The National Museum of African American History and Culture, the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American history, life, and culture. is a magnificent museum. It opened in September 2016 and has experienced a record number of visitors since it’s opening and continues to do so today.
If you are amongst those who have not visited the museum, here are some top tips on visiting the museum.
- It’s located in Washington, DC on the National Mall near the Washington Monument.
- It’s best to take public transportation if you’re not staying within walking distance to the museum. The nearest subway stations are Federal Triangle and Smithsonian Station – National Mall. The NMAAHC website also provides information on street and public parking and how to get there.
- You must have a timed pass, which is FREE to enter. You can get the timed passes on the website.
- Same day timed passes are available online only.
- A Limited number of walk-up passes admitted on weekdays beginning at 1 pm.
- Everyone passes through security upon entering. Make sure you visit the website for a list of prohibited items.
- Food and drinks are not permitted, except for bottled water.
- Include time to visit the gift shop or if you’re so inclined, do your shopping first if you don’t mind carrying your purchases. The line gets longer as the day goes on.
- Include time for the restaurant. There’s a food hall or court called Sweet Home Café, with installations representing different American regions of cuisine. It’s cafeteria style. The lines can be long but, each time I’ve been there, the line moves.
- The average visit to tour the museum is four hours.
- It is recommended to begin your tour at the lowest level and work your way up through time. The museum is four levels below ground and ascends four levels above ground.
Enjoy this fabulous museum and plan to visit it again and again!
Ja’Vonne