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National Archives
Type: History Museums, Libraries / Archives, Museums
10Best Says
Remember in school when you learned about America's Founding documents – the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights? All of them can be found at the National Archives... Read More
Remember in school when you learned about America's Founding documents – the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights? All of them can be found at the National Archives Museum. (John Hancock's signature really does stand out!) If that's not enough, visitors can also get a look at one of the four original 1297 Magna Carta documents. The William G. McGowan Theater shows a film history of the museum by day but showcases documentary films by night. Go to the website to see if a program will take place during your visit.
METRO: National Archives/Navy Memorial/Penn Quarter
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Hours:
- Mar - Aug: Daily 10am-7pm
- Sep - Feb: Daily 10am-5:30pm
- Research Center: Mon-Tue, Sat 9am-5pm; Wed-Fri 9am-9pm
Admissions:
- Free
EXPERT TIPS BY:
Gina Gallucci White
Washington Local Expert
- Free Things to Do, Museums: "In order to protect the documents, photography is not allowed so don't try and take a selfie with the Declaration of Independence."
- Best for Free Things to Do Because: You can't leave the nation's capital without seeing the documents that helped start it.
- Best for Museums Because: With the three tiers of government within walking distance, the museum that holds its founding documents is a must-see.
