Overview
The National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC is a premier institution dedicated to human flight and space exploration. It houses the largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world.
It is a leading museum for aviation and space history, managed by the Smithsonian Institution.
Location
Address
600 Independence Ave. SW, Washington DC
Neighborhood: National Mall
Coordinates
38.889900, -77.020300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, September-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • spring exhibits
- • National Cherry Blossom Festival
summer
hot and humid
- • extended summer hours
- • outdoor exhibitions
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall exhibits
- • fall foliage
winter
cold
- • holiday decorations
- • holiday exhibits
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Admission is free but timed entry passes may be required
- Check for special exhibits
- Plan for security checkpoints
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • long walks
- • stairs in some areas
Medical facilities: first aid available on-site
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes for walking, walking shoes, inappropriate or revealing clothing
Booking Tips
- • weeks in advance for peak seasons
- • official Smithsonian website
- • 24 hours notice for timed entry passes
- • available via timed entry passes
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Smithsonian Air and Space
Size: 65 MB
Features: Museum map, Audio guide, Event information, Ticket booking
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Throughout the museum, Café and gift shop
Charging Stations: Available in rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Distance: 5 km
Travel Time: 15 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 3 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich in history and free to visit, a great educational experience
Historical Significance: Home to significant aviation and space artifacts, including the Wright Brothers' plane and Apollo 11 command module
Insider Tips
- Visit the museum's rooftop for a unique view of the National Mall
- Check for free docent-led tours
- Arrive early to avoid crowds
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the nearby National Mall
- • Try the food at the Museum's café
- • Explore the Smithsonian Castle
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French, ASL
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main Entrance
Best Time: Early morning with soft light
Tips: Capture the iconic architecture
Result: Great architectural shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Smithsonian Institution Building (The Castle)
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Historical Building
National Mall
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Park
Washington Monument
Distance: 1.2km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Monument
Lincoln Memorial
Distance: 1.5km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Monument
United States Capitol
Distance: 1.8km
Walking: 30 min
Type: Government Building
Reviews
Based on 25,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book timed entry passes online"
- "Visit early in the morning"
- "Check out the rooftop view"
- "Don't miss the Wright Brothers' plane"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
43
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
25,000
Adult Entry
$0 (free)