National Archives Museum

See the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution in person.

The National Archives building is home to the Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, and Constitution of our nation. To preserve the documents, photography of any kind is prohibited. Entrance for the general public is found to the left of the stairs near Constitution Avenue and 9th Street. It is busiest during March, April, May, Thanksgiving weekend, and the week between Christmas and New Year, so wait times can take up to one hour. Each visitor must go through a security screening, so it is best to leave large bags and anything metal behind before entering the building. If you want to buy a souvenir, stop by the National Archives store before you go.

Feel free to check out the other exhibits inside the building too. They rotate through exhibits frequently, so there is always something new to see. Once-daily group guided tours are often held at the museum but must be booked in advance. Check out their website for more details. The National Archives Museum is open daily from 10 am to 5:30 pm. This is a great place to visit if you are interested in American history. Take advantage of your time in our nation's capital and stop by this historic building.