National Archives Museum - The National World War II Museum in New Orleans, Louisiana
1 / 10

National Archives Museum

4.7
·6k reviews·Washington, United States

Home to America's founding documents, this free museum offers a profound journey through the nation's history and ideals.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Loading map...
National Archives Museum - The National World War II Museum in New Orleans, Louisiana

National Archives Museum

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Home to America's founding documents, this free museum offers a profound journey through the nation's history and ideals.

4.7
(6k reviews)

"Go visit the archives! Great exhibits, and the display of some of the most important documents in our nation's history."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Entry! :ticket:

Admission to the National Archives Museum is completely free. No tickets are required for general entry.

Check for Timed Tickets

While generally free, timed entry tickets may be recommended during peak times. Check the official website.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom

Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom

Main Rotunda

See the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. A truly awe-inspiring display of foundational American documents.

Reddit
Records of Rights Exhibit

Records of Rights Exhibit

Main Exhibit Hall

Explore pivotal moments in American civil rights history, including Rosa Parks' fingerprints. A powerful and moving experience.

Reddit
Power & Light: Russell Lee's Coal Survey

Power & Light: Russell Lee's Coal Survey

Temporary Exhibit Space

Discover a surreal and impactful photography exhibit showcasing American life during a specific era.

Reddit
Hôtel de Soubise

Hôtel de Soubise

Marais District, Paris (Note: This is a different location than the US National Archives Museum)

A stunning Parisian mansion housing French national archives, often described as a 'small Versailles'. Free to enter!

Instagram+5
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, But Plan Ahead

The National Archives Museum offers free admission, a huge plus for budget travelers! However, during peak seasons or weekends, timed entry tickets might be recommended to avoid long waits. Check their official website before your visit to see if booking is advised for your travel dates. Reddit

Beyond the Rotunda

While the Rotunda housing the Declaration of Independence and Constitution is a must-see, don't miss the other incredible exhibits. From civil rights history to women's suffrage and fascinating photography, there's a wealth of American history to explore. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful viewing
Crowd
Low
When
Sunday afternoons
Why
Less busy than peak weekend times
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer weekends
Why
Expect higher visitor numbers
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

One of my faves and free for everyone ! 📍national archives museum #france #miainfrance #paris
@mia.in.france
127.1K likes • 820.9K views

Free Entry! :ticket:

Admission to the National Archives Museum is completely free. No tickets are required for general entry. TikTokInstagram+6

Check for Timed Tickets

While generally free, timed entry tickets may be recommended during peak times. Check the official website. Reddit

HIDDEN GEM IN PARIS - National Archives Museum, Hotel de Soubise 📍 …. Located in the Marais, this is a great FREE thing to do in Paris! I also recommend walking around the area, heading to Rue des Rosiers and Place des Vosges (where you can also visit Victor Hugo’s house for free) . . . . #secretparis #parislover #paristourisme #parisjetaime #museumlover #theculturetrip #parisblogger #pariscityvis...
thegingerwanderlust
103K likes • 1.4M views
The National Archives Museum (Hotel de Soubise) in the Marais is an absolutely stunning free museum in Paris ✨ be sure to save this for your next trip, you won’t want to miss it 🫶🏼 #parisstyle #softgirlaesthetic #girlyinspo #femininetravel #parisrecommendation #modernprincess #princessaesthetic #lavieparisienne #vieparisienne #parisvibes #parisianmood #parisnow #parisparis #parismood #parisianlif...
maevestyled
683 likes • 12.4K views

Explore Beyond the Rotunda

Don't miss the 'Records of Rights' and temporary exhibits for a deeper dive into history. Reddit

Gift Shop Treasures

The museum's gift shop offers unique souvenirs related to American history. Reddit

Welcome to… . 📍hôtel de soubise ! ☀️this is a stunning museum featuring the French national archives in a beautiful city mansion 🎀it has one of my favourite museum interiors in Paris ! 🥐the best part is that it’s completely free for everyone :) 🇫🇷for more Paris recommendations checkout my Paris guide ! (Link in bio)
mia.in.france
108.4K likes • 1.2M views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Entry! :ticket:

Admission to the National Archives Museum is completely free. No tickets are required for general entry. TikTokInstagram+6

Check for Timed Tickets

While generally free, timed entry tickets may be recommended during peak times. Check the official website. Reddit

Explore Beyond the Rotunda

Don't miss the 'Records of Rights' and temporary exhibits for a deeper dive into history. Reddit

Gift Shop Treasures

The museum's gift shop offers unique souvenirs related to American history. Reddit

Cafe on Site

A cafe is available in the basement for refreshments, though meals can be pricey. Reddit

Stunning Architecture

Appreciate the building's architecture and artwork, including ceiling designs. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(6k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the National Archives Museum for its free admission and the profound experience of seeing the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. The 'Records of Rights' exhibit and other historical displays are also highly regarded for their educational value and engaging content. Some visitors note that the cafe can be a bit pricey, and during peak times, timed entry might be beneficial.

"The only thing I can say is go visit the archives! Great exhibits, and the display of some of the most important documents in our nation's history. We did not get entry tickets, we were there on a Sunday in September and it was not too busy. I think during the summer when it's busier, it's recommended you book an entry time. The gift shop is pretty amazing too 😉"

Lisa Bellak

"They had all the pages of the constitution there, which was lovely to see! 💜 The staff were friendly and there was a Cafe in the basement that served 11 dollar meals(before drink!) 💜
You do not need tickets for this.. So even if you just wanted a cheaper place to eat, it's worth it! It was a really fun trip today! 💜"

winnie Kimmel

"Visited here as part of a tour. I am always impressed by the architectural design of the roundabout in DC. Simply stunning! The 3d tobacco flower designs on the ceilings seem common in a lot of places around here. If you stand there in front of all these documents and the artwork depicting the events, you feel a sense of appreciation for the content. The main rotunda is a bit dim in lighting, but I'm guessing it is all part of the preservation or to avoid glares from the glass."

Liz O.

What People Like

Free admission
Original founding documents
Engaging historical exhibits

What People Dislike

Pricey cafe options

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The National Archives Museum is located at 700 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. It's easily accessible by Metro. The closest stations are Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter (Green, Yellow lines) and Gallery Place-Chinatown (Red, Green, Yellow lines). Many bus routes also serve the area. Reddit

Parking in downtown D.C. can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services. There are some paid parking garages in the vicinity, but they can fill up quickly. Reddit

Absolutely! The National Archives Museum welcomes visitors from all over the world. It's a fantastic place to learn about American history regardless of your nationality. TikTokInstagram+6

Many visitors focus on the Rotunda first. Consider exploring the 'Records of Rights' exhibit next, and then check out any temporary exhibits. The museum is quite walkable, and you can spend as much or as little time as you like. Reddit

Yes, the National Archives Museum is an excellent addition to a day trip in Washington D.C. It's centrally located and can be combined with visits to other nearby Smithsonian museums and monuments. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to the National Archives Museum is free. You do not need to purchase tickets for entry. TikTokInstagram+6

While entry is free, timed entry tickets may be recommended during peak tourist seasons or busy weekends to manage crowds. It's best to check the official National Archives website for the most current information on ticketing recommendations before your visit. Reddit

The National Archives Museum is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, with extended hours during the summer. However, hours can vary, especially on holidays. Always confirm the current hours on their official website before planning your visit. Reddit

No, there is no admission fee. The National Archives Museum is a free public institution. TikTokInstagram+6

While there isn't a formal 'tour ticket' system for general visitors, the museum offers various exhibits that guide you through American history. You can explore at your own pace or join ranger talks if available. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom, featuring the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights, is the main draw. Other highly recommended exhibits include 'Records of Rights' and temporary exhibitions like 'Power & Light: Russell Lee's Coal Survey'. Reddit

Crowd levels can vary. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, while weekends and summer afternoons can be quite busy. Visiting during off-peak hours or checking for timed ticket recommendations can help manage crowds. InstagramReddit

Photography is generally permitted in most areas of the National Archives Museum for personal use, but without flash. However, flash photography is strictly prohibited in the Rotunda to protect the fragile documents. Always look for posted signage. Reddit

Yes, the National Archives Museum has restrooms and other visitor facilities available. There is also a cafe located in the basement. Reddit

The 'small Versailles' reference likely pertains to the Hôtel de Soubise in Paris, which houses the French National Archives and is known for its opulent interiors. This is a separate location from the U.S. National Archives Museum in Washington D.C. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe located in the basement of the National Archives Museum that serves a variety of food and drinks. Reddit

Reviews suggest that meals at the museum's cafe can be around $11 before drinks, indicating it might be on the pricier side for a quick bite. Reddit

Generally, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to consume any personal food items outside the building or utilize the cafe. Reddit

Yes, the museum is located in a vibrant area of Washington D.C. with numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries within walking distance, offering a wide range of cuisines and price points. Reddit

While the cafe offers convenience, it might not be the most budget-friendly option for lunch. However, the free entry to the museum itself makes it a great value, and you can always find more affordable dining options nearby. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is allowed in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom, but flash photography is strictly prohibited to protect the documents. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid obstructing views. Reddit

In most other exhibit areas, personal photography is permitted without flash. However, always check for specific signage in each gallery, as some temporary exhibits may have different rules. Reddit

The Rotunda itself is iconic. The 'Records of Rights' exhibit and any visually striking temporary exhibitions also offer great photo opportunities. The architecture of the building itself is also quite photogenic. Reddit

Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not allowed inside the museum to ensure safety and prevent disruption to other visitors. It's best to leave these items at your accommodation. Reddit

Yes, the grand facade of the National Archives building is impressive and makes for a great exterior photo. The surrounding Pennsylvania Avenue area also offers scenic views and is part of the historic D.C. landscape. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National Archives Museum offers a fantastic, free educational experience for families. While the Rotunda's documents might be best appreciated by older children, the 'Records of Rights' exhibit and temporary displays often feature engaging visuals and stories that can capture younger imaginations. The museum's spacious layout also makes it easier to navigate with strollers. Reddit

Consider focusing on exhibits with more visual elements or interactive components if available. The cafe in the basement provides a convenient spot for a break and a snack. Remember to check the museum's website for any family-specific programming or resources that might be offered during your visit. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

The National Archives Museum is a dream for budget travelers, as admission is completely free! This allows you to experience a significant piece of American history without spending a dime on entry fees. TikTokInstagram+6

While the cafe offers convenience, it can be pricey. To save money, pack your own snacks or plan to eat at more affordable eateries in the surrounding D.C. area. The museum's central location also means you can easily walk to other free attractions like the National Mall and many Smithsonian museums. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the National Archives Museum is an unparalleled destination. Standing before the original Charters of Freedom is a profound experience, offering a direct connection to the nation's founding. The depth of historical context provided by the various exhibits, from civil rights to social movements, is extensive. Reddit

Take your time to explore each gallery thoroughly. Consider researching specific exhibits or historical periods beforehand to enhance your understanding and appreciation. The museum's collection represents a vast repository of American history, making it a rewarding visit for anyone passionate about the past. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charters of Freedom: A Glimpse into American Identity

The heart of the National Archives Museum is undoubtedly the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom. Here, visitors can stand before the original Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. These documents are not just historical artifacts; they are the bedrock of American democracy and identity. The careful preservation efforts, including dim lighting to prevent degradation, underscore their immense value. Reddit

Seeing these documents firsthand is a profound experience, offering a tangible connection to the nation's founding principles. The sheer weight of history in this room is palpable, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in American civics and history. The display is designed to be respectful and awe-inspiring, allowing visitors to contemplate the ideas and sacrifices that shaped the United States. Reddit

While the Rotunda is the main attraction, remember that the journey to understanding these documents extends to the surrounding exhibits. These displays provide context, historical background, and stories of the people who fought for the rights enshrined within these foundational texts. Reddit

Exploring Diverse Exhibits: More Than Just Founding Documents

Beyond the iconic Charters of Freedom, the National Archives Museum hosts a variety of compelling exhibits that delve into different facets of American history. The 'Records of Rights' exhibit is particularly impactful, showcasing how Americans have fought for and expanded civil rights throughout history. It features significant artifacts, including Rosa Parks' fingerprints, offering a powerful testament to the struggle for equality. Reddit

Temporary exhibitions, such as 'Power & Light: Russell Lee's Coal Survey,' provide unique perspectives on American life and culture. These rotating displays ensure that repeat visitors can always discover something new. The museum also often features exhibits on women's suffrage, immigration, and other critical social movements, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the nation's complex past. Reddit

These exhibits are crucial for understanding the ongoing evolution of American ideals and the continuous effort required to uphold them. They transform the museum from a static display of old papers into a dynamic exploration of the nation's journey. Reddit

The National Archives Museum as a Free Cultural Hub

One of the most celebrated aspects of the National Archives Museum is its commitment to free public access. In a city with many paid attractions, this free entry makes it an invaluable resource for everyone, from local students to international tourists. This accessibility ensures that the nation's history is available to all, fostering a sense of shared heritage and civic engagement. TikTokInstagram+6

The museum's location in the heart of Washington D.C. also makes it an easy addition to any itinerary. It's conveniently situated near other major landmarks and Smithsonian museums, allowing visitors to maximize their exploration of the capital. The surrounding area offers plenty of dining options, making it a practical choice for a day of sightseeing. Reddit

This dedication to being a free cultural hub not only benefits individual visitors but also contributes to the broader educational landscape of Washington D.C., making history accessible and engaging for a wide audience. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2