National Postal Museum
2 Massachusetts Ave. NE, Washington DC, Washington DC, USA, 20002
Located in Washington DC’s grand, historic City Post Office Building, the National Postal Museum tells the story of the United States Postal Service and other international postal services. One of the city’s many Smithsonian institutions, the museum has been a popular stop for history lovers since opening in 1993.
The basics
In many ways, the story of the US Postal Service is the story of America—and the National Postal Museum chronicles this history in all its sweeping scale. Home to a vast collection—including the National Philatelic Collection (which contains more than 6 million historic stamps), photographs, interactive exhibitions, rare artifacts, and postal vehicles ranging from historic stagecoaches to modern planes—the museum offers an expansive view of this area of national history.
Thanks to its convenient location near Washington DC’s Union Station, planning an independent visit to the National Postal Museum is easy. The museum’s exterior can also be admired during hop-on hop-off bus tours of the city.
Things to know before you go
Admission to the National Postal Museum is always free.
Volunteer-led collection highlights tours are offered on most days; research timings before your visit.
The National Postal Museum is home to a museum shop, including a specialist stamp store.
The museum is accessible to wheelchair users, and wheelchairs can be rented on-site on a first-come, first-served basis.
How to get there
The National Postal Museum is at 2 Massachusetts Ave NE, just a few blocks north of the United States Capitol. Union Station, served by mainline Amtrak trains and the Red Line of the DC Metro, is located right across the street. The area is also served by numerous bus lines and can be easily reached by taxi or rideshare service.
When to get there
The National Postal Museum is open daily, except on Christmas Day, from morning until early evening. It is particularly busy during the summer, weekends, and school holidays; consider visiting during other times of the year, and on weekdays, for a calmer experience.
Popular Smithsonian museums
As a collective, the Smithsonian Institution is one of Washington DC’s top attractions, and it operates 20 individual museums and the National Zoo. In addition to the National Postal Museum, other popular stops include the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the National Portrait Gallery.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!