Visiting with Children

Photo of Visitors with Children Arriving at the National Archives Museum

Activities & Things to Do

Boeing Learning Center

Reading in the Boeing Learning CenterVisitors of all ages are invited to drop in for hands-on activities with replica documents, images, maps, posters and more from the holdings of the National Archives in the Boeing Learning Center ReSource Room.  Participate in scavenger hunts, games, and activities based on National Archives collections.

Check the calendar for special programs, including:

  • Family days: Explore National Archives collections and participate in family activities in one of our history-filled family days.  

    No events

Exhibits

Young visitor points to a detail in the RotundaBefore exploring the exhibits, stop by the Boeing Learning Center first to check out a gallery pack. Designed with families and school-aged visitors in mind, gallery packs include activities for each of our permanent museum exhibits. Kids can even wear an archivist’s stack coat to complete their experience!

Children especially will enjoy the Public Vaults exhibit for an interactive and hands-on exploration of the holdings of the National Archives.  Also be sure to check out the 17-foot interactive touch-screen table in the Records of Rights exhibit.

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 or book a guided tour.

Or schedule a visit for your school, scout troop, or civic group to the Boeing Learning Center’s Learning Lab for an immersive group experience. Learn more about student visits, including: exhibit gallery packs, hands-on activities and scavenger hunts, and our immersive Learning Lab experience.

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.