History Museums in Washington DC
THE 10 BEST Washington DC History Museums
History Museums in Washington DC
Category types
Types of Attractions
Museums
Museums
Awards
Travellers' Choice Awards winners (including the "Best of the Best" title) are among the top 10% of listings on Tripadvisor, according to the reviews and opinions of travellers across the globe.
Traveller rating
Neighbourhoods
Good for
36 results sorted by traveller favourites
- Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
Art Museums • History Museums
Cleveland Park
•
Open now
History Museums
Cleveland Park
•
Open now
Speciality Museums • History Museums
National Mall
•
Open now
Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
Cleveland Park
History Museums
Cleveland Park
•
Open now
Historic Sites • History Museums
Cleveland Park
Speciality Museums • History Museums
Architectural Buildings • Libraries
Cleveland Park
•
Open now
Speciality Museums • Historic Sites
Cleveland Park
•
Open now
Speciality Museums • History Museums
National Mall
Religious Sites • History Museums
Cleveland Park
•
Open now
Historic Sites • History Museums
Downtown
Historic Sites • History Museums
Cleveland Park
Speciality Museums • History Museums
Art Museums • History Museums
Cleveland Park
Art Museums • History Museums
Dupont Circle
Speciality Museums • History Museums
Cleveland Park
History Museums
Art Galleries • Art Museums
Dupont Circle
Showing results 1-30 of 36
What travellers are saying
- courtneyf150Nekoosa, WI21 contributionsA very nicely laid out museum with so much information! I had my mom and young daughter with so I didn’t spend as long as I probably could have, however the one thing I did notice and appreciate is that the more graphic movies were placed behind walls so my 4 year old could pass over them but were still available for everyone else!Written 7 March 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Ashleynic0leRichmond, VA27 contributionsThe National Museum of African American History and Culture is the most impactful Smithsonian museum. It takes you through the history of slavery, segregation, and the fight for equality, leading to the achievements of African Americans in music, sports, and culture. The exhibits are thought-provoking and emotional, leaving a lasting impression. If you visit one Smithsonian museum, make it this one.Written 22 February 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Farhan HoqueFairfax, VA8 contributionsThe National Museum of American History, located on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., is one of the most significant cultural institutions in the United States. It is part of the Smithsonian Institution and showcases the story of America through a huge variety of artifacts, documents, and fun interactive exhibits. The museum is open every day from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM and is free for everyone, so anyone can visit. It plays a vital role in keeping American history alive, giving people a look into politics, inventions, wars, culture, and social changes. The museum also hosts special events like historical reenactments, lectures, and hands-on workshops, which make learning even more exciting. The museum is really big and has a lot of different areas, with several floors that focus on various parts of American history. One of the coolest things to see is the original Star-Spangled Banner, the huge flag that inspired the national anthem during the War of 1812. Another amazing part is the First Ladies’ Inaugural Gown Collection, which displays the styles and fashions of the first ladies throughout the years. The museum also features the lunch counter from the Greensboro sit-ins, which is an important symbol of the Civil Rights Movement, along with exhibits about transportation, military history, and technology. The building itself is modern and spacious, making it super easy for visitors to walk around and enjoy all the displays.
Visiting the National Museum of American History was an amazing experience that I will never forget. The way the museum showcases real artifacts and tells stories made me feel really connected to history. One of the most surprising and touching moments was when I saw the Greensboro lunch counter. It made me think about the bravery of the people who sat there to stand up against segregation. The museum does a great job of mixing education with emotion, which makes history feel close and personal. I found the exhibits really interesting, but I wish there were more hands-on activities in some parts to get visitors even more involved. Still, this museum is definitely a place everyone should go to if they want to learn about America’s journey and identity.
One exhibit that really caught my attention was the Greensboro lunch counter from 1960. This plain but significant piece of history was involved in a peaceful protest against segregation, organized by four African American college students in North Carolina. As I stood in front of it, I could sense the importance of the moment—how this everyday piece of furniture turned into a symbol for justice. It was both uplifting and thought-provoking to see, reminding me that regular people can make a huge difference in the world.
The National Museum of American History is more than just a collection of artifacts; it tells the story of America’s victories, challenges, and growth. The displays give a detailed view of the nation’s history and encourage people to consider what lies ahead. Whether you love history, are a student, or just want to learn more about the American experience, this museum is a great spot for learning, thinking, and enjoying. If you find yourself in the D.C. area, make sure to check out this must-see museum.Written 28 February 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Jane PRapid City, SD33 contributionsThe building is beautiful and the artwork and artifacts are amazing. The bios and descriptions of their presidency by each presidential portrait are well balanced. It was interesting to see the various styles that painters used.Written 24 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Dr. Mark T. HansteinNichols Hills, OK84 contributionsThis museum is so full of wonderful art. Been coming here for 4 decades and it never disappoints.
Plan on at least 2.5 to three hours.Written 27 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Brittany_11_10Los Angeles, CA1,863 contributionsAfter reading a few reviews on how interactive this museum was for kids, we finally took our toddler here, and we had a great time. Far less busy than some of the other museums in the area (American History and Natural History, to name two), even on the weekend (though we did go in the morning shortly after they opened).
Two of the activities weren't working/were missing components, but there were a number of others that our toddler (and we!) enjoyed. Our toddler also liked sitting in the big truck and pushing all the buttons.
Fun time.Written 16 March 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Robert DBrooklyn, New York5,465 contributionsThe National Museum of the American Indian is well worth a visit. I wanted to see two temporary exhibits there. The first was "Unbound: Narrative Art of the Plains". This interesting exhibit had a Kiowa Battle Dress, ca. 2000, by Vanessa Jennings and a bison robe, "Conductors of Our Own Destiny", 2013, by Dallin Maybee. It reflects the artist's evolution of Native traditional and contemporary art forms.
The other exhibit was "Sublime Light: Tapestry Art of DY Begay". There were many amazing tapestries such as "Mesas . . and Mesas", 2020, and "Winter in the North", 2017.Written 21 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Emily MUnited States1,451 contributionsWe thought the tour was well done and worth the trip. Parking was easy and plentiful, it's to the left after you enter the gate. We enjoyed learning about the history of the veteran's home and the house that presidents used. No pics are allowed in the house, and there's almost no furniture inside, but the tour guide gave good descriptions of what the rooms were used for. The Visitors Center also has nice exhibits. Definitely recommend if you have some extra time in the DC area.Written 26 August 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- ElaineAndGregChesterland, OH3,166 contributionsThis attraction is a solid "4", and I mean that in a good way.
The National Building Museum was originally built as a pension-related structure some time after the Civil War. Congress designated it as a museum in 1980.
This museum is really two or three things. First, for free, you can walk around the outside. it is just a few blocks from the Smithsonian Museum of American Art and National Portrait Gallery. It is maybe a 10-minute walk north of the National Art Gallery. It is a beautiful building surrounded by a 1200-foot frieze of a long line of Union troops. On a nice day, it's a wonderful sight.
Again for free, you can walk and see the enormous lobby inside. It is dramatic. It is popular as a venue for events, so it may or may not be open when you visit, but even if it is closed just go up a level or two and you can view it from above.
The museum shop is really a cut above and, again, entrance is free. The shop is full of all kinds of books and items related to architecture and design. It is almost an attraction in and of itself.
This is an enormous structure and everything I've listed so far is free. The museum itself costs something like $10 and it is kind of mixed. Still, I would come here.
It is mixed because for all of the building's huge size and scope, the museum itself is in rooms around the periphery and totals perhaps fewer than 10 galleries. They are fun, but the amount of content does not quite match the building's scope.
When I visited there were several exhibits, all worthwhile in their own way. One was a review of Brutalist architecture and its presence in Washington, DC. While I dislike that style of architecture (for 15 years I had to look at one outside of my office window), they provide a balanced critique of it. The exhibit politely advocates for preservation, but has some amusing quotes, including one about the FBI headquarters being the ugliest building in America. I think there are worse, and wouldn't mind the wrecking ball ending most, but I appreciated the effort.
Another, more whimsical, exhibit related to futuristic city plans by Frank Lloyd Wright, primarily of Pittsburgh. They've taken his plans and turned them into attractive animations. If you have seen the videogame "Starfield" you will see common elements.
Kids will like the Lego architecture, complete with Lego versions of famous buildings and an area where kids can use Legos to build their own.
This is an off-the-beaten attraction in DC, but has its own charms and is well worth a visit.Written 10 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - NoraatcSudbury, MA41,218 contributionsOn a rainy morning I headed to the the Anderson House, the home of the Cincinnati Society, the nation’s oldest patriotic organization founded in 1783 by a group of officers of the Continental Army who served together in the American Revolution. Its mission is to promote knowledge of the achievement of American independence and to foster fellowship among its members. I read about the Cincinnati Society in Tom Chaffin’s book “Revolutionary Brothers” and this is what sparked my desire to visit its home. Luckily I managed to be there on the last day before the holidays: starting today Anderson House is closed.
A nice surprise was waiting for me: there was a temporary exhibition “Fete Lafayette”, which presented very interesting historical documents about the involvement of the Marquis de Lafayette in the American Revolution war and his stride to include the French fighters for the American Independence in the Cincinnati society.
Larz and Isabel Anderson built their gorgeous mansion, “Florentine villa in the midst of American independence” in 1905, so it serves dual purpose: it educates visitors about the Cincinnati Society and its importance as well as allows access to its gorgeous interior. The decor is a pinnacle of taste. Stunning, just stunning! The ball room alone with its beautiful piano is a treasure, but what about the library, the second floor private rooms, the walled garden, the terrace? Everything is magnificent!Written 21 December 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - tcbphotoSan Manuel, AZ297 contributionsIncredible museum that tells the story and history of law enforcement. Honors those who choose law enforcement as a profession. Well put together displays throughout. Great simulations and demonstrations. The people were the best though. The two security staff were great! The CEO was very friendly and personable. Thanks to those who set up the art display in the DuPont Gallery. Special appreciation for the three folks working in the gift shop. Hope you find some chocolates. 🍫 Thanks also to Matt who took us through a shooting simulation as well as driving. Very informative! We will definitely go back when we are in the area. Easy access from the Judiciary Square Metro station. Excellent!Written 7 October 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- PurpleAnkhFort Washington, MD278 contributionsI went to see a specific exhibit highlighting crafts and sewing. I got to visit the various state rooms and learn cool history facts. I love old buildings and furnishings so getting to see rooms sponsored by different states and what the room looked like at specific times in history was very interesting. Also enjoyed visiting the library but mainly because the architecture of the building was interesting to me. Staff were very nice and helpful when asked.Written 18 May 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- StigJimAlliance, OH712 contributionsThis was my second visit and my wife’s first visit to the Wilson House. Our guide, David, was absolutely top notch. Fortunately, Wilson was president when presidents were still allowed to keep the gifts they received from foreign governments and dignitaries, and that he was so well traveled until his debilitating stroke. As a result, the collection of artifacts is outstanding. The house includes a room that displays the good and bad of Woodrow Wilson, a curious mixture of supporter of segregation while at the same time a progressive reformer.Written 8 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
- Robert DBrooklyn, New York5,465 contributionsThe National Museum of African Art had two new special exhibits. The first was "Bruce Onobrakpeya: The Mask and the Cross". This Nigerian artist drew "The Fourteen Stations of the Cross" and illustrated several books. He is a recipient of the UNESCO Living Human Treasure Award. "Station V: The Cyrenean carries the cross", made in 1969, is a good example of Onobrakpeya's African touch. Simon of Cyrene is dressed in traditional Urhobo (a culture in Nigeria) clothing and the Roman soldier is dressed in the uniform of the colonial era Queen's Own Nigeria Regiment.
The second special exhibit I saw was "Benin Bronzes: Ambassadors of the Oba". The museum had 29 works that were stolen from Benin City in Nigeria. The Smithsonian has agreed to return them to Nigeria. Twenty have been returned and the other nine belong to Nigeria but are on a loan to the Smithsonian. Among the treasures are a plaque from the mid-16th to 17th century depicting musicians and a page holding a ceremonial sword flanking a high-ranking warrior.Written 21 January 2025This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. - Scot CSavannah, GA155 contributionsThis is a Masonic bucket list visit! You don’t have to be a Freemason or a Scottish Rite Mason to visit. All are welcome to visit this free attraction! Be inspired; the pictures don’t do this justice. Please take note of their hours and if you drive here, pay attention to the DC parking signage. The tour is about an hour and a half long. Definitely a hidden gem that most might overlook with all there is to see in DC.Written 4 November 2024This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
When to Visit
- January2 ÂşCColdest month7 days of rainLess busy
- February3 ÂşC7 days of rainVery busy
- March8 ÂşC8 days of rainVery busyBusiest month
- April14 ÂşC9 days of rainVery busy
- May19 ÂşC11 days of rainModerately busy
- June24 ÂşC11 days of rainModerately busy
- July26 ÂşCHottest month12 days of rainWettest monthVery busy
- August25 ÂşC10 days of rainModerately busy
- September22 ÂşC8 days of rainModerately busy
- October15 ÂşC7 days of rainLess busy
- November9 ÂşC7 days of rainLess busy
- December4 ÂşC7 days of rainLess busyLeast busy month