I feel like I just go through and and five star everything in dc But I'm a proud American and everyone should come and see our founding documents. A very lovely building with nice gift shop and some interactive activities. Not the biggest must see but should be done read more

How can you not give this place 5 stars... It's history in the greatest form. This is were there's an actual version of the US Constitution and the Declaration of Independence on display. So cool. What I didn't know was how big these things are. It's not on 8.5x11" paper. These documents are pretty faded but they're well over 100 years old... You can also see the Magna Carta which I believe is the oldest document there. That thing is small too... I wonder if the founding fathers went big to make a point. I didn't explore much more as I was walking by at 4:30p and they closed at 5:30p, so I just went in for the money shot and worked my way out. I'd go back to explore this place even more, but if you have time to spare, GO HERE! read more

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An important part of our nation's history, unfortunately, you really couldn't see the documents due to what it looks like fading and the lights being very dim. I'm sure that's something to do with preservation. I think there was some way to preserve the document while allowing you to really see it. The security in the room was really good at explaining various things. read more

National Archives Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Went here to see the Declaration of Independence, The Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. I went around 3pm. There was a little bit of a line out. I didn't have a timed ticket but still stayed in the time ticket line and come to find out they don't check tickets. Just your basic security check. From there I walked across the street to visit the Natural History Museum read more

National Archives Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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--Location/Parking-- Located near the National Gallery Sculpture Garden and the National Mall. I saw some limited paid parking, since I rode the metro to get there, I didn't look at the parking situation on the number of cars the paid lots can hold. Note, you must enter on the right side of where the historic stairs are located. --Ambience-- Looking to view the Constitution? Check. Bill of Rights. Check. Declaration of Independence? Check. This is a great spot for history buff. I got in without a reservation, but I didn't have to wait long to get into the museum. Be warned because of preservations of the documents, many of the lights are dimmed for obvious reasons. --Service/Staff-- There were several helpful guides and the usual security watching the place. Nothing that stood out for a typical museum. --Products-- I swung by the gift shop, which housed many cool puzzles, trinkets and historic pieces. I was impressed with the shop itself and how much items you can purchase based on US History. --Overall-- My number 1 stop for anyone in the Washington DC area because of how many important historical artifacts that are on display here. read more

During our trip to DC this time, we also visited the National Archives Museum. Our main purpose was to see the Declaration of Independence. We saw the Declaration, Constitution of the US, read the details, several other historical records were also on display, well explained with the relevant background. These documents are on display at the top floor in the Rotunda hall. The lower floor has the Magna Carta on display. Must try on your next visit, it's surely informative and worth the visit. read more

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DC is such a trip because there is so much history right in your face. The Declaration of Independence is just right here? The actual Constitution is here? We still have that? BLOWS my mind. WE THE MF PEOPLE! I felt like a little kid back in a candy store being in the National Archives Museum. Looking at the actual signatures page of the Constitution gave me chills. I felt like I was watching Conor Mcgregor's rise through the UFC or watching Kobe give his heart and soul battling the stacked Celtics in 2010 all over again. Our Founding Fathers were so gangster. Oh you redcoats wanna tax our stamp and tea? WELL WE GOING TO WAR THEN. So much respect. More than willing to pay the ultimate price in the name of Freedom. That Nathan Hale quote before he is literally about to be hanged gets me everytime: "My only regret is that I have but one life to lose for my country." Damn I'm getting chills again. You guys will never understand the sheer will power it took to not open this review with a Nic Cage joke, but I am truly God's strongest soldier. I did, however, buy a full size version of the Declaration to pay homage. I also bought a windbreaker. I LOVE DC! IG @jnov_ Tiktok @jnov__ read more

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It's hard to believe pieces of paper will shock you, but this museum makes it so. Lots of information to learn and quite friendly staff. Security guards were also playing trivia with the visitors and were quite knowledgeable. Great for any history fan. read more

National Archives Museum - Founding Documents Hall - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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My wife and I love history and have enjoyed exploring the important sites of American history in D.C. The National Archives were on the list for a while and we got to visit here this past May and we loved it. Tickets are free and you can either reserve them ahead of time or you can wait in a walk-up line. We did the walk-in as we were hopping from site to site and we didn't have to wait long on Memorial Day weekend. The room that houses the documents is large and is shaped in a half-circle and you can view the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and The Bill of Rights and there are separate rooms for other historical documents including a copy of the Magna Carta and the German surrender documents for WWII. Seeing these documents was an amazing experience and something that everyone should do when they're in D.C.! read more

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Beautiful inside. It was spacious. I enjoyed looking at the gift shop and i dont think the cafe was that good?

Like everyone who comes here, we came to see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Being a teacher and also a History major, I have seen these Founding Documents in books, online research and in the movies. We stood in line and the docent told us that there is no "official line" to see the documents. That made it interesting. Once we got into the gates, we noticed that there were additional displays around the documents that gives a history about them. From the left, I came to the Declaration. It was incredibly awe-inspiring to be in its presence. I just stood there staring at it. It was incredible, yet sad. I noticed that the bottom portion of the Declaration is fading. You can definitely see John Hancock's signature. The Constitution and the Bill of Rights seem to be in better shape. Their writing is not as faded. The lighting in this room is dimmer than other rooms for obvious reasons and there are 2 large frescoes framing the room. They are quite impressive. We didn't see other documents as we went towards closing time. There are several other rooms that we will need to visit on a return visit. There is also a gift shop that sells everything you could possibly imagine. I bought a copy of the Declaration and it is now up in my classroom. It didn't cost much- around $8ish. The admission, like most of the buildings and museums in D.C., is free. You can either make a reservation, or not. Doesn't really matter since the lines go in fast. I will definitely come back. read more

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Housing some of the most valued documents in history, this museum is a must-see in DC! We reserved our timed-entry tickets for 10:00AM on a weekday and were surprised that there was no line to go through the security check. Starting on the first floor, the Magna Carta from 1297 takes center stage... yes, the actual document! The remainder of the exhibit featured a number of historical artifacts like documents related to the Chinese Exclusion Act, Civil Rights Movement and Women's Equality & Suffrage. Rosa Parks' fingerprints were even on display. This was a very enlightening walk through history and makes you realize how far we have come. On the second floor, we started out in the "Power & Light" exhibit which showcased a collection of photos from Russell Lee who captured the daily lives of American families, specifically miners. Every photo had a story behind it and gave us glimpses into the coal communities. Finally, for the main event, we went into the Rotunda where the actual Constitution and Declaration of Independence are displayed. Above is a huge mural featuring all the men who signed the documents. Signposts on the floor identify the names of each individual represented. Overall, the lighting is fairly dark in the Rotunda, possibly to discourage photography, since some displays specifically state photos are not allowed. The area is heavily guarded with security as well, which is not surprising. As for food, there's a café on the ground floor, but the museum is a few minutes' walk from French Quarter where there are plenty of restaurant options. If it's your first time in DC, I'd put this museum at the top of your list, just due to the historical significance of all the archives that shaped our country. read more

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For people who are deeply interested in American history and looking at preserved documents. The founding documents are located in the Rotunda and are very faded. There isn't a set order to viewing the documents so I can see how hectic and chaotic it may get when crowded. A couple of the exhibits were closed for renovation. On the 2nd floor they have a copy of the Magna Carta. read more

No entrance was allowed from the main stairs leading up to the archives. Instead the group entrance was to the right side of the stairs and the general entrance was to the left. Once inside I had to clear security and had my bag xrayed. Water bottles were ok to bring inside. The rotunda housed the three most important documents for the US: Declaration of Independence, Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Multiple panels around them contained a bit of history behind the documents and people involved. Quite interesting to read through. There was no queues for the documents so one could hop around but for the most part people just went from left to right until they finished looking at everything. The two large murals above contained many of those involved with creating or signing the documents. Two signposts to identify each person was posted in the middle of the floor. I thought the documents seemed faded but could be due to the dim lighting that was intended to protect them. There was only one other room that I visited since a couple were under renovation as well. This was where a copy of the Magna Carta was displayed along with more exhibits around the Bill of Rights and other topics. Worth visiting to see these founding documents. read more

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If this is your vibe you'll enjoy. Great architecture. So many places to see that are very close together. The Staff is very knowledgeable. Put on your comfy shoes and have fun. The ceiling in the main room is stunning read more

National Archives Museum - LOOK AT THE CEILING - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Great way to beat extremely hot summer temperature in DC by visiting free museums and stay cool and hydrated indoors. Don't miss this one as it offered the allegedly original draft documents of declaration of independence, US constitution and bill of rights in rotunda. You can stroll around Lawrence O'brien gallery as well to learn a few things. There was not much to see except the above mentioned two. Friendly staff. read more

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So moving to see the Bill of Rights, Constitution and Declaration of Independence. The Framers seemed to have got things right. Things may get tested soon. We will see how things pan out if that happens. Well displayed and wonderful to see. read more

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This is a beautiful museum in a beautiful building. Being able to see the original documents of the founding of our country makes this museum a must see! I will break it down below: Content: 5/5 This museum holds the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights and several other incredible documents throughout. It feels awe striking to look at original documents that were held and signed by so many prominent figures in US history. This museum is 2 levels and the building itself is beautiful to look at on the inside. The top level only holds those prominent documents and a nice display of several other important documents and information on them. There is also a couple beautiful paintings of the founding fathers on the walls. There is also a nice display downstairs. The museum is not huge and I wouldn't plan on spending the whole day or even several hours here once you're in. However, when we went it was mid-week and it was not busy at all, so we were able to move fairly quick. Price: 5/5 As with most of the museums in DC, this museum was FREE! this was a nice contrast from the California prices that I'm used to! Parking/Metro: 5/5 for us with the Metro We were going to park but decided on taking the metro in from where we were staying. The metro was extremely convenient and fast for getting all around the city! I would if you are staying here in DC or anywhere near it, I would highly recommend getting the day pass for the metro and leaving the car at the hotel if you get a car at all. If you do decided to drive here, there is parking garages all around. But, I do believe most of them do not allow in and out privileges. Area: 5/5 This is located right next to several Smithsonian museums and not far from the Washington monument. It is very easy to walk around to many different places from here. It is also close to the Metro station or bus stop (which is included in your Metro day pass). Lines: 5/5 For us going mid week during the summer at around 11am, we walked right in with no line. We did have reservations, but it did not matter as there was no line in the standby line either. I would recommending reserving a slot though, because I am sure there are days were this could get very busy! Overall this was an incredible experience and if you are in DC visiting, it is worth the trip! read more

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The museum has some of the most valued historical items to observe, so we felt it was a must-see- We arrived Sunday around 4pm to a nearly empty museum- easy to get through security- but then hard to navigate the exhibits, as I felt it wasn't as well marked as others- there were ample security guards throughout- and the only thing very well marked were entrances/exit paths- The museum itself has a lot of added narratives, making it feel like there was more to see & experience than there actually was- lots of fluff- but overall, it was worth seeing the Declaration- the write outs surrounding it made the large room did create a good narrative experience flow- wasn't my favorite of the museums we visited- but now we can say we did it-(saw it) read more

Stopped on a whim and was totally shocked to see the Emancipation Proclamation on display! The line was long but totally worth the wait. The inner architecture was breathtaking. read more

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I think U.S. history buffs would love it here! Got to see the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights, and the Magna Carta. I glazed through the galleries featuring sports and the archiving process.  Free admission! No photography allowed. read more

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No entrance up the main stairs- need to go to either side depending on if you are there with a group. Simply did general admission (which is free) and the line moves pretty quickly. Lots is closed right now (Oct 2024) as they prepare for some special exhibits so mainly just went to the rotunda. As someone kept very loudly reminding us, there's no line or order to view the documents so it's not a very pleasant experience when it's crowded. They also must have changed their photo policy because photos are allowed as long as you don't use a flash. read more

National Archives Museum - Rotunda - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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What a once in a lifetime opportunity. I went to Washington DC for work and we ate dinner in the National Archives. Yes. No exaggeration we literally had a private tour of the National Archives and then ate dinner. Good food and great information!! read more

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We were here 15 yrs ago when the boys were young & just saw the movie. Since we didn't have a ticket we stood on the walk in line. Here we saw the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. They are getting ready for the 250th independence celebration with new exhibits, galleries & educational spaces. It was very crowded lots of school groups were here. The documents are so old that the look pretty washed out & faded. read more

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This is a must see for anyone coming to visit DC. Timed tickets are not required but getting here early is recommended. You'll go through a security check when entering. Before going upstairs to look at all of the famous documents, take a look in the room straight ahead. Magna Carta is worth seeing. Then after you head upstairs, you'll see a long line to get into the most viewed area. The employees tell you not to stand in that long line but for whatever reason, people still stand in the long line. I got some pictures of the US Constitution and Bill of Rights. Didn't get to see the Declaration of Independence. Too many people crowding around, trying to read the faded documents. People, you can read that stuff online instead of squinting your eyes. Just take some pictures, look at it, and move on. Half a star off because they need a better system to keep the crowds to a min. 4.5. read more

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If you've seen the movie National Treasure, say no more. You MUST visit. Located near the National Mall behind the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden, the Archive Museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for free. Compared to other nearby museums, it's a bit smaller, but still worth a visit to see the original Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and Bill of Rights. They also have one of four originals of the 1297 Magna Carta. They also have other exhibits, a cafe, and clean restrooms. read more

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The National Archives is a must for anyone who loves U.S. history. It's here where you can see the most important, first documents that without, could not have established the United States of America. With that said, you need to visit the National Archives when you're in D.C. When I visited in February 2023, tickets were required for admission; therefore, check if you need to get timed tickets before entering. I was easily able to get a ticket for the desired time slot, and during my visit, the place was not at all busy. I visited in the last two hours of the museum closing and was basically the last one out. Seriously, a security guard had to kick me out. If you're as nerdy as I am and into history, then make sure you plan a good amount of time to go over the different documents displayed here, as well as the special exhibit that's temporarily here. Photos are not allowed here - respect the documents! Most people come here to visit the one room where the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights are located. The room is the most secured room with the most staff, and is the darkest and coldest room here. This is on purpose to help preserve these old documents. The documents are displayed in glass cases, which can make for some difficulty for reading all the details. But be mindful of the crowds of people hovering over the glass cases to see the documents, so if there's a line of people waiting, wait in line. If this is the only reason why you're visiting the National Archives then you won't need that much time. But you'll miss out on the other awesome items to see in the other rooms. In the first room most people enter are other important documents displayed throughout history, and it's more of an interactive exhibit where you can learn about the different documents, like legislative bills passed, letters from elected officials, etc. It's pretty cool to see. The special exhibit is also worth a gander. When I visited, it was an exhibit on sports figures, learning about the different athletes and sports played throughout history. I don't think this museum is for everyone, but if it is for you, then you will love visiting the National Archives. It was of course, cool to see founding documents in person. But I was able to see and learn about other documents that have shaped America's history. Pretty cool stuff here! read more

National Archives Museum - Entrance - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Seeing the Magna Carta, Declaration of Independence, and Constitution is something you won't forget. These documents importance is beyond what words can describe. Thank goodness for our bill of rights. Going here is an experience to put it mildly. Goose bumps. My favorite is still John Hancocks large print to King George. Definitely an eloquent way of sending a certain fingered gesture! This is quite a busy exhibition, but considering what this is, that is to be expected. Security does a professional job of keeping folks moving. Due to age the original documents aren't as clear as they used to be. This branch of government is doing all they can, to keep them in the best condition possible. These papers are important to all Americans. Also they are an example to the world, as many countries have adopted tenets from these documents. By all means visit here. read more

National Archives Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This museum was one of my favorites during our visit in DC! We purchased our tickets online to save ourselves time when we got to the museum and we're so grateful we did. Because they're was a line out the door to purchase and wait for tickets when we went. When we walked in, we went up stairs and ventured through the history of the various documents. It was incredible to see the documentation of our history after learning about it in school for so many years! But the best part was going into the actual vault and seeing the Bill of Rights, the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. It was rather chaotic because the guards were telling everyone that there was no line, but we all wanted to see everything and be mindful of each other's space so we made a line while others were pushing and shoving to get in between people. All in all, we had a great experience! I would come back even after seeing everything once! If you have never been, don't think twice- it just makes you appreciate learning everything growing up so much more! read more

National Archives Museum - Outside - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

What else is there to say? Every American of any age needs to visit this place at least once. To see the founding documents of this country is humbling. If these pages could talk... read more

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I couldn't speak more highly of our interactions with the staff here, we were visiting with our son in his stroller and someone immediately gave us detailed directions on how to reach the rotunda via their accessible route. Upon entering the rotunda, a kind member of staff broke down the locations of each of the documents and the information available in the surrounding displays. The Bill of Rights is in especially good condition compared to the Declaration of Independence, and was for me the most captivating to view. An absolute must visit for anyone with even the slightest interest in American history! read more

In the Rotunda I saw the original Declaration of Independence and Bill of Rights. On that same level there is Public Vault that housed records of a variety of events. The David Rubinstein Gallery had displays like Women Suffrage, conditions in The Workplace, Equal Pay for Equal Work, etc The lower level had a small cafe. This is a great place if you are a history person. It took me about 1 1/2 hours to see it. No photos allowed. read more

just like in the movies, I found the treasure wasnt really a secret now. so, yea, nic cage movie based on this museum! lol, this has been around a bit longer, but who are we kidding, go watch the movie and then see the place. ok, we did it the other way around, which you might want to depending on how far off the handle your kids might take it. we were lucky enough to be here for Juneteenth, so we also got to see the Gettysburg address IRL! (looks old!) four score of miles of walking on this vacation! at least its AC inside! bill of yelps read more

This museum offers a unique lens into how documents and artifacts of national significance are preserved for future use and reference. When I visited, they had a fun exhibit featuring trailblazing sports athletes with details on their lives and accomplishments. There was also an exhibit on the process of archiving. This was interesting, but I felt I would have enjoyed seeing more of the actual archives rather than quite so much detail on how archiving works. On view in the main rotunda, you can see notable documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, however there are fairly long lines to access this area. read more

The National Archives Museum is a smaller museum than some of the other ones in the area but they hold some of the most important documents in American history, like the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Like the other museums in Washington D.C., this museum is free. As you walk through the museum you'll see some copies of certain documents and the history of them. If you're here though, you're looking for the real things. Head up to the rotunda and you'll come across a dimly lit room with security guards all over. The reason why it was dark was to preserve the documents and protect them from light, and the security guards are there to ensure you do not use any photography. They were very strict (I got a stern talking to by a security guard just by having my phone out) so I wouldn't take any risks. Even without any photography, it was pretty cool to see such historic documents up close. read more

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This was my first visit since visiting several times for school field trips as an elementary school student. It was such an ideal beautiful day for visiting museums and sightseeing around DC. Though this museum was not initially on the list, it was suggested by some other sightseers as we navigated the area. Since it was about two hours before closing, the museum was not very crowded. We actually walked in, went through security and was able to observe the exhibits on the first and mezzanine levels within the allotted time. The museum was complete with exhibits such as the Declaration of Independence, the Civil Rights Movement, the Magna Carta, American Women and the Right to Vote along with many others. I must return soon to really take my time and absorb all of the information. Photographs are not allowed in the museum. However, I captured some pretty good exterior photos. Outside of the museum, there were a few remaining food trucks offering a variety of food and beverages. It appeared that most of the trucks had left for the day. In addition to portable food selections, there are also some great restaurants within walking distance. It was an enjoyable experience. read more

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Had a great time visiting here!! We didn't have to wait in line at all and we just got walk in tickets which are free. We loved seeing all the original documents and it was so cool to see everything so well preserved, even the Magna Carta from the 1200s!! read more

National Archives Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

We heard the lines were long, but we came on a Friday during school season and the line was nothing. This is a piece of American history I believe every patriot should see. Things you should know: I. PARKING Your best bet is to find a garage to park in. Street parking is slim. Unless you have an app to help you receive free parking, expect to pay a fee. II. SERVICE Security will efficiently filter viewers into the building. You'll notice staff within the room that the documentation is stored; they're helpful in guiding you through questions and where the "important three" documents are that you came to see. The staff are walking textbooks, full of knowledge, so feel free to ask away about the Declaration of Independence, etc. III. QUALITY Priceless and worth seeing. Entry is FREE. The ink is fading on the historic scripts so hurry and see it while it's still relatively legible. Photos are prohibited, naturally, to avoid fading the words further. IV. CAPACITY The best time to avoid lines seems to be on a work day, during work hours, when school is in session. read more

National Archives Museum - Exterior - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This classic DC museum is best known for its original copies of some of the most important documents in world history, including The Magna Carta, The Déclaration of Independence, and The Constitution. It's a DC rite of passage to see these documents in the flesh, and they're certainly very cool. What you may not be expecting is that the rest of the museum is incredibly put together and an absolute joy. Their current exhibit on the power of sports brought me to tears. Their focus on Native American sports, racial integration, and gender equality were extremely well done and surprisingly nuanced. Their tribute to Pat Tillman was inspired. Proper homage was paid to some of the trailblazers of American life in a thorough and brilliant way. The focus on gaining rights is also a sight to behold. The museum does a phenomenal job of using historical records to explain the complicated path many groups in America have faced in order to be treated as equal citizens under the law. Many pieces of the history are ugly, and the museum never shows away from accurate portrayals. The interactive exhibits are extremely well done and perfect for children and adults alike. I think an argument can be made that this is the best museum in DC. There, I said it! *edited to add that photographs aren't allowed inside!* read more

National Archives Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Getting in without a ticket was a snap. We arrived at about 9:30AM on a Wednesday (school in session) and were on the way out by 11AM. Definitely worth the short wait to avoid the madness. Expect school groups. read more

National Archives Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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