution. This art and history museum has a collection of over 30,000 objects reflecting the material culture and social history of the United States prior to 1840. It is primarily made up of decorative arts, costumes, quilts, and needlework.

Here are some of the "must see" items at DAR Museum.

• American Period Rooms
• Fashioning The New Woman: 1890-1925
• Quilt Collection
• 📍 1776 D St NW, Washington, DC 20006

Clara Barton Missing Soldiers Office is a museum and historic site. It consists of the restored rooms where Clara Barton had lived and worked during the Civil War.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Clara Barton Missing Soldiers Office.

• Clara Barton's Restored Rooms
• 📍 437 7th Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20004

The Charles Sumner School was constructed and established in 1872. It was one of the earliest schools for African Americans in Washington, D.C. Today it houses a small museum, a research room, art exhibits, and the archives of the District of Columbia Public Schools.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Charles Sumner School.

• The DC Public Schools Archives
• 📍 1201 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036

The Arthur M. Sackler Gallery is one of the museums that make up the Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC. The gallery focuses on Asian art. The collection includes Chinese, Indian, Korean and Japanese paintings, photography, contemporary ceramics from China, 19th- and 20th-century Japanese prints, contemporary Japanese pottery, and other related Asian arts.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Arthur M. Sackler Gallery.

• Boy Viewing Mt Fuji, F1898.110
• Jahangir Preferring a Sufi Shaikh to Kings from the St. Petersburg Album, F1942.15a
• Funerary relief bust, F1908.236
• 📍 1050 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560

The Art Museum of the Americas is the first art museum in the US that is primarily devoted to exhibiting works of modern and contemporary art from Latin America and the Caribbean. The museum's collection consists of 2000 objects in varying media including painting, sculpture, installations, prints, drawings, and photographs.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Art Museum of the Americas.

• Carlos Cruz-Díez
• Pedro Figari
• Leonel Gonzalez
• 📍 201 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20006

The Larz Anderson House is a Gilded Age mansion located in Washington DC's Dupont Circle neighborhood. The collection consists of European and Asian fine and decorative arts, as well as, historical American artifacts.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Larz Anderson House.

• Two sets of Flemish tapestries
• European landscapes paintings
• Whimsical maps of Washington, D.C.
• 📍 2118 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008

The Anacostia Community Museum is one of twenty museums under the umbrella of the Smithsonian Institution. The museum's collection documents urban communities and the lives of urban residents, from home life and everyday activities to the community-building efforts of artists, activists, and others.

Here are some of the "must see" items at Anacostia Community Museum.

• Anacostia, Our Neighborhood
• Washington, D.C. Educators
• African American Quilts
• 📍 1901 Fort Pl SE, Washington, DC 20020

American University Museum (AU) is located on American University’s main campus at the Katzen Arts Center. It consists of a three-story, 30,000 square-foot museum and sculpture garden. It hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary art from around the globe.

Here are some of the "must see" items at American University Museum.

• Topographies of Life: Pam Rogers, Lynn Sures, Mel Watkin
• Moves like Walter: New Curators Open the Corcoran Legacy Collection
• Jiří Kolář (1914–2002): Forms of Visual Poetry
• 📍 4400 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016

The African American Civil War Memorial Museum preserves and shares the largely ignored stories of enormous contributions made by the 209,145 members of the United States Colored Troops to the American Civil War. The Museum's collection includes artifacts, documents, primary sources, and technology.

Here are some of the "must see" items at African American Civil War Memorial Museum.

• Replicas of period clothing
• Uniforms and weaponry of the Civil War
• The African American Civil War Memorial Registry
• 📍 1925 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001

Science Museum

The National Air and Space Museum was established in 1946. In 2018, it was the fifth most visited museum in the world and the second most visited museum in the United States. It is a research center and museum focused on the history and science of aviation and spaceflight, as well as planetary science and terrestrial geology and geophysics.

Here are some of the "must see" items at National Air and Space Museum.

• Wright brothers' airplane
• Model of the starship Enterprise
• Apollo 11 command module
• 📍 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560

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It's like visiting the museum with a close friend who just happens to know all the best stories, secrets and gossip.

Plan Your Visit

Please review our visitor guidelines outlined below prior to your visit. 

• Hours & Admission

The Phillips Collection is located at 1600 21st Street, NW, Washington, DC, at 21st and Q Streets, NW. The main entrance is along 21st Street. 

By Metrorail or Metrobus

Using Metrorail, take the Red Line to Dupont Circle station and take the Q Street exit from the station. Go left (west) one block on Q Street to 21st Street, NW. The museum is located at 1600 21st Street, the first block to the right from Q Street.

The Phillips is accessible via several Metrobus lines. The 37, 42, H1, L1, N2, N3, N4, N6, D1, D2, D3, D6, and G2 lines stop within two blocks of the museum.

By DC Circulator

The DC Circulator bus runs every 10 minutes and costs $1 each way. The Dupont Circle-Georgetown-Rosslyn route stops at 19th and N Streets, NW. From there, head north on 19th Street towards Dupont Circle. Turn left and continue around Dupont Circle. Turn left at Massachusetts Avenue, then turn right onto 21st Street. The Phillips Collection is located on the left at 1600 21st Street, NW.

For more information, visit www.dccirculator.com

By Capital Bikeshare

Bike to the Phillips using DC's bikesharing program. Simply take a bike from one of over 190 stations in DC or Arlington and Alexandria in Virginia and return it to a docking station near the museum. The closest docking stations to The Phillips Collection are located at:

Massachusetts Avenue and Dupont Circle, NW 20th and O Streets, NW For information about membership, fees, and additional station locations, visit www.capitalbikeshare.com.

FROM BALTIMORE, MARYLAND Take I-95 South to I-495 West. From I-495 take exit 33, Connecticut Avenue (south), toward Chevy Chase. Stay on Connecticut Avenue for about 8 miles, then turn right on R Street. Turn left from R Street on 21st Street. The Phillips Collection is located on the right at 1600 21st Street, NW.

FROM ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA, AND POINTS WEST Take Route 50 or I-66 to the Roosevelt Bridge. Take the E Street Expressway (a left exit). Stay on E Street through a tunnel. Immediately after the tunnel, turn left on 20th Street. Continue on 20th Street for several blocks. Turn left on Massachusetts Avenue, then turn right on Florida Avenue. At the third traffic light (before the light at Connecticut Avenue), take a sharp right on 21st Street. The Phillips Collection is located on the right at 1600 21st Street, NW.

FROM RICHMOND, VIRGINIA Take I-95 North to I-395. Continue on I-395 across the 14th Street bridge. Continue on 14th Street (Route 1). After several blocks, turn left on I Street. Turn right on 20th Street. Turn left on Massachusetts Avenue, then turn right on Florida Avenue. At the third traffic light (before the light at Connecticut Avenue), take a sharp right on 21st Street. The Phillips Collection is located on the right at 1600 21st Street, NW.

Parking Options

We recommend booking convenient and affordable parking in advance through SpotHero, the nation's leading parking reservations app. To reserve your parking spot, visit the The Phillips Collection SpotHero Parking Page .

Bus Drop-Off

No bus parking, idling, or drop off/pick up is allowed in front of the museum. Drop off/pick up exception for seniors, visitors with disabilities, and school groups. Suggested bus drop off along Massachusetts Avenue.

Free and Discounted Admissions Opportunities

The Phillips Collection offers a variety of free and discounted admission opportunities. Learn more

The Building

The Phillips Collection building comprises the original Phillips House built in 1897 and two major additions: the Goh Annex, built in 1960 and enlarged in 1989, and the Sant Building, opened in 2006.

Download the Visitor Guide & Map

Visitor Conduct

The Phillips Collection is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and comfortable environment for our staff and visitors. Please refrain from disorderly or disruptive conduct that interferes with or distracts from other visitors’ enjoyment of the museum.

By redeeming tickets, visitors certify that they will comply with all visitor guidelines. The Phillips Collection reserves the right to refuse or revoke the admission of any visitor whose conduct violates these guidelines.

Visitor Guidelines

Health and safety guidelines.

The health and safety of our guests, staff, and community is our priority. The Phillips Collection continues to monitor and follow local and national health recommendations. We reserve the right to implement health and safety measures to ensure the safety of our staff and visitors. 

• Face masks are welcome, but not required. 
• Please stay at home if you are feeling sick.  Please do not visit the museum if you have a fever or any  covid-19 symptoms , have tested positive for covid-19 within the past 14 days, or have had close contact with anyone who is confirmed or is suspected of having covid-19.
• Contactless Check-in:  Ticketing can be completed by advance reservation for non-members, emailed to guests, and scanned for entry at a safe distance. 
• Enhanced Cleaning Procedures: There is regular disinfection of high-touch surfaces. Bathrooms are cleaned frequently throughout the day.
• Hand Sanitizer Stations: Hand sanitizer stations are located throughout the museum for visitor and staff use. 
• Enhanced Ventilation: Our ventilation and climate control systems circulate outside air using enhanced filtration.
• Phillips Collection Staff: Please follow instructions from Phillips Collection staff during your visit.

An inherent risk of exposure to covid-19 exists in any public space where people are present. We cannot guarantee that you will not be exposed to covid-19 during your visit to The Phillips Collection. Those visiting the Phillips do so at their own risk of such exposure.

Please note our updated bag policy as of December 2023.

• All bags are subject to search. 
• All bags (including backpacks, totes, purses, large bags, and bulky items) larger than 11 x 15 x 5 in. must be checked at our secured coat check. Exception: For those with a medical exception or diaper bag, please request a special tag from coat check and your bag will be allowed into the museum. 
• No bags of any kind may be worn on the back; bags must be worn on the front or side of your body at all times. 
• All contents must be secured inside the bag; nothing can be worn in any external pockets or holders outside of a bag or pants pockets (like cargo pants pockets). 
• The bag may not contain any weapons or other prohibited items, including paint, crayons, or any item that may damage the art or present a risk to other guests. Exception: Umbrellas and empty liquid bottles may be secured inside a bag. 

The Phillips Collection is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items.

Visitor Policies in the Galleries

Information services.

Phillips staff can help with directions and also provide information about the museum. 

Mobile Phones

Please silence your mobile devices and limit conversation in the galleries. For free Wi-Fi during your visit, join “Phillips”.

Photography

Visitors are encouraged to take non-flash photos for non-commercial use of the permanent collection and special exhibitions, unless otherwise noted. Photography is not permitted in the Rothko Room. Selfie sticks, video cameras, and tripods are not permitted.

Protecting the Art

To enjoy the museum and keep artworks safe, please: 

• Look, but do not touch the artwork. Please keep a two-foot distance.
• Please carry purses and small backpacks on the front of the body.
• Do not bring food or drinks into the museum.

Sketching in the galleries is permitted with #2 pencil.

Enhance Your Experience

Vradenburg shop & café.

Shop: The shop is open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 am-5 pm, no ticket required. The shop is also open 24/7 online

Café: Bead Furst Cafe is open Tuesday-Sunday, 10 am-5 pm, no ticket required. Enjoy discounts and special offers from our partner restaurants nearby.

Daily Spotlight Talks at 1 & 1:30 pm

Dive deep into a single work of art during a  Daily Spotlight Talk  with a Phillips Educator. Included with admission. Meet in front of the shop and cafe.

Digital Guide + Audio Tours

Download the free Bloomberg Connects mobile app  before your visit or in the galleries to use the exhibition audio guide. Look for the Bloomberg Connects icon on the artwork labels. Don’t forget to bring earphones!

Group Experiences

The Phillips Collection offers tours for adult and university groups and school groups .

For Families

Learn more about ways to enhance your experience with younger visitors.

Accessibility

We are committed to ensuring that the museum’s facilities, services, exhibitions, and programs comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. We make reasonable accommodations to ensure that people with disabilities have equal physical and communications access, as defined by federal law.

If you have specific questions or concerns, please call 202.387.2151 or email [email protected] in advance of your visit. 

Sensory Bags (Now Piloting)

The Phillips Collection is currently piloting three sensory bags from April 30-June 2. Each bag contains a pair of headphones, a sensory map, a magnifying glass, tactile pieces, a sensory buddy and activity prompts, sunglasses, and a guide to the materials. The bags are available for all guests, but have been designed for children with sensory sensitives, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and fidgeting tendencies. Please take the survey to share feedback about the bag.

Pick up a bag at the Guest Services desk, explore the museum, and return it before you leave.

The sensory bags were ideated by our Spring DEAI Intern as part of the Phillips's efforts to expand its accessibility resources and help individuals with sensory sensitivities feel more welcome. During this process, she conducted research on best practices through organizations such as the American Alliance of Museums, Autism in Museums, SEND In Museums, Kids in Museums UK, studies in museum journals, and articles written by autism experts. Sensory bags are provided by museums such as the Ringling Art Museum in Florida, Illinois Children’s Discovery Museum, British Postal Museum, British Museum, Houston Museum of Natural Science, and Guggenheim Museum. We hope to be able to collaborate with more local organizations after this trial period.

Wheelchairs

All galleries and public facilities of the museum are wheelchair accessible. A limited number of wheelchairs is available at the coat check. Elevators are available throughout the museum; a wheelchair lift is also available between Goh Annex Floor 3 and the bridge walkway to House Floor 2U. Please see a museum assistant for access to the lift. The Center for Art and Knowledge also has an elevator available for its public programs.

Service Animals

Service animals are welcome. Please refer to the ADA guidelines regarding service animals for more information.

Large Print Wall Text

Large print wall text is available for special exhibitions.

ASL Interpreter + Assistive Listening Devices

American Sign Language and a limited number of assistive listening devices for programs and tours are offered by request.

Watch The Phillips in ASL video series for an introduction to the museum

Self-Guides

Use our self-guides to explore the collection, in the galleries or online.

The Phillips Plays

Scavenger Hunt

Download the free app to access guides to The Phillips Collection as well as a growing roster of international cultural institutions

Bloomberg Connects

What is collecting?

Explore the concept of museum collections through these games and activities.

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National Museum of African American History & Culture

• Museum Closing
• Museum Visitor Health Check Questionnaire
• Group Visits

Frequently Asked Questions

• Accessibility Options
• Sweet Home Café
• Museum Store
• Museum Maps
• Our Mobile App
• Search the Collection
• Initiatives
• Museum Centers
• Publications
• Digital Resource Guide
• The Searchable Museum
• Exhibitions
• Freedmen's Bureau Search Portal
• Early Childhood
• Talking About Race
• Digital Learning
• Strategic Partnerships
• Ways to Give
• Internships & Fellowships
• Today at the Museum

Upcoming Events

• Ongoing Tours & Activities
• Past Events
• Host an Event at NMAAHC
• About the Museum
• The Building
• Meet Our Curators
• Founding Donors
• Corporate Leadership Councils
• NMAAHC Annual Reports

Plan Your Visit

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is open daily to the public. Free timed-entry passes are required for entry.

Monday          12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.  Tuesday          10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.  Wednesday    10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.  Thursday        10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.  Friday              10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.  Saturday         10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.  Sunday            10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

Our museum opens at 10:00 a.m. on Mondays observed as Federal Holidays and is closed on December 25. Last entry for all visitors, including groups, is 4:00 p.m.

Free Timed-Entry Passes

Reserve Passes

• All visitors, regardless of age, must have a timed-entry pass to enter the museum.
• A limited number of timed-entry passes are available. 
• Visitors can reserve timed-entry passes up to 30 days in advance on a rolling basis. 
• Advanced timed-entry passes are released daily beginning at 8:00 a.m. EST.  
• Same-day timed-entry passes are released online only at 8:15 a.m. EST daily.
• Timed-entry passes may not be sold or transferred and are for personal use only.
• Individuals can reserve up to nine free timed-entry passes for their visit. For groups of 10 or more, please  reserve group passes . 
• We are honored to welcome veterans, active-duty personnel, and first responders with one guest to the museum. Upon arrival, please show a military or work ID badge, and register for entry using a QR code.

Please note: museum entry is subject to building capacity; weekends and holidays are peak visitation times. If the museum is at or near capacity, all visitors standing in line will be asked to wait until the museum has room to accommodate them. 

Additional Information  

• All children (under the age of 18) must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. When accompanying children, one (1) adult can chaperone up to a maximum of ten (10) children.   
• Timed-entry passes are valid only for the issued date. Passes are void if altered. 
• Visitors can print timed-entry passes at home or present them on a mobile device. All passes will be scanned prior to entering the museum on Madison Drive or Constitution Ave.
• If you cannot visit the museum on your scheduled date, please email [email protected] to return or exchange your passes.

Safety Measures

The following safety measures are in place to protect the health of our visitors, staff and volunteers based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local governments. We ask that all visitors, including those who have been vaccinated against COVID-19, follow these safety measures to protect everyone’s health. Visitors are not required* to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination. 

Please note that we may adjust our safety guidelines based on changing CDC COVID-19 Community Levels. We encourage visitors to regularly check our  website  before their visit for the latest guidelines. During this time, we are implementing the following safety measures: 

If Sick, Stay Home    We are asking all visitors who are sick or feel unwell to please stay home. Visitors are encouraged to wash and sanitize hands frequently during their visit. Hand-sanitizing stations will be available throughout our facilities.

Face Coverings As of March 11, 2022, face coverings are not required to visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture. While it will not be required, all visitors who feel more comfortable wearing a face mask during their visit are encouraged to do so.

We encourage visitors to maintain a safe social distance of six feet or more between households and groups when possible, but our museum becomes crowded, especially during peak visitation times. Visitors who wish to avoid crowds are encouraged to plan their visit during weekdays.

* Special events  and some after-hours programming may require guests to provide proof of vaccination.

Touring the Museum

Please be aware that touring the History Galleries in their entirety will take approximately 2 hours, and will require about 1 mile of walking.

Our highest visitation is from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., Friday through Sunday. During this timeframe, there may be long lines to access the History Galleries.

We encourage visitors to eat and hydrate before entering the History Galleries, especially if they have special healthcare needs. 

Museum Maps 

Visitor Pathways

Are you looking for ways to experience and learn history throughout our museum with your group or loved ones? We have done the planning for you!    

Whether it’s your first or tenth visit, NMAAHC has planned special experiences designed for families, friend groups and couples visiting our museum.

Follow a special pathway through our exhibitions and gallery spaces.

 Visitor Pathways 

Entering & Exiting the Museum

• Please do not arrive before the entry time on your timed-entry pass.
• Timed-entry passes will be scanned at the visitor entrances on Madison Drive or Constitution Avenue, NW.
• Visitors with timed-entry passes will be able to enter the museum from the time on their pass until 4:00 p.m. For group passholders, there is a 2-hour grace period from the entry time on the pass. After this timeframe, entrance is not guaranteed and is based on capacity.
• For everyone’s safety, all visitors are required to pass through screening at the entrance to the museum. Please see a  list of prohibited items  in the museum before planning your visit.
• Limiting the items you bring will increase your speed through security checkpoints, helping us all maintain a safe social distance. 
• Visitors are required to exit on Constitution Avenue, NW.

Dining & Shopping

The museum store is open daily, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m, with the exception of Mondays (12:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m.). Hand sanitizer stations are available for use upon entry and exit of the museum store.

The Sweet Home Café is open daily, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. with a limited menu, with the exception of Mondays (12:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m.).

NMAAHC offers a limited number of Dine and Shop passes to access only the Museum Store and Sweet Home Café between 11:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. during regular operating hours. Passes are released 7 days in advance at 8:00 a.m. EST on a rolling basis. Visitors can reserve up to 4 Dine and Shop passes per day.

Dine and Shop Passes 

Review our Frequently Asked Questions for more information about planning your visit and what to expect when you arrive at the museum.

Tours & Programs

Please check our upcoming events for specific dates and details. 

Download Our Mobile App

Connect to our free WiFi network, "SI-Visitor" and download our mobile app as a complement to your museum visit and as a way to more easily discover the many additional stories in our collection.  

Download the Mobile App

Subtitle here for the credits modal.

18 Best Museums In Washington D.C., The Complete Guide

Scoping out the best museums in Washington D.C.? You’ve come to the right place. 

DC is awash with museums. With the Smithsonians and other private museums, the city is mainstream museum mania. The museums are some of the most educational and inspirational on the planet. Plus, many of them are completely free to visit.

I lived in the DC area for over 25 years, so have visited all of these museums. Every time I’m back in Washington, I still set aside time to my favorites and attend temporary exhibitions. On a recent visit, I hit seven museums.

The sheer number of museums in Washington D.C. can be overwhelming though, both for residents and first time visitors.

There’s visual art in all forms — classical, Renaissance art, Impressionism, contemporary art, Asian art, African Art, etc. There are also history and culture museums and hidden house museums without crowds.

If you’ve already seen the permanent collections, you can check out the special exhibitions on view. Whatever your art or museum geekery, there is something for everyone in DC.

Best Museums In Washington D.C.

Here’s my list of the best must visit museums in Washington D.C.

1. National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art is the best museum in Washington D.C. and one of the best in the world. The collection is encyclopedic, home to some of the world’s greatest masterpieces. 

The collection includes over 140,000 paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, sculpture, and decorative arts from the 13th century to the present. The art ranges from Byzantine/Medieval altarpieces to Pop and Conceptual art.

The art works are housed in the West Wing (11th century to Impressionism) and the East Wing (modern and contemporary art).

The East Wing was designed by I.M. Pei, of Louvre pyramid fame. The two wings are connected by a remarkable walkway called  Multiverse .

The museum’s top masterpiece is Leonardo da Vinci’s Ginevra de Benci , the only Leonardo in the United States.

You’ll also find works by Sandro Botticelli, Fra Angelico, Rembrandt, Raphael, Vermeer, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollack, Wassily Kandinsky, and Vincent Van Gogh.

The NGA also puts on spectacular temporary exhibits, which are also free. I just attended one on Vittore Carpaccio, a master of the Venetian Renaissance.

Here’s my complete guide to the National Gallery of Art , with a description of 30 must see masterpieces, 15 from each wing. You may want to  book a guided highlights tour .

2. Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden

The Hirshshorn is Washington D.C.’s contemporary art museum. It was the first national museum dedicated to post–World War II art and the first modernist building on the National Mall. 

Opened in 1974, the museum was founded with a gift from Joseph H. Hirshorn, an oil and mining tycoon. He donated over 12,000 works of art amassed over 50 years of collecting — paintings, sculptures, drawings, and mixed media pieces.

Inside, there are four floors. The first floor is the entrance hall and houses the cafe.

Floors two and three are each divided into two circles, inner and outer. Special exhibitions are held in the level two.

The museum’s permanent collection includes modern and contemporary works of sculpture, paintings, digital media, photography, video, performance-based pieces.

There are works by Yayoi Kusama, Joan Mitchell, Damien Hirst, Laurie Anderson, Edward Hopper, and Willem de Kooning. The most beloved are Kusama’s Infinity Mirror rooms.

The Hirshhorn also has a magnificent Sculpture Garden with works by August Rodin and Henry Moore. It’s closing in the spring of 2023 for a multi-year renovation.

Here’s my complete guide to the Hirshhorn Museum .

3. National Air & Space Museum

Founded in 1876, the  National Air and Space Museum  is one of the best museums in DC and one of the most visited museums on the planet. The museum explores the evolution and science of air and space in America.

It houses the world’s largest collection of aviation and space artifacts. The museum has over 23 exhibition galleries. 

You’ll see aircrafts, spacecrafts, Wright Brother planes and experiments, the Apollo 11 command module, and Charles Lindbergh’s  Spirit of St. Louis . The museum caters to both children and adults. There are IMAX movies, planetarium shows, and flight simulators.

In 2021, Jeff Bezos gave $200 million to the museum to finance necessary infrastructure renovations and establish the Jeff Bezos Learning Center. New exhibition spaces are still being unveiled.

If you want to visit both the Air and Space Museum and the Museum of American History, great museums for kids, you can book this  2 hour tour .

4. Museum of Natural History

The massive two story  National Museum of Natural History  is beloved by children, science lovers, and wannabe paleontologists.

It boasts the largest natural history collection in the world. There are over 124 million objects and artifacts.

Highlights are the Hall of Human Origins, Sant Ocean Hall, Live Butterfly Pavilion, Last American Dinosaurs exhibit, a giant beehive, and a Live Insect Zoo. 

Perhaps the most famous exhibit is the 46 karat Hope Diamond in Hooker Hall. In a setting designed by Cartier, 16 white diamonds surrounded the central gem, which is the largest known blue diamond in the world.

Its brilliant deep blue sparkle caught the eyes of Louis XIV and  Marie Antoinette  before disappearing during the French Revolution.

In February 2023, the museum unveiled the Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education and Innovation. It added 230,00 square feet of space to the museum, including a new Invisible Worlds Theater and reading room.

The museum could take all day to visit. Click  here  if you want a 2 hour guided tour of this fine museum.

5. National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery must be one of the most underrated museums in Washington D.C. It’s not on the National Mall, so that may account for it being rather a hidden gem. The gallery is near Chinatown and the Penn Quarter neighborhoods.

The NPG is a beguiling combination of history, biography, and art all in one go. It’s brilliant, a must visit destination in D.C. for history buffs, art lovers, and pop culture aficionados.

Tthe National Portrait Gallery tells the story of America, from pre-Revolutionary War to the present.

The museum has the world’s only complete collection of presidential portraits outside the White House. And over 25,000 images of famous Americans — politicians, business tycoons, celebrities, influencers, and sports figures.

The addition of the portraits of Barack Obama (second floor) and Michelle Obama (third floor) in 2018 sparked a pilgrimage effect.

They were the first portraits of a president and First Lady painted by African American artists.

Here’s my complete guide to the National Portrait Gallery .

6. National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the newest of the Smithsonian museums and one of the best museums to visit in DC.

Opened in 2016, the museum is housed in a gorgeous African-influenced building that looks like an exotic temple. Tanzanian-born architect David Adjaye led the design team. The building cost over $500 million, and was paid for with both federal and private funds.

The museum chronicles the ups and downs of the African American experience from slavery to the present day. It is divided into three sections: (1) history; (2) community; and (3) culture.

The most significant, and gut wrenching, is the history exhibit. To get to the history section, take the escalator or stunning spiral staircase from the first floor down to the Concourse.

Once there, look for the “History” elevator, which takes your underground. You’ll find exhibits chronicling the slave trade, emancipation, segregation, and the civil rights movement.

Head up to the third floor for the community section (sports, military). Then, finish your visit with a bang on the fourth floor in the culture section (film, TV, music, food, art).

Here’s my complete guide to the African American Museum in DC . The museum is free. But you need to  pre-book a time slot online  for a $1 fee.

7. National Museum of African Art

The National Museum of African Art began as a private collection and then joined the Smithsonian in 1979. It’s housed in a granite building with double domes. Inside are the soaring ceilings of the grand vestibule.

The museum is the only one in the United States dedicated to the collection, exhibition, conservation, and study of the arts of Africa. 

It houses some of the finest examples of traditional and contemporary art from the entire continent of Africa.

The collection includes textiles, ceramics, photographs, masks, ritual vessels, musical instruments, sculpture, and jewelry.

The museum had a collection of Benin bronzes. But they returned then to Nigeria in 2022, with an agreement that there would be a future exhibition curated by Nigeria onsite.

8. National Museum of Women in the Arts

It’s hard to believe, but this is the only museum in the word dedicated to women in the arts. And it’s a stunner.

Once a Masonic temple, the National Museum for Women in the Arts has the decadence of a Parisian palace. It’s Great Hall is clad in marble and decorated with crystal chandeliers.

The museum’s main mission is to showcase and promote female artists, who have long ignored or underrepresented in most museum spaces.

It also presents provocative exhibitions about the portrayal of women. The art ranges from the 16th century to the present.

There are works by Suzanne Valadon, Georgia O’Keefe, Amy Sherald, Alice Bailly, Mary Cassatt, Vigee-le-Brun, Lee Krasner, Berthe Morisot, and Frida Kahlo.

The museum has been closed for renovations. It’s celebrating its grand reopening on October 21, 2023.

9. Renwick Gallery

The Renwick Gallery is dedicated to contemporary fine arts and crafts. It’s a branch of the Museum of American Art.

It’s housed in a beautiful Second Empire style building that was modeled after the Louvre’s Tuileries addition.

The museum displays its permanent collection in a series of rotating exhibits. Right now, it has works on display in This Present Moment .

The Renwick’s exhibitions are always innovative and though provoking. The pieces are so finely made, and have such compelling themes, that they seem to blur the distinction between “art” and “crafts.”

Highlights of the permanent collection include Nick Cave’s  Soundsuit ; Wendell Castle’s  Ghost Clock ; Karen LaMonte’s  Reclining Dress Impression with Drapery , Debra Baxter’s  Devil Horns Crystal Brass Knuckles (Lefty) , Albert Paley’s  Portal Gates , and Leo Villareal,  Volume (Renwick) .

Here’s my complete guide to the Renwick Gallery .

10. Phillips Collection

The Phillips Collection is one of my favorites and one of the best museums in Washington D.C.

The collection is housed in two Georgian Revival buildings in the DuPont Circle area. This gives it an intimate feel.

The museum was founded over a century ago by Duncan Phillips. He was a visionary American collector who focused on late 19th century and early 20th century works.

There is an especially strong collection of American Impressionism, Post-Impressionist and Modernist art works.

The museums display works by Paul Cézanne, Mark Rothko, Willem de Kooning, John Marin, Arthur Dove, Georgia O’Keefe, and Pablo Picasso.

The two stand outs are Renoir’s Lunch of the Boating Party and the Rothko Room. The artist himself helped design the room, which has four luminous Rothko works from the 1950s.

Here’s my complete guide to the Phillips Collection .

11. Museum of Asian Art

The Museum of Asian Art is an underrated museum in Washington D.C., where you can escape the usual Smithsonian crowds.

The museum is in two parts, the Freer Gallery and the Sackler Gallery.

The Freer Gallery contains the collection of railroad tycoon Charles Freer, who bequeathed his art to the nation upon his death.

Opened in 1923, the museum was the first American public collection devoted primarily to the art of Asia. The Sackler, with its own collection, opened next to the Freer in 1987.

The Sackler Gallery has exhibits from China, South Arabia, Yemen, the Near East, and Iran. A highlight is a Tibetan Buddhist shrine.

The stupendous Freer collection includes fine arts from the classical antiquity of China, the Far and Near East, Japan, Korea, Tibet, India, Iran, Syria, and Egypt. You will see examples of bronze, jade, pottery, lacquer, sculpture, glass, metalwork, and Japanese screens.

Freer also collected paintings by American artists, includes James Whistler, Winslow Homer, Child Hassam, and John Singer Sargent.

The highlight of the Freer Collection is the famous Peacock Room decorated by Whistler. It’s one of the most extravagant 19th century interiors in existence.

The room’s centerpiece is Whistler’s wondrous The Princess of the Land of Porcelain . The shelves are filled with the Chinese porcelain and the walls are decorated and gilded with peacocks.

Here’s my guide to the Museum of Asian Art .

12. Holocaust Memorial Museum

The Holocaust Memorial Museum is one of the top attractions and best museums in Washington D.C.

The Museum is a living memorial to the Holocaust, one of the world’s most horrific tragedies. It’s a place for sober reflection on man’s inhumanity to man.

Founded in 1993, the Holocaust Memorial Museum captures the visceral memories of a long nightmare. It shines a harrowing light on the insane megalomania and savagery of the Nazi party.

With unflinching eye-opening detail, the museum documents the rise of the Nazi party and its atrocities. It reveals the evil not in a grandiose way, but in the most minute bone chilling details.

The centerpiece of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is its  permanent exhibition , simply titled  The Holocaust .

The exhibit covers three floors. There are artifacts, photographs, and films that give the viewer a chronological telling of the tragedy.

Each floor covers a different era. Along the way, you will see personal objects that belonged to survivors, as well as hear eyewitness testimonies.

The exhibits explore how Hitler and the Nazis come to power and why Jews were singled out for persecution and extermination.

Here are some of the most moving exhibits:

• the Tower of Faces, portraits of Lithuanians killed in the Holocaust
• diorama of the Auschwitz death camp and crematorium
• bridge with names of erased communities
• bridge with names of vanished persons
• mountain of stolen shoes
• rail car for deportations
• Warsaw Ghetto milk can used to hide art and artifacts
• photo of bales of female hair, shorn by the Nazis and sold for profit

Here’s my complete guide to the Holocaust Museum in DC.

13. Museum of American History

The  National Museum of American History  collects and preserves significant artifacts from American history and popular culture. There are more than 3 million items in the collection. 

The treasures include the original Star-Spangled Banner, Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s “dissent collar,” Abraham Lincoln’s top hat, Dorothy’s ruby slippers from  The Wizard of Oz , and Julia Child’s kitchen.

Two of the most popular galleries are the First Ladies Gallery and the American Presidents Gallery on the second floor.

In the First Ladies Gallery, you’ll see inauguration gowns of the First Ladies and Jacqueline Kennedy’s iconic yellow silk state dinner dress.

In the Presidents Gallery, you’ll discover the presidents who served the US and found the presidency both a burden and an honor.

With more than 90 objects, the exhibition explores the personal, public, ceremonial, and executive actions of those occupying the United States’ highest office. 

The museum hosts myriad public programs, including lectures, tours, demonstrations, and live theater experiences. The museum also offers music programs by resident jazz and chamber ensembles.

14. Museum of American Art

The Museum of American Art houses one of the most comprehensive collections of American art in the world. It celebrates the country’s artistic legacy from the Colonial period to the present day.

You find works of American Impressionism, 20th century Realism, sculpture, contemporary crafts, and media art.

There are works by such luminaries as Jonathan Singleton Copley, Gilbert Stuart, Albert Bierstadt, Mary Cassatt, Helen Frankenthaler, Georgia O’Keefe, Edward Hopper, and Robert Rauschenberg.

Some of my favorite paintings there are Cape Code Morning by Edward Hopper, The Eclipse by Alma Thomas, The Wave by Willem de Kooning, and Snails’s Space by David Hockney.

There’s a magnificent piece by the father of video art, Nam Juan Pail, called Electronic Superhighway . Sculptures by Roy Lichtenstein and Luis Jimenez grace the entrance.

A new acquisition, from the Joseph Cornell Study Center are four watercolors by superstar contemporary artist Yayoi Kusama. Dating from the 1950s, the works — with cosmological images — are from a crucial period in her oeuvre, when she moved from Japan to the United States.

The museum is connected to the National Portrait Gallery by the beautiful skylit Kogod Courtyard.

15. National Archives

The National Archives is one of the best museums in Washington D.C. for history buffs.

The  National Archives  houses the country’s most important documents. The star attractions are the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. 

In the Rubenstein Gallery, you’ll find one of only four copies of the Magna Carta. This was the agreement between King John of England and the barons protecting their rights and land.

Admission is free, but you have to make a  timed entry reservation  for $1.

16. National Museum of the American Indian

This  National Museum of the American Indian  boasts one of the world’s most expansive collections of Native American objects.

The museum is dedicated to bringing Native culture voices to life throughout its contemplative exhibitions.

The museum was designed exclusively by Native American architects. It’s visually striking, with pink-gold limestone intended to resemble rock formations formed by wind and water over thousands of years.

Like the Museum of African American History, the museum focuses on Indian triumph in the face of hardship. Indigenous voices tell their stories.

There is a bit more professional Smithsonian curation and scholarship now than when it first opened in 2004.

The collection spans more than 12,000 years of history across 1,200+ indigenous cultures from the Americas. The objects on display are diverse, with aesthetic, religious, and historical significance.

17. Rubbell Museum

Do you like contemporary art? There’s a new entry of the list of Washington D.C. museums, the Rubbell Museum . DC is not especially known for its contemporary art scene, so this museum fills a void.

Opened in 2022, it was inaugurated by the Rubbell family with over 200 works. One of the world’s most ambitious collecting families, the Rubbells concentrate on work from the early part of an artist’s career and the “search for the new.”

The museum is housed in a former school building that’s been given a modern update. The museum features 32,000 square feet of galleries, a bookstore, and cafe.

The museum doesn’t shy away from political topics or controversy either — displaying works with themes of racial equality, gender identity, and climate change.

There are works by artists like Keith Haring, Kehinde Wiley, Cindy Sherman, Carrie Mae Weems, Maurizio Cattelan, and Christina Quarles. 

18. Kreeger Museum

Opened in 1994, the Kreeger Museum is housed in the former mid-Century modern home of insurance scion David Lloyd Kreeger and his wife Carmen.

Renowned architect Phillip Johnson designed the house to show off the Kreegers’ art in an intimate setting. Kreeger created his collection “for love,” not as an investment.

The Kreeger is an off the beaten path museum in DC, west of Georgetown, with works from the 1950s to the present. The collection is especially strong in Post-Impressionist and Expressionist paintings, sculpture, and African art.

You’ll find works by Picasso, Milton Avery, Sam Gilliam, Pierre Bonnard, Paul Cézanne, Arshille Gorky, and even Vincent Van Gogh. The dining room is lined with works by Claude Monet.

The museum also has its own sculpture courtyard. You’ll find works by Henry Moore, Jean Arp, Aristide Maillol, and Jacques Lipchitz.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the best museums in Washington D.C. You may enjoy these other U.S. travel guides and resources:

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• 25 most beautiful towns in New England
• 45 amazing destinations in the United States
• Best places to visit in Massachusetts

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Last Updated on October 20, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

The National Archives Museum depicts our astounding national mosaic and tells the stories of the American journey.

Visit the museum.

Plan your visit to the National Archives Museum, home of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights.

Open Daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

701 Constitution Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20408

Plan A Visit

Founding Documents

Visit these milestone documents in our Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom

Reservations & Tours

Records of Rights Permanent Exhibit Explore how generations of Americans sought to fulfill the promise of the founding documents.

Power & Light: Russell Lee's Coal Survey March 16, 2024 to July 6, 2025 Russell Lee’s 1946 coal survey photographs tell the story of laborers who helped build the nation, of a moment when the government took stock of their health and safety, and of a photographer who recognized their humanity.

Road to Revolution June 21, 2024 to August 6, 2026 Road to Revolution is a series of displays highlighting National Archives records that document the journey from colonial resistance to American independence and the diverse experiences of the nation’s founding generation.

Featured Document Display: North Atlantic Treaty June 21, 2024 to July 31, 2024 On April 4, 1949, representatives of the United States, Canada, and 10 Western European nations met in Washington, DC, to sign the North Atlantic Treaty—a mutual defense pact against possible aggression from the Soviet Union.

VIEW MORE EXHIBITS

• July 12, 2024 Kid Detectives Family History Camp at the National Archives - Virtual Camp 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
• July 18, 2024 The National Archives Comes Alive! Young Learners Program: Meet Mark Twain 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Here for Research?

Researchers should use the Pennsylvania Avenue entrance

Travel and Dish

Traveler, Diner, Photographer @TravelandDish

18 Washington D.C. Attractions that Require or Recommend Advance Tickets (and how to make them)

Before you travel to Washington DC, it’s important to plan your visit by making advance reservations at many popular attractions. It’s important to check out each website for the latest on the hours of operation. Some attractions remain closed. (updated November 29, 2022)

1 National Archives 

Where to get tickets: archives.gov/museum 

Tour times: Guided, Every 15 minutes beginning 10:30 to 90 mins before close 

Adult cost: $1.00 

Notes: walk-ins allowed, but Fast Pass is recommended  

2. The White House 

Closed. Where to get future tickets:  whitehouse.gov  Must go through member of Congress. 

Tour times: Mon.–Thu., 7:30–11; Fri.–Sat., 7:30–1:30  

Max days ahead: 180 

Min days ahead: 21 

Notes: Background check is required. Tours have resumed.

3. US Holocaust Museum 

Where to get tickets:  ushmm.org  

Tour times: 9:45 am – 4:45 pm  

Max days ahead: Same day and advance tickets online  

Notes: Passes required Mar-Aug, not required September – February 

4. Treasury Building 

Closed. Where to get tickets : Must go through member of Congress. Limited to legal American citizens at this time.

Tour times: Every other Saturday morning, 9 am and 10:30 am 

Notes: Background check is required. Visitors must enter through the West building entrance (Bell entrance).  This entrance is located in between the Treasury Building and the White House.  A docent will meet you to escort the group into the building.

5. Washington Monument 

Where to get tickets:  www.recreation.gov  877-444-6777 

Tour times: 9 am – 5 pm 

Adult cost: $1.00 processing fee 

Notes: Some same day passes on first come/first serve available, but best to reserve a ticket in advance. (You can wait around the Monument grounds and often people will have extra tickets and give them out)

6. The Pentagon 

Closed. Where to get tickets: pentagontours.osd.mil 

Tour times: Mon.–Fri., 9–3 

Max days ahead: 90 

Min days ahead: 14 

Notes: submit request, must show ID (passport, driver’s license, permanent resident card) Public tours have resumed. You will not be allowed to bring any electronics on your tour.

7.  U.S. Capitol 

Where to get tickets:  visitthecapitol.gov for tickets 

Tour times: 9 am –3 pm weekdays only 

Min days ahead: 1 

Notes: Some same day passes available, Gallery Passes obtained through Congressional representative. But all tours, programs and activities in the visitor-approved areas like the Rotunda, Statuary and the Crypt are free of charge. Visitors enter through the Capitol Visitor Center, located underground on the east side of the Capitol. 

8. Ford’s Theater National Historic Site 

Where to get tickets:  fords.org  for Historic Site Visit 

Tour times: Daily, 9–4 

Adult cost: $3 

Notes: Advance reservations strongly encouraged. Limited number of Same Day passes are available for timed-entry every half hour from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Monday – Sunday. The Theatre is not included in every ticket. 

9. Department of State Diplomatic Reception Rooms 

Where to get tickets:  diplomaticrooms.state.gov For information call  202-647-3241 

Tour times: Mon.–Fri., 9:30, 10:30, 2:45 

Notes: Fine Arts tour, not appropriate for children. 

Background The State Department building is a secure facility, and visitors will need to check in at the information desk inside the C Street entrance. Be sure to bring photo identification. You must be pre-cleared or cleared in by an employee for a tour.

10.  Frederick Douglass National Historic Site  

Where to get tickets: nps.gov/frdo 

Tour times: Daily, 9, 12:15, 1:15, 3, 3:30 (walk-ins only), 4 (Apr.±Oct.) 

Standard Tours (1 to 10 people)

Space is limited to ten people on the standard tour. Reservations are not required, but they are  strongly encouraged . To make a reservation, visit  recreation.gov  or call 1-877-444-6777. There is a $1.00 fee for each reserved ticket. Reservations must be made at least one day in advance. If available, unreserved tickets are otherwise free to the public and may be claimed on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are recommended to guarantee your place on a tour.

Adult cost: $1.00 

Notes: Same day passes available.

11. President Lincoln’s Cottage 

Where to get tickets: lincolncottage.org 

Tour times: Mon.–Sat., 10–3; Sun., 11–3 

Adult cost: $15, Kids $5 (should be 6 or older) 

Min days ahead: 0 

Notes: Advanced tickets suggested. On site tickets are sometimes available. 

12. Bureau of Engraving and Printing 

Where to get tickets: Tickets required on day of visit beginning at 8:30 am.  

Tour times: Mon.–Fri, 8:15–8:45, 4–4:45 

Min days ahead:  

Notes: Tickets only required Mar-Aug; can be picked up at ticket window for other times.  Currently closed .

13. Folger Shakespeare Library 

Where to get tickets: folger.edu 

Tour times: Saturday at noon 

Max days ahead: 60 

Notes: This is for READING ROOM TOURS; regular tours do not require tickets.  Currently closed for renovations. Opens November 17, 2023.

14. FBI Experience  

Where to get tickets: Security approval required. Must go through member of Congress. 

• Submission:  Confirms your congressional representative scheduled the correct tour date and time.
• Security approval:  Verifies your tour time and approval to enter FBI space and provides tour logistics you need to know prior to your visit.

Tour times: Mon.–Fri. 9 am -4:30 pm 

Max days ahead: 35 

Notes: No Federal Holidays, must be 16 or older with government issued ID.

15. National Museum of African American History and Culture 

Where to get tickets: Timed entry passes available online, required on Saturday and Sunday 

Tour times: Mon.–Fri. 10 am -5:30 pm 

Adult cost: free 

Max days ahead: 90 days 

Notes: Walk-in entry on Monday-Friday from 1 pm until close on March-August 

16. International Spy Museum

Where to get tickets: tickets.spymuseum.org

Adult (13-64) –  $26.95 Youth (7-12) –  $16.95 Child (6 and under) –  FREE (ticket required)

Hours: Thursday through Wednesday 9 am – 7 pm

Location: L’Enfant Plaza Station. Rooftop viewing. Spies under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

17. Planet Word

Where to get tickets: https://planetwordmuseum.org/plan-your-visit/

HOURS Wednesday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last entrance time is 3:30 p.m.

LOCATION 925 13th Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20005 Entrance on K Street

Cost: General admission is free, with a suggested $15 donation to support the museum’s mission-driven programs, exhibits, and educational outreach.

18. Museum of the Bible

Reserve Online for discount tickets: https://www.museumofthebible.org/plan-your-visit

Hours: Open 7 days a week from 10 am – 5 pm

Cost: Adult Advance tickets $19.99 Walk Up: $24.99

Seniors, Military, First Responders, and Students $19.99

Youth (Ages 5–17) $13.99, Walk up $14.99

Children (Ages 4 and under) Free

Old Post Office Tower

Where: Located at the intersection of 12th Street and Pennsylvania Ave N.W. (part of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel) Information

Cost: Tickets are Free, No reservations needed

Hours: 9 am – 4 pm, tours commence every five minutes

Self-Guided Tours begin from the elevator lobby on the stage level of the Old Post Office Pavilion. Visitors board the glass elevator to the exhibit area, then the elevator rises 270 feet viewing area.

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Discovering Hidden Gems: 24 Small Museums in Washington DC You Need to Visit

Washington, D.C. is known for its world-class museums, but hidden among the larger, more famous institutions are a number of small, yet equally fascinating museums.

These smaller museums offer a more intimate and unique experience for visitors, showcasing niche collections and exhibitions that highlight different aspects of the city’s history and culture.

From quirky and offbeat collections to exhibits focusing on specific themes or time periods, the small museums of Washington, D.C. provide a diverse and enriching cultural experience that should not be missed.

In this article, we will explore some of the best small museums that the nation’s capital has to offer.

1. Anacostia Community Museum

The Anacostia Community Museum in Washington DC is a small but impactful institution that focuses on highlighting issues affecting urban communities.

Through its diverse and creative exhibits, the museum sheds light on important topics facing these communities today.

Visitors to the Anacostia Community Museum can expect to see thought-provoking displays that tackle issues such as gentrification, social justice, and community empowerment.

The museum’s exhibits are designed to spark conversations and inspire visitors to think critically about the challenges facing urban areas. One of the museum’s strengths is its ability to engage with the local community.

Through partnerships with local organizations and artists, the Anacostia Community Museum is able to bring a unique perspective to its exhibits and programs.

Rating: 9.2

Phone: +1 202-633-4820

Address: 1901 Fort Pl SE, Washington, DC 20020, United States

Website: anacostia.si.edu

2. Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum

Located in Washington DC, the Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum is a small museum dedicated to exploring the history of the U.S. postal service.

It offers visitors a unique look at the development of postal services in the United States, from the days of the Pony Express to modern stamp collections. The museum features a wide range of exhibits that showcase the evolution of the postal service over the years.

Visitors can learn about the challenges faced by early mail carriers, the innovations that revolutionized the delivery of mail, and the important role that the postal service has played in connecting people across the country.

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of stamps, which includes rare and valuable pieces from around the world.

Visitors can marvel at intricately designed stamps from different.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 202-633-5555

Address: 2 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States

Website: postalmuseum.si.edu

3. Smithsonian American Art Museum

The Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington DC is a small museum that houses a unique collection of American art. Located in the third-oldest federal building in the capital, the museum is also home to the National Portrait Gallery.

Visitors can explore a wide range of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more.

The museum’s collection showcases the rich cultural heritage of the United States, with works by renowned artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, John Singer Sargent, and Edward Hopper.

In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also hosts special exhibitions that highlight different aspects of American art history. Visitors can learn about the stories behind the artworks and gain a deeper understanding of the artists who created them.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 202-633-1000

Address: G Street Northwest &, 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States

Website: americanart.si.edu

4. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington DC is a must-visit for those interested in the wonders of the natural world. Upon entering the museum, visitors are greeted by towering dinosaur exhibits that transport them back in time to the prehistoric era.

These lifelike displays showcase the size and scale of these ancient creatures, offering a glimpse into their world. Moving through the museum, visitors will encounter exhibits featuring rare gems and minerals from around the globe.

These dazzling displays highlight the beauty and diversity of the Earth’s geological treasures, from sparkling diamonds to shimmering opals.

In addition to these impressive exhibits, the museum also houses collections of fossils, taxidermy specimens, and interactive displays that educate and inspire visitors of all ages.

Address: 10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, United States

Website: naturalhistory.si.edu

5. National Building Museum

The National Building Museum in Washington DC is a unique museum dedicated to architecture, engineering, and design.

It offers a variety of exhibits that cater to both kids and adults, making it a great destination for families to visit. As you explore the museum, you will be able to learn about the history of architecture and engineering, as well as the impact they have had on society.

The exhibits showcase different aspects of these fields, from the innovative designs of buildings to the latest technological advancements.

One of the highlights of the National Building Museum is the interactive exhibits that allow visitors to engage with the material in a hands-on way.

Kids can participate in activities that teach them about the principles of architecture and engineering, while adults can enjoy the more in-depth displays that they explore.

Rating: 8.6

Phone: +1 202-272-2448

Address: 401 F St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Website: nbm.org

6. Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum

Nestled in the heart of Washington DC is the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, a small yet vibrant museum branch.

This unique gallery is dedicated to showcasing handicrafts, textiles, and decorative arts created by contemporary national artists. Visitors to the Renwick Gallery can expect to be dazzled by the intricate designs and innovative techniques used by these talented artists.

From stunning quilts to delicate ceramics, there is something for everyone to appreciate and admire. One of the highlights of the Renwick Gallery is its rotating exhibitions, which feature the work of both established artists and up-and-coming talents.

This ensures that each visit is a fresh and exciting experience, with new pieces to discover and be inspired by.

Phone: +1 202-633-7970

Address: 1661 Pennsylvania Avenue NW #1, Washington, DC 20006, United States

7. National Museum of Women in the Arts

The National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington DC is a unique museum that is devoted to female art. It houses over 3,000 works by renowned artists such as Frida Kahlo and Mary Cassatt.

Visitors to the museum can explore a wide range of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more, all created by women artists.

The museum’s collection showcases the talent and creativity of women artists throughout history. One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of works by Frida Kahlo, the iconic Mexican artist known for her powerful and emotional paintings.

Visitors can see some of Kahlo’s most famous works up close and gain a deeper understanding of her life and artistic vision.

Phone: +1 202-783-5000

Address: 1250 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States

Website: nmwa.org

8. Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is a small museum located in Washington DC.

It is dedicated to the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass, a prominent African American abolitionist and statesman. The museum is housed in Douglass’ former home, Cedar Hill, where he lived from 1877 until his death in 1895.

The site offers visitors a glimpse into Douglass’ personal life, including his family, work, and contributions to the abolitionist movement. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved rooms of the house, including Douglass’ study, library, and bedroom.

The museum also features exhibits on Douglass’ writings, speeches, and activism, highlighting his role in the fight against slavery and for civil rights.

Phone: +1 202-426-5961

Address: 1411 W St SE, Washington, DC 20020, United States

Website: nps.gov

9. Dumbarton Oaks Museum

Dumbarton Oaks Museum in Washington DC is a renowned research library and museum that specializes in Byzantine and pre-Columbian studies.

The museum houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts from these historical periods, offering visitors a unique opportunity to learn about these fascinating cultures.

One of the highlights of the museum is its formal gardens, which provide a peaceful and picturesque setting for visitors to explore.

The meticulously manicured gardens feature a variety of plant species, beautiful fountains, and intricate pathways that create a serene atmosphere.

Visitors can wander through the gardens, taking in the sights and sounds of nature while admiring the museum’s stunning architecture and outdoor sculptures. Overall, Dumbarton Oaks Museum is a hidden gem in Washington DC.

Phone: +1 202-339-6400

Address: 1703 32nd St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

Website: doaks.org

10. Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens in Washington DC is truly a hidden gem among the city’s small museums.

This opulent estate showcases 18th-century Russian Imperial and French decorative art, providing visitors with a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of the past.

The museum is home to a stunning collection of artwork and artifacts that once belonged to notable figures such as Catherine the Great of Russia.

From intricate Fabergé eggs to ornate French furniture, the pieces on display offer a fascinating look at the opulence of the time. In addition to the impressive indoor exhibits, Hillwood Estate boasts 13 acres of beautifully manicured gardens.

Phone: +1 202-686-5807

Address: 4155 Linnean Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, United States

Website: hillwoodmuseum.org

11. The Octagon Museum

The Octagon Museum in Washington DC is a unique and charming small museum that focuses on architecture and design.

Housed in a Federal-style building, this museum offers visitors a glimpse into the past and the life of one of the founding fathers of the United States, James Madison. As you step into the Octagon Museum, you are transported back in time to the early 19th century.

The Federal-style house is beautifully preserved, with its elegant architecture and intricate design details. It’s like stepping into a piece of history. The exhibits at the Octagon Museum showcase the history of the building, as well as the life and times of James Madison.

Phone: +1 202-626-7439

Address: 1799 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC 20006, United States

Website: architectsfoundation.org

12. African American Civil War Museum

The African American Civil War Museum in Washington DC is a small but impactful museum that focuses on the history of the United States Colored Troops during the American Civil War.

The museum showcases the contributions and sacrifices made by African American soldiers during this tumultuous period in American history.

Visitors to the museum can expect to see a variety of exhibits that highlight the experiences of African American soldiers, including their recruitment, training, and battles fought during the Civil War.

The museum also features artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that provide a glimpse into the lives of these brave men who fought for their freedom and the future of their country.

One of the museum’s main goals is to educate the public about the often-overlooked role that African American soldiers played.

Phone: +1 202-667-2667

Address: 1925 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Website: afroamcivilwar.org

13. International Spy Museum

The International Spy Museum in Washington DC offers visitors an interactive look at the history of espionage.

This museum showcases a large collection of spy artifacts and devices, providing a unique and educational experience for guests of all ages. As you explore the museum, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of spies and espionage.

From ancient spy tools to modern surveillance technology, the exhibits cover a wide range of topics related to the secretive world of intelligence gathering. One of the highlights of the International Spy Museum is its collection of artifacts from famous spies throughout history.

From hidden cameras to code-breaking devices, these items offer a glimpse into the dangerous and mysterious world of espionage. In addition to the artifacts on display, the museum also features interactive exhibits that allow visitors.

Rating: 8.8

Phone: +1 202-393-7798

Address: 700 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

Website: spymuseum.org

14. The Phillips Collection

Nestled in the heart of Washington DC is The Phillips Collection, a small museum housed in a charming townhome.

This intimate venue offers visitors a unique opportunity to view an exquisite collection of post-Impressionist and modern art. As you step through the doors of The Phillips Collection, you are immediately greeted by a sense of warmth and tranquility.

The townhome setting creates a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for leisurely exploring the artworks on display. The museum’s collection features works by renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Georgia O’Keeffe.

Each piece is carefully curated to provide visitors with a comprehensive overview of the post-Impressionist and modern art movements.

Phone: +1 202-387-2151

Address: 1600 21st St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

Website: phillipscollection.org

15. Rubell Museum DC

The Rubell Museum DC is a hidden gem among the small museums in Washington DC.

Located in the heart of the city, this museum offers a unique and intimate setting for visitors to explore art and culture. Despite its small size, the Rubell Museum DC boasts an impressive collection of contemporary art from both established and emerging artists.

From paintings and sculptures to multimedia installations, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this museum. One of the highlights of the Rubell Museum DC is its commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives and voices in the art world.

Through rotating exhibitions and artist residencies, the museum continuously brings new and exciting works to its visitors. In addition to its exhibitions, the Rubell Museum DC also offers educational programs and events for visitors of all ages.

Phone: +1 202-964-8254

Address: 65 I St SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

Website: dc.rubellmuseum.org

16. Heurich House Museum

Located in the heart of Washington DC, the Heurich House Museum is a grand 19th-century mansion that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s history.

The museum is best known for its beer-brewing history, as it was once the home of Christian Heurich, the city’s most successful brewer in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Visitors can explore the mansion’s beautifully preserved period furniture, which offers a fascinating look into the lifestyle of the wealthy during this time period.

Guided tours are available for those looking to learn more about the history of the house and its former inhabitants, providing a deeper understanding of Washington DC’s past. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and knowledgeable guides.

Phone: +1 202-429-1894

Address: 1307 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036, United States

Website: heurichhouse.org

17. Art Museum of the Americas

Art Museum of the Americas is a small museum located in Washington DC. The museum focuses on displaying roughly 2,000 works by contemporary artists from the Caribbean and Latin America.

Visitors to the museum can expect to see a diverse range of artwork representing the rich cultural heritage of these regions.

From paintings to sculptures, the collection showcases the talent and creativity of artists from different countries. One of the highlights of the museum is the opportunity to explore the vibrant and dynamic art scene of the Caribbean and Latin America.

The artworks on display offer a unique perspective on the cultural, social, and political issues facing these regions. Art Museum of the Americas provides a platform for emerging and established artists to showcase their work to a wider audience.

Phone: +1 202-370-0147

Address: 201 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20006, United States

Website: museum.oas.org

18. The Kreeger Museum

The Kreeger Museum in Washington DC is a small but impressive museum that focuses on art from the 1850s to the 1970s.

The museum is home to a diverse collection of pieces, including works by Impressionist artists and American artists. One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of Impressionist art.

Visitors can see beautiful paintings by artists such as Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas.

These works capture the beauty of everyday life and are sure to inspire and delight visitors. In addition to its Impressionist collection, The Kreeger Museum also features a wide range of American art.

From abstract paintings to realistic portraits, the museum showcases the diversity of American artistic expression.

Phone: +1 202-337-3050

Address: 2401 Foxhall Rd NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

Website: kreegermuseum.org

19. Museum of Illusions Washington DC

The Museum of Illusions in Washington DC is a hidden gem among the city’s many museums.

Located in a small, unassuming building, this museum offers a unique and mind-bending experience for visitors of all ages. As soon as you enter the Museum of Illusions, you are transported into a world of optical illusions and interactive exhibits.

From holograms to Ames rooms, every corner of this museum is designed to challenge your perception and spark your curiosity. One of the highlights of the Museum of Illusions is the Infinity Room, a mesmerizing space that seems to go on forever.

Visitors can walk through this room and experience the sensation of being surrounded by mirrors and lights, creating a truly immersive experience.

Rating: 8.4

Phone: +1 202-993-5992

Address: CityCenterDC, 927 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Website: moiwashington.com

20. D.C. Alley Museum

The D.C. Alley Museum is a unique and innovative outdoor exhibition located in Blagden Alley in Washington, DC.

The museum showcases contemporary murals painted on garage doors, providing a vibrant and colorful backdrop for visitors to enjoy. As you walk through the alley, you will be greeted by a stunning display of artwork created by talented artists.

Each mural tells a different story and captures the essence of the cultural and artistic diversity of the city. The D.C. Alley Museum is a hidden gem in the bustling city, offering a peaceful and artistic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

It is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking to experience something truly unique and special.

Address: 44 Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Website: dcalleymuseum.com

21. United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington DC is dedicated to preserving the memory of the Holocaust. With permanent and traveling exhibits, the museum educates visitors about the atrocities committed during this dark period in history.

Through educational programs, the museum strives to ensure that future generations never forget the horrors of the Holocaust. Visitors can learn about the stories of survivors, view artifacts from the time, and reflect on the impact of this tragic event.

The museum serves as a somber reminder of the consequences of hate and intolerance, urging visitors to stand against injustice and oppression.

By exploring the exhibits and participating in educational programs, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the Holocaust and its lasting impact on society. Overall, the United States Holocaust.

Phone: +1 202-488-0400

Address: 100 Raoul Wallenberg Pl SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

Website: ushmm.org

22. Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture

The Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture is a hidden gem among the small museums in Washington DC.

Nestled in the heart of the nation’s capital, this museum offers a unique blend of American art and portraiture that is sure to captivate visitors of all ages. As you step inside the museum, you are greeted by a stunning collection of American art that spans centuries.

From classic paintings to modern sculptures, the museum showcases the rich diversity of artistic expression in the United States.

Each piece tells a story, giving visitors a glimpse into the cultural landscape of America. One of the highlights of the museum is its impressive collection of portraits. From political leaders to everyday citizens, the museum features a wide range of portraits that offer.

Address: G St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Website: si.edu

23. National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is a popular Smithsonian museum located in Washington DC.

It is known for its unique exhibits that focus on African American history, culture, and community. Visitors to the museum can explore a wide range of exhibits that showcase the rich and diverse history of African Americans in the United States.

From slavery and the civil rights movement to contemporary culture and achievements, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the African American experience.

One of the highlights of the museum is the collection of artifacts and memorabilia that tell the story of African American life throughout history.

From clothing and artwork to music and literature, the exhibits provide a fascinating glimpse into the cultural heritage of African Americans.

Phone: +1 844-750-3012

Address: 1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, United States

Website: nmaahc.si.edu

24. O Museum in The Mansion

The O Museum in The Mansion is a unique and intimate small museum located in Washington DC. It offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience that combines art, history, and creativity in a beautiful and historic setting.

The museum is housed in a stunning mansion that dates back to the 19th century, adding to the charm and allure of the space.

Visitors can explore the various rooms and corridors, each filled with intriguing artifacts, art pieces, and installations that tell a story of the past and present.

One of the highlights of the O Museum in The Mansion is its eclectic collection of art and artifacts from around the world. From ancient relics to contemporary art pieces, there is something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.

Phone: +1 202-496-2020

Address: 2020 O St NW, Washington, DC 20036, United States

Website: omansion.com

Small museums in Washington DC offer a unique and intimate experience for visitors looking to explore a specific aspect of history, culture, or art.

These small museums provide a more personal and in-depth look at their subject matter, allowing visitors to delve deeper into a particular topic.

While they may not have the same name recognition as larger institutions in the city, small museums in Washington DC offer a hidden gem of knowledge and inspiration waiting to be discovered.

Whether you are interested in local history, niche art collections, or specialized cultural exhibits, small museums in Washington DC have something to offer for everyone.

So next time you are in the nation’s capital, be sure to explore these smaller museums for a enriching and immersive experience.

Tony Spadafora

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Important Notices

Summer Tuesdays: More sun means more fun! We are open for select Tuesdays during July and August. Purchase tickets now .

spark curiosity + ignite creativity

Open every day except tuesdays 9:30 am – 4:30 pm.

closed tuesdays, thanksgiving day, and christmas day

Summer Tuesdays are here!  The Museum will be open on select Tuesdays during the months of July and August.

tickets are required for admission

$18.95 per person

children 1 and older

Children under 1.

Looking to visit during our off-peak hours for a quieter experience? We recommend coming on weekday afternoons when large groups are less likely to be in the space. For more tips for a great visit, check out our frequently asked questions !

memberships

enjoy the wonder of the Museum year-round and access fun-filled benefits

field trips

connect and expand on STEAM subjects presented in the classroom

1300 pennsylvania avenue nw washington, dc 20004

Our entrance is near the intersection of 13th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, adjacent to the Ronald Reagan Building. Look for our blue awnings!

Steps away from Federal Triangle and three blocks from Metro Center. Nearby bus routes include 30N, 30S, 32, 33, 34, 36, D6, and P6.

Street parking is limited. Parking garages are available within a few-block radius, including in the Ronald Reagan Building (starting at $20 for one to two hours).

school bus dropoff

For field trips and group visits, a safe drop-off point is available following 12th Street NW heading south between Pennsylvania and Constitution Avenues.

Bluestone Lane , the Australian-inspired coffee, café, & lifestyle brand, is located within the Museum’s Playzone on floor 2. There is a separate entrance and seating area accessible directly from Woodrow Wilson Plaza.

Offerings include popular plates such as, Avocado Smash and Banana Toast, as well as a range of grab-and-go delights exclusively curated for kids. In addition to the premium coffee, wellness drinks, and signature cold-pressed juices, adults 21+ can purchase beer, wine, and cocktails, which may be responsibly consumed in the Museum. Outside alcohol is prohibited.

a Museum for all Dreamers

accessibility

Exhibits are ADA compliant. An elevator and lift connect the Museum’s three floors.

mothers room + stroller parking

The Mothers Room is located on Floor 1, near the elevator and the Little Dreamers toddler space. Stroller parking is available on Floor 2 of the Museum.

open captioning

All videos with audio content are captioned.

sensory backpacks

Sensory backpacks are available to borrow at no cost and include noise-reduction headphones as well as fidgets to help ease sensory stimulation.

One wheelchair is available to borrow. A photo ID is required and will be held at the admission desk until the wheelchair is returned.

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Explore the wonder-filled world that awaits!

Visiting Smithsonian Castle in DC: Everything You Need to Know

T he Smithsonian Castle is a beautiful neo-Gothic building towering over the National Mall in Washington DC. “The Castle” is actually the Smithsonian Visitor Center, and you should check it out before going to the other Smithsonian museums around the city. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Smithsonian Castle .

As soon as I learned there was a “castle” in Washington DC, I was all over it! And it’s free to visit, which makes it even better!

A visit to the Smithsonian Castle is a must before visiting the other Smithsonian museums in DC. In this guide, I’ll tell you everything you need to now about visiting this unique museum, including how to get a tour, what to see while you’re there, and where to stay nearby.

Smithsonian Castle Overview

The Smithsonian Castle, sometimes called just The Castle, is officially called the Smithsonian Institution Building . It’s the Smithsonian’s first and oldest building as it was built to be the institution’s administrative building.

Today, the Castle serves as the Smithsonian’s visitor center for all of their museums. It’s a great starting point before you visit the other Smithsonian museums as the Castle has information about what’s going on at each museum for that day, in-house experts who can help guide you on your visit, and a collection of treasures from each museum.

History of the Smithsonian Castle

James Renwick, Jr. designed the Castle as part of a design competition in 1846. The Castle was built in 1855 as the institution’s administrative building and visitor center in Washington DC

Just 10 years after it was built, the Castle caught fire and lost many important artifacts: the correspondence of James Smithson, the namesake of the Smithsonian; 200 oil paintings of Native Americans by painter John Mix Stanley; and so many more priceless treasures were lost to the fire. The building was then further fireproofed and expanded over the years.

The Gothic Revival and Romanesque building strikes a commanding pose on the south side of the National Mall . It has nine towers in all, though only four have occupiable space; others are simple decoration or house stairs.

Touring the Smithsonian Castle: What to See

You don’t have to visit the Castle before going to the Smithsonian museums, but it’s a great starting point if you need any help planning your visit to DC as it is technically the visitor center for all the Smithsonian museums.

You can see what’s going on at the museums for that day and get help from an in-house expert on what to see and do on your visit.

In their America’s Treasure Chest display , you can find items from each of the Smithsonian museums on display, so you can get a taste for what’s on at each of the museums. This is also nice if you have to miss a museum, you can still see a little of its artifacts.

And a crypt inside the north entrance holds the tomb of James Smithson, the namesake of the Smithsonian.

You can also learn more about the Castle and DC through interactive exhibits and maps on display throughout the museum.

There is a free docent-led tour of the castle where you can learn more about the building’s architecture and history. This tour is offered twice a day and is a great way to see the castle and to learn even more about it.

Visiting the Smithsonian Castle

Admission: The Smithsonian Castle is free to visit .

Hours: Note: The Castle is currently closed for renovations. The Castle is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The castle’s free docent-led tours of the building take place at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Address: 1000 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560

Hotels Near the Smithsonian Castle

Find a place to stay near the Smithsonian Castle. Here are the closest hotels to this impressive museum:

• Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf
• Holiday Inn Washington Capitol-National Mall
• Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
• citizenM Washington DC Capitol Hotel
• Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall

Smithsonian Castle FAQ

Can you go inside the smithsonian castle.

You can go inside the Smithsonian Castle. They offer an exhibit with pieces from each Smithsonian museum, tours of the building, and interactive exhibits.

Note: The Castle is currently closed for renovations.

What is the story behind the Smithsonian Castle?

The Smithsonian Institution Building was built in 1855 to house the administrative offices of the Smithsonian Institution. The Castle’s design came from prominent New York architect James Renwick, Jr.

Did anyone live in Smithsonian Castle?

Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian, and his family lived in the East Wing of the Smithsonian Castle.

What is inside Smithsonian Castle?

The Smithsonian Castle houses the administrative offices of the Smithsonian Institution and the Smithsonian Information Center (essentially the visitor’s center for the museums). It also has the crypt of James Smithson, the benefactor of the Smithsonian. There are also interactive exhibits and a collection comprised of pieces from each Smithsonian museum on display.

Castle Count: 30

So why does this castle count? These American castles would never count if I weren’t playing it fast and loose with my “castle” designation. I like the idea of this castle being in the capital — the nation’s most important city should definitely have a castle in it! Plus, I’ve always been a sucker for Gothic castles.

Save on Washington DC’s Top Attractions

Want to save big on Washington DC’s top attractions ? With the Washington DC Sightseeing Pass , you can save up to 60% on the cost of entrance tickets to museums, tours, and attractions all around the city!

Visit bucket list attractions, enjoy top tours, and discover hidden gems handpicked by local experts. With one price and one pass, you have everything you need right on your phone. This is the perfect pass for visiting Washington DC!

Get your Washington DC Sightseeing Pass here.

Top Washington DC Tours

• DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour
• Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour
• Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards
• Washington DC “See the City” Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour

Where to Stay in Washington DC

Find the perfect place to rest your head on your visit to Washington DC, from the top rated accommodations to unique stays you can’t get anywhere else.

• Where We Stayed: Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center or the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf
• Top Hotel: The Hay-Adams
• Great Value: Phoenix Park Hotel
• Unique Stay: Unique DC Row House Near Historic H Street

Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center

We enjoyed our stay at the Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center when attending an event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

This hotel has a great location. It’s just on the edge of Chinatown and is within easy walking distance to the National Mall and all the tourist hot spots. There are plenty of restaurant options and nightlife nearby.

Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf

We love the location of the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf , though the hotel’s customer service could use some work.

The Wharf is a great spot to be for beautiful waterfront views and lots of dining and nightlife . It’s also only a 10-15 minute walk from two different Metro stations, and it’s really easy to get to and from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

More Washington DC Resources

• 29 Best Things to Do in Washington DC
• 22 Free Things to Do in Washington DC
• 14 Best Restaurants in Washington DC
• Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC
• Best Rooftop Bars at The Wharf in Washington DC
• Where to Eat in Chinatown, Washington DC
• One Day in Alexandria, Virginia: Day Trip from Washington DC
• One Day in Baltimore, Maryland: Day Trip from Washington DC

Ready to visit the Smithsonian Castle in Washington DC? Plan your trip with these tips.

• Book your flight:  Find the cheapest flights using  Skyscanner , my favorite flight search engine.
• Find accommodation: You can find top hotels in Washington DC using Hotels.com.
• Get packing:  Make sure you’ve packed everything you need with my packing list resources .

Have you visited the Smithsonian Institution Building, aka the Smithsonian Castle? Let me know in the comments!

The post Visiting Smithsonian Castle in DC: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Paige Minds The Gap .