What to Expect

Use this guide to help plan your visit to the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.

Before You Arrive

• Reserve a free timed-entry pass. (If you are coming with a group of 10 or more, reserve group passes.)
• Minimize bags and personal items to move more quickly through security screening.
• Don't bring outside food (bottled water is permitted). Review the full list of prohibited items.  
• Lines can form outside the entrance, so prepare in case of inclement weather.
• Plan ahead if you are visiting with a large group or on a field trip.

Map & Directions

• Use your favorite mapping tool to get to 6th Street and Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC. Check out our tips for getting here.
• The Museum does not offer parking. Check out our tips for parking nearby.  

Timed-Entry Passes and Security Screening

• Have your free timed-entry pass ready for scanning.
• Lines can form outside the building on busy days. Be prepared for heat or inclement weather.
• You can enter anytime after the time on your timed-entry pass. Arriving slightly after the hour helps avoid a line.
• All visitors pass through security screening upon entry. Do not bring prohibited items inside. Review our other guidelines.

Welcome Center (Sponsored by Southwest Airlines)

• Visit the Welcome Center (sponsored by Southwest Airlines). There you can grab Museum map and information and recommendations from staff and volunteers.
• Sensory bags are available for neurodiverse visitors. Bags include noise reduction headphones, fidget toys, and other tools to help make the Museum more accessible for neurodiverse visitors.

Accessibility

• Wheelchairs are available at the Security Desk on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Visit the Welcome Center (sponsored by Southwest Airlines) for more information about accessibility resources. Some programs require advanced notice.
• Sensory bags are available at the Welcome Center for neurodiverse visitors, with noise reduction headphones and fidget toys.

Things to See and Do

• Explore our newly transformed exhibition galleries. In our exhibits, you can walk on other planets and climb inside real objects like a Boeing 747 cockpit. Looking for a specific object? Search the list of objects on display to see if it's here and where you can find it.
• Check out our events calendar to find out if something special is happening.
• Look out for carts around the Museum, where you can engage in a hands-on, facilitated activity.
• See a show at the Lockheed Martin IMAX® Theater (located on the first floor) or the planetarium (located on the second floor). (Tickets available at the box office.)

Food and Store

• Get some food at the Mars Café, located on the lower level.
• Buy a souvenir at the Museum store. 

As You Leave

• Sign up to receive our e-newsletter for stories and upcoming events.
• Follow us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, and X).
• Support the Museum by making a donation or becoming a member.
• Visit another nearby Smithsonian museum.