National Geographic Museum

The Basics

Situated in a heritage building that dates to 1888, the National Geographic Museum is a popular DC institution suited to visitors of all ages. Exhibitions tell the stories of explorers, conservationists, scientists, and other globe-trotting adventurers and include a range of highlights, from iconic photographs to ancient relics. Located just a short walk from many other major city landmarks, including the White House, the museum is an accessible destination that can be explored during a sightseeing day out around town.

The National Geographic Museum features on various hop-on hop-off bus itineraries and is also included in the Washington DC Explorer Pass.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Tickets to the museum can be purchased online, over the phone, or at the ticket office; buying in advance is recommended when possible.

• The museum’s M Street entrance includes a wheelchair ramp, and wheelchairs are available to loan on a first-come, first-served basis.

• Strollers are not permitted in exhibitions, and the museum does not operate a bag-storage facility.

• Food and drink are not allowed on-site, though the National Geographic Society’s café and cafeteria offer opportunity for refreshments.

How to Get There

The National Geographic Museum is located at 17th and M streets NW. To travel by metro, take the Red Line to the Farragut North station, or take the Blue, Silver, or Orange Line to the Farragut West station. The museum can also be reached by dozens of bus lines and is accessible by car, by bike, or on foot.

When to Get There

The museum is open daily 10am–6pm, except on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Last entry is at 5pm. The on-site ticket office is open Monday–Friday, 10am–4pm.

Events at the National Geographic Museum

In addition to its changing exhibitions, the National Geographic Museum and headquarters are also host to diverse event programming throughout the year. Events range from talks and symphonic performances to trivia nights and virtual-reality explorations.

How long does it take to visit the National Geographic Museum?

Visiting the National Geographic Museum in Washington, DC, should take you no longer than 1–2 hours. The relatively compact museum sits on the first floor of the National Geographic Society headquarters. It has two galleries of exhibits about the natural world and the history of scientific expeditions and exploration.

Which is better, the Smithsonian or the National Geographic Museum?

The Smithsonian is the world's largest museum and research complex and is free to enter. If you're between visiting the Smithsonian and the National Geographic Museum, choose the former. The compact National Geographic Museum has two galleries of exhibitions dedicated to the natural world and the history of scientific exploration.

What is the Titanic exhibit at the National Geographic Museum?

The exhibit called Titanic: The Untold Story at the National Geographic Museum in Washington DC covers the massive ship's history, sinking, and past and future searches for its remains. The exhibit has artifacts recovered from the ship, a replica of the ship's interior, and movie props from the 1997 movie Titanic.

Is there free parking at the National Geographic Museum?

No, there isn’t free parking at the National Geographic Museum in Washington, DC. The museum doesn’t have dedicated parking and is in the heart of downtown DC, where street parking is limited—finding a parking garage is your best bet. Farragut North subway station is within short walking distance on Connecticut Avenue.

Do you need reservations to visit the National Geographic Museum?

No, you don't typically need reservations to visit the National Geographic Museum. The museum is relatively compact and not as popular or well-known as the Smithsonian Institution museums nearby—it's rarely crowded. In case it is, you can call ahead of your visit to make sure tickets are available.

Is visiting the National Geographic Museum worth it?

Visiting the National Geographic Museum in Washington, DC, is worth it if you admire the National Geographic Society, the natural world, and the history of scientific exploration and discovery. But, remember that the museum is relatively small—not nearly as grand as the Smithsonian Institution museums nearby.