National Archives Museum

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Opening the Vault

Rotating display in the East Rotunda Gallery bringing rarely seen treasures out of the vaults, with ties to the American Revolution and the Declaration's 250th anniversary.

Now showingFrom 7 May 2025Free

Free and Independent: A Celebration of the Declaration

America250 show marking the Declaration's 250th anniversary, in three parts: the Revolution, the preservation of the original parchment, and how Americans have celebrated independence since 1776.

Now showing25 Apr – 5 Jul 2027Free

Permanent Collections

Discovery Center

Hands-on civics playspace for families, with the Archives Arcade and games such as Democracy Disco, Clause of Power and Speak Out! Aimed at preschool to 6th grade, open to all ages.

Permanent collectionFree

The American Story

Flagship gallery opened November 2025: nine galleries, 40-plus original artifacts and AI-driven displays that let each visitor explore millions of archival records on their own interests.

Permanent collectionFree

Charters of Freedom

The original Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights on permanent display in the domed Rotunda of the National Archives Building.

Permanent collectionFree

The Magna Carta & Records of Rights

An original 1297 Magna Carta anchors a gallery on how generations of Americans pursued rights to free speech, religion and equality, with a 17-foot interactive touchscreen table.

Permanent collectionFree

Nearby

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National Museum of Natural History

HistoryFree4 min walk

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National Gallery of Art

ArtFree4 min walk

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Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

DesignFree6 min walk

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National Portrait Gallery

ArtFree7 min walk

Visitor Information

Is National Archives Museum free to visit?

Yes, general admission to National Archives Museum is free. Free admission for all; reservations are not required. Free general-admission tickets or $1 timed-entry tickets can be booked in advance to reduce waiting, which can exceed an hour at peak times.. Some special exhibitions may charge a separate ticket, so check the museum's website before visiting.

What are the opening hours of National Archives Museum?

National Archives Museum is open Open daily 10:00–17:30, with last admission at 17:00. Closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.. Holiday hours can vary, so check the museum's website before you go.

Where is National Archives Museum?

National Archives Museum is located at 701 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20408, United States (public entrance at Constitution Avenue and 9th Street NW), in the Penn Quarter / National Mall area of Washington, DC. The nearest stations are Archives–Navy Memorial–Penn Quarter (Green, Yellow lines), Federal Triangle (Blue, Orange, Silver lines) and Judiciary Square (Red line).

What can I see at National Archives Museum?

The Declaration, Constitution and Bill of Rights under glass in a marble Rotunda — America's founding documents, free to see. Current highlights include Discovery Center, The American Story and Charters of Freedom.

Do I need to book National Archives Museum in advance?

National Archives Museum is free to enter and most days you can walk in. Free admission for all; reservations are not required. Free general-admission tickets or $1 timed-entry tickets can be booked in advance to reduce waiting, which can exceed an hour at peak times.. For special exhibitions, weekends, and school holidays, booking a timed slot can help you skip queues. Check the museum's website for current requirements.

When is the best time to visit National Archives Museum?

Weekday mornings shortly after opening are typically the quietest, especially mid-week. Late afternoons can also be calmer. Weekends, school holidays, and the lunch rush are the busiest periods.