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Welcome to your National Museum of American History! The Museum is open every day except Dec. 25. Admission is free. Please note some areas may be closed due to our upcoming renovation, and some popular objects may be off display - be sure to check what's on view.
Hours
Directions
Food, shopping & other fun things
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Frequently asked questions
Visit the Welcome Center
Visitors at the Welcome Center
Start your visit at the Nina and Ivan Selin Welcome Center for information to help you plan your day at the Museum. Here you can find out what programs are happening that day or pick up a map. If you have a specific question or need assistance, ask one of our friendly visitor services staff.

Lead your own tour through the highlights of the Museum! Pick up a guide at the Museum or download it below.
Self-Guide: Highlights (.pdf)
Self-Guide: For Families with Kids 0-5 (.pdf)
Self-Guide: Addy Walker, an American Girl (ages 8-13)
 
School Group Field Trips
We offer an exciting array of programs and materials.
Visit with your class
Register your group
Watch before you visit! A student orientation video
Watch before you visit! A teacher orientation video
Daily Programs
From live musical and theatrical performances to interactive carts and spotlight tours, there are experiences for you to encounter every day.  
What's happening today?
Exhibitions
Visit the Star-Spangled Banner, the flag that inspired the national anthem. Other exciting displays feature diverse topics from transportation to politics to military history.

Note: Some areas of the Museum will be closing due to the upcoming renovation of our west exhibition wing.  Use the links below to check on the latest information.
What's on view?
Floorplans
Renovation info

Calendar of Events

Location
NMAH Building
On the National Mall, 14th Street and Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C.
Map & Directions
Notice
Visitors may be filmed, photographed, or recorded by the Smithsonian for educational and promotional uses, including for posting on the Smithsonian's and other public Web sites.
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Smithsonian National Museum of American History