United States National Archives - Helpful Travel Information for Washington, D.C. Visitors



The National Archives contains historical documents that tell the stories of America's history as a nation with 33 locations nationwide.

The main archive is located in Washington D.C and is called US National Archives.

US National Archives museum Washington DC four exhibit galleries are:

1). Records of Rights in the Rubenstein Gallery,

2). Exhibits in the Lawrence F. O'Brien Gallery,

3). Public Vaults Permanent Exhibit Gallery, and

4). Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom

At US National Archives in Washington DC you will see:

• The Public Vaults and the Original Charters of Freedom (the Declaration of Independence, The Constitution, and the Bill of Rights).

• Attend public programs, including film presentations, workshops, and lectures.

• Review proposed Federal rules and regulations at the Federal Register

• View Historical Photographs and artifacts

• View Historical Records

More useful information is below in this US National Archives Washington DC travel guide for visitors.

Address

The National Archives is located at 700 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
 Washington, DC 20408-0001
(between Seventh and Ninth Streets, NW) 

The research entrance is on Pennsylvania Avenue. 

The Rotunda entrance, which includes the Exhibit Hall, is on Constitution Avenue.
Admission Fee

US National Archive Museum Tickets:

Entrance to the National Archives is FREE.

Visitors can get tickets in the entry line of The National Archives or get timed tickets to avoid lines.

The convenience fee for online timed ticket reservations is $1.50 per person.

US National Archive Museum Hours:
 
Rotunda and Exhibit Hall - 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m (Daily - Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas)

The last admission is 30 minutes prior to closing.

US National Archive Museum is Closed on Thanksgiving Day and December 25.

Research Center Hours   Monday - Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.  Closed Sundays and Federal Holidays


Reserved visits are available at the following times:

• Guided Tours, 9:45 a.m., Monday through Friday

• Timed Visit Entry, 10:30 a.m. to 90 minutes before closing, daily

• Click here to reserve tickets  - Plan a visit to the National Archives in Washington, D.C
Getting There

To get to The National Archives By DC Metro:

- Take Metrorail Yellow or Green line

- Exit at Archives/Navy Memorial station.

- Walk across the street to the National Archives

Directions, times, and parking information for The National Archives

By DC Circulator Bus to National Archives Museum:

- Take the DC Circulator bus if you are around the National Mall area.

- DC Circulator bus (National Mall Loop) has a stop for the National Archives in Washington, D.C.

- It is economical, convenient, and saves you from way too much walking.

DC Circulator Bus Info - National Mall loop
 Recommendations

Tips for Visiting National Archives in Washington DC:

- Plan ahead, reserve online for the National Archives, the line tends to be long during the busy time of Spring and Summer!  

- Please be advised that Security is strict and - no photos, food/ drinks allowed inside the National Archives building.

- If you have time, combine with tours of the Library of Congress, the U.S. Supreme Court, and the U.S. Botanic Garden.
Website The National Archives in Washington, DC Website