National Air and Space Museum
Explore the history of flight and space exploration with iconic aircraft and spacecraft. Free admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
National Air and Space Museum
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the history of flight and space exploration with iconic aircraft and spacecraft. Free admission!
"An absolute must-visit in D.C., offering an incredible journey through aviation and space history."
Book Free Tickets Online
Always reserve your free timed-entry passes online in advance to guarantee admission.
Consider Both Locations
The Udvar-Hazy Center has larger aircraft; plan accordingly if you want to see them.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Apollo 11 Command Module
National Mall
See the actual spacecraft that carried humans to the Moon. A truly awe-inspiring piece of history.
1903 Wright Flyer
National Mall
Stand before the groundbreaking aircraft that launched the age of aviation. Inspiring and historic.
Space Shuttle Discovery
Udvar-Hazy Center
Marvel at the retired Space Shuttle Discovery, a testament to human spaceflight innovation.
SR-71 Blackbird
Udvar-Hazy Center
Gaze upon the world's fastest air-breathing jet aircraft, an icon of Cold War aviation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timed-Entry Passes are Essential
+2Two Locations, Two Experiences
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Free Tickets Online
Always reserve your free timed-entry passes online in advance to guarantee admission.
Consider Both Locations
The Udvar-Hazy Center has larger aircraft; plan accordingly if you want to see them.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is a must!
Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least half a day, or a full day if visiting both locations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Free Tickets Online
Always reserve your free timed-entry passes online in advance to guarantee admission.
Consider Both Locations
The Udvar-Hazy Center has larger aircraft; plan accordingly if you want to see them.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so comfortable footwear is a must!
Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least half a day, or a full day if visiting both locations.
Check Renovation Status
Some exhibits may be closed for renovation; check the museum's website before your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Air and Space Museum as an incredible, awe-inspiring destination, particularly highlighting the historical significance of exhibits like the Apollo 11 Command Module and the Wright Flyer. While many acknowledge ongoing renovations, the overall experience remains highly enjoyable and educational. The Udvar-Hazy Center is lauded for its impressive collection of large aircraft.
"This museum is absolutely incredible! I thoroughly enjoyed my visit. The exhibits about space, particularly the Apollo 11 exhibit, were truly awesome. The Wright Brothers exhibit was incredibly inspiring, and the sheer number of gadgets, artifacts, and planes on display was mind-blowing.
When we visited, a significant portion of the museum was closed due to ongoing renovations for new exhibits. However, the overall experience was still enjoyable. I can’t wait to be back to explore the rest of the museum.
The gift shop is enormous and offers a wide range of fascinating items for space enthusiasts. While tickets are free, I highly recommend purchasing them in advance, but be aware that you’ll have to wait in line until your time slot. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our visit!"
Adriana De Pitkin
"A Must-See Destination for Aviation Lovers! ✈️
I traveled all the way to Washington, D.C. specifically to visit the National Air and Space Museum, and it was absolutely worth the trip. The reputation of this museum is well-deserved, and it's a true treasure trove for anyone interested in aviation and space exploration.
I spent a few captivating hours in the Wright brothers exhibit, and it was truly the highlight of my visit. Standing in front of the original 1903 Wright Flyer was a surreal experience.
It’s one thing to read about it in a history book, but it's another to see the machine that changed the world in person.
The exhibit does a wonderful job of telling their story, from their early experiments to their momentous first flight.
It was an incredibly interesting and awe-inspiring look at the dawn of aviation.
Beyond that, the museum is filled with iconic artifacts that tell the story of human ingenuity. Seeing everything from the Spirit of St. Louis to the Apollo 11 command module, you can't help but feel a sense of wonder.
The entire museum is meticulously curated and offers something for everyone, whether you're a serious history buff or a casual visitor.
I highly recommend planning a full day here, as there is so much to see. It's an unforgettable experience and a true testament to human achievement."
G A (TheFamous)
"Newly renovated museum. One of the best to visit if you love air and space exploration and innovation. They host free one hour tours throughout the museum. You can easily spend a couple hours here and best of all it is still free.
Unfortunately not fully finished yet. Some renovations are still o going until 2026. The biggest exposition pieces are not present on this site but in the museum next to Dulles airport."
Jeppe Van Dingenen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main museum is located on the National Mall at 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC. It's accessible via Metro (L'Enfant Plaza or Smithsonian stations). The Udvar-Hazy Center is near Dulles Airport and requires a car or specific bus routes.
Parking is very limited and expensive at the National Mall location. Public transportation or ride-sharing is highly recommended. The Udvar-Hazy Center has a large parking lot, but there's a fee.
It's challenging to visit both locations thoroughly in a single day due to travel time and the sheer size of the exhibits. It's best to dedicate separate days or prioritize one location.
The Udvar-Hazy Center is best reached by car or ride-sharing service. Public transport options exist but can be time-consuming.
Yes, admission to both the National Mall and Udvar-Hazy Center locations is free! However, timed-entry passes are required for the National Mall location.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, free timed-entry passes are required for the National Mall location. These can be reserved online in advance. A limited number of walk-up tickets may be available daily.
Timed-entry passes can be reserved on the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's official website. They are released daily and can be booked up to 30 days in advance.
No, timed-entry passes are not required for the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. Admission is free, and you can visit during operating hours.
The National Mall location is typically open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., closed only on December 25. The Udvar-Hazy Center has similar hours. Always check the official website for the most current information.
A limited number of walk-up tickets are available daily at 8:30 AM for the National Mall location, but it's highly recommended to book online in advance as they are often gone quickly.
🎫 ✈️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include the Apollo 11 Command Module, the 1903 Wright Flyer, the Spirit of St. Louis, and the Milestones of Flight Hall. At Udvar-Hazy, don't miss the Space Shuttle Discovery and SR-71 Blackbird.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly with interactive displays and exhibits like the Barron Hilton Pioneers of Flight gallery, which includes a hands-on kids' zone.
Yes, the museum often hosts free one-hour guided tours that can provide deeper insights into the collections. Check the schedule upon arrival.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect artifacts.
The observation tower at the Udvar-Hazy Center offers a unique view of planes taking off and landing at Washington Dulles International Airport, a favorite for avgeeks.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, both locations have dining facilities. The National Mall location has a cafe, and the Udvar-Hazy Center has a McDonald's and a cafe. You can also bring your own food and drinks to consume in designated areas.
Expect typical cafe fare like sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages. The McDonald's at Udvar-Hazy offers fast-food options.
Yes, visitors are permitted to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy in designated areas.
The National Mall area has numerous dining options, from food trucks to sit-down restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines.
Museum dining can be moderately priced. Bringing your own snacks or a packed lunch can help save money.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture iconic aircraft like the SR-71 Blackbird and Space Shuttle Discovery at Udvar-Hazy, or the Wright Flyer and Apollo 11 module at the National Mall. The observation tower at Udvar-Hazy is great for plane spotting photos. +1
Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted inside the museum to avoid obstructing other visitors and damaging exhibits.
While personal photography is usually allowed, flash photography might be prohibited in certain areas to preserve artifacts. Always check signage.
Weekday mornings often offer fewer crowds, allowing for clearer shots. The natural light can be good, but some exhibits are indoors with artificial lighting.
Absolutely! The sheer scale of the aircraft hanging from the ceiling, the observation tower overlooking the runway, and the detailed exhibits provide endless photo opportunities. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
At the Udvar-Hazy Center, the sheer size of the aircraft is captivating for children, and the observation tower offers exciting views of active runways. Remember to book your free timed-entry passes for the National Mall well in advance. Comfortable shoes are essential, as little legs can get tired quickly. Consider packing snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up between meals.
🚀 Space Enthusiasts
The Space Shuttle Discovery at the Udvar-Hazy Center is another monumental exhibit for space lovers. Its presence, alongside other spacecraft and artifacts, offers a comprehensive look at humanity's reach for the stars.
✈️ Aviation Buffs & Avgeeks
The Udvar-Hazy Center is a dream for avgeeks, housing legendary aircraft such as the SR-71 Blackbird and numerous military jets. The observation tower overlooking Dulles Airport provides continuous plane-spotting action, making it a perfect spot for those who love watching planes in flight.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Two Smithsonian Air and Space Locations
+1The second location, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, is located near Dulles International Airport in Virginia. This vast hangar is home to larger aircraft and spacecraft, including the Space Shuttle Discovery, an SR-71 Blackbird, and numerous other significant planes. Admission here is also free, and timed passes are not required, making it a more spontaneous visit.
Many visitors find it beneficial to plan their visit to encompass both sites if time allows, as they complement each other perfectly. The National Mall location provides the historical context and smaller, pivotal artifacts, while the Udvar-Hazy Center showcases the sheer scale and engineering marvels of aviation and space travel.
Planning Your Visit: Tickets, Crowds, and Renovations
+2Crowds can be significant, particularly during peak tourist seasons and on weekends. To experience the museum with fewer people, aim for weekday mornings shortly after opening. Evenings can also be less crowded as day-trippers depart.
It's important to note that the museum has undergone extensive renovations, with new exhibits being unveiled in phases. While many major attractions are accessible, some areas or artifacts might be temporarily unavailable. Checking the museum's official website for the latest information on renovations and exhibit closures before your visit is advisable.
The Udvar-Hazy Center: A Plane Spotter's Paradise
A unique feature of the Udvar-Hazy Center is its observation tower, which overlooks the runways of Washington Dulles International Airport. This provides an unparalleled opportunity for planespotting, allowing visitors to watch commercial and private aircraft take off and land while surrounded by aviation history.
Beyond the main exhibits, the center also offers educational programs and interactive displays, making it an engaging experience for all ages. It's a place where the past, present, and future of flight converge, offering a profound appreciation for human ingenuity in the skies and beyond.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit