National Museum of American History and its collection

National Museum of American History
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The National Museum of American History, managed by the Smithsonian Institution, is situated in Washington D.C., on the National Mall. The museum was initially opened in 1964 under the name Museum of History and Technology, but it adopted its current name in 1980.

Facilities at the Museum

The museum comprises three exhibition floors, two office floors, and a basement dedicated to selling souvenirs and food. Additionally, there are six more shops scattered throughout the building, a Subway restaurant, and an Italian ice cream stand for visitors to enjoy.

Exhibitions at the Museum

The museum hosts a variety of exhibitions including “America on the Move”, “TV Objects”, “A Glorious Burden”, “American Popular Culture”, and “The Price of Freedom”. These exhibitions showcase iconic items such as George Washington's uniform, Bill Clinton's saxophone, and Dorothy's shoes from The Wizard of Oz.

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ESMuseo Nacional de Historia Estadounidense
FRMusée national d'histoire américaine

History & Anthropology History & Anthropology Archaeology Historic house Industrial heritage Maritime Person & Artist Profession & Craft Railway Religion War

National Museum of American History
1400 Constitution Ave. NW
Washington DC

Visitor information National Museum of American History

Opening hours

Monday
10:00 – 17:30
Tuesday
10:00 – 17:30
Wednesday
10:00 – 17:30
Thursday
10:00 – 17:30
Friday
10:00 – 17:30
Saturday
10:00 – 17:30
Sunday
10:00 – 17:30

Admission

0+Free

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible

Location & Map

1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington D.C.

Discover all museums in Washington D.C.

Exhibitions

No exhibitions in National Museum of American History have been found.

National Museum of American History Reviews

National Museum of American History has 1 rating.

  • Apollo's Insights AI-Generated

    The National Museum of American History in Washington D.C. offers a comprehensive look at the nation's past through its vast collection of artifacts and exhibits. Visitors appreciate the wide range of historical items on display, from the original Star-Spangled Banner to Dorothy's ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz. The museum covers various aspects of American culture, including social, political, and technological developments.

    Many reviewers praise the museum for its engaging and informative exhibits, noting that it provides a good overview of American history. The First Ladies' gowns exhibit and the American Presidency section are frequently mentioned as highlights. Visitors also appreciate the interactive elements and hands-on experiences available throughout the museum.

    However, some visitors find the museum overwhelming due to its size and the sheer amount of information presented. A few reviewers mention that certain exhibits may feel outdated or in need of renovation. Additionally, during peak tourist seasons, crowding can be an issue, potentially impacting the overall experience.

    The museum's central location on the National Mall is seen as a plus, making it easily accessible for tourists exploring other nearby attractions. Many visitors recommend allocating at least half a day to fully experience the museum, with some suggesting multiple visits to cover all the exhibits thoroughly.

    While entrance is free, some visitors note that the museum's cafeteria can be expensive, advising budget-conscious travelers to consider other dining options.

    Overall, the National Museum of American History is generally well-regarded for its educational value and its role in preserving and showcasing American heritage, despite some minor criticisms.

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  • Aggregated rating

    This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.

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