Overview:

The National Archives Experience depicts our astounding national mosaic and tells the stories of the American journey to young and old, scholars and students, cynics and dreamers.

Home to the original Charters of Freedom, including the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights, as well as the Public Vaults and O'Brien galleries, Boeing Learning Center and William G. McGowan Theater, the National Archives Experience is a must-see for anyone visiting the nation's capital.

The museum is situated in the heart of the National Mall in downtown Washington, D.C., surrounded by dozens of memorials, museums and historic areas. The Washington Monument, White House and Capitol Building are just a few of the breathtaking structures that surround the museum.

Reservations are not required for entrance to the National Archives Experience, and visitors may wait in the general public line any time the museum is open. However, advance reservations are highly recommended and will allow visitors to avoid the exterior portion of the line, especially during heavy tourist season.

Reserved guided tours are available once daily, Monday through Friday starting at 9:45 am. Timed entries are also available seven days a week starting at 10:15 am. The last entry is 90 minutes before the museum closes.

Click here for more information about the National Archives Experience.

Book Now

Know Before You Go:

Reservations are not required for entrance to the National Archives Experience, and visitors may wait in the general public line any time the museum is open. However, advance reservations are highly recommended and will allow visitors to avoid the exterior portion of the line, especially during the heavy tourist season.

• Print and bring your reservation confirmation letter
• Arrive at the entrance at least 10 minutes prior to the reservation time
• Include all members of your party in the reservation, regardless of age
• Guided Tours are available once daily, Monday through Friday at 9:45 am
• Visitors are subject to security screening
• To help expedite security screenings, visitors are encouraged to avoid carrying backpacks or large bags and wearing metal jewelry, watches or belts
• Photography is prohibited in the exhibit areas
• Food and drink are not permitted