Activities & Things to Do
Family Days
Check the calendar for special programs, including:
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Family days: Explore National Archives collections and participate in family activities in one of our history-filled family days.
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March 21 Thursday
Washington, DC - 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. EDTAuthors Mary Jane Appel and Douglas Brinkley will discuss the 1946 coal miners strike and the work of photographer Russell Lee in documeting the miners and their families. -
March 23 Saturday
Washington, DC - 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. EDTJoin us for the screening of the 2023 documentary film about the complex history and future of the coal industry, the communities it has shaped, and the myths it has created. -
July 8 Monday
Online - 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. EDTThis week-long camp will introduce the basics of family research. Discover how to use the resources of the National Archives to be history detectives into your past!
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Exhibits
Explore our exhibits, including the National Archives Rotunda--home to the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Check out the 17-foot interactive touch-screen table in the Records of Rights exhibit, discover new records in the rotating Featured Documents display, and learn about special exhibition topics in the Lawrence F. O'Brien Gallery.
Visitor Tips
Time
Plan on spending at least 90 minutes visiting the exhibits.
Changing Tables
All restrooms are equipped with changing tables.
Nursing Areas
Nursing is permitted throughout the museum; there are no designated nursing or pumping areas.
Strollers & Bags
Strollers, wheelchairs, mobility devices, luggage, backpacks, and other personal items are permitted in the museum but must remain with the visitors at all times. There are no lockers or coat checks available.
Baby Backpacks & Carriers
Baby backpacks and other types of wearable infant carriers are permitted.
Food & Snacks
The Charters Café is on the lower level and is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m. A seating area with vending machines and an ATM are open all day. (Note that food, chewing gum, and beverages are prohibited in the theater and exhibition areas.)
School Groups
Reservations are not required, but you can reserve a timed entry.
Armed Forces Families
Service personnel in uniform or presenting a valid military I.D., and veterans with proof of service and their families and guests may enter through the Special Events entrance on the corner of Constitution Avenue and 7th Street.
National Archives Store
The National Archives Store is open daily, 10 a.m. to closing.