National Building Museum
Explore architecture, design, and urban planning in a stunning historic building. Features LEGO exhibits and interactive fun for all ages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
National Building Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore architecture, design, and urban planning in a stunning historic building. Features LEGO exhibits and interactive fun for all ages.
"The building itself is a work of art, and the exhibits are just amazing!"
🎟️ Skip the Ticket Line
Consider a membership for easy entry; otherwise, expect to queue for wristbands even with pre-bought tickets.
🚇 Metro Convenience
The Judiciary Square Metro (Red Line) is right across the street, making it an easy commute.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Hall
Main Atrium
Marvel at the colossal 75-ft columns and grand architecture. A truly awe-inspiring space for events and exploration.
BRICK CITY
Exhibition Hall
An incredible display of 37 iconic global structures meticulously crafted from LEGO® bricks.
Interactive Play Areas
Children's Exhibits
Engage with hands-on activities, including a popular LEGO building zone for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Skip the Ticket Line
Consider a membership for easy entry; otherwise, expect to queue for wristbands even with pre-bought tickets.
🚇 Metro Convenience
The Judiciary Square Metro (Red Line) is right across the street, making it an easy commute.
🚶♀️ Free Tours Available
Join a free guided tour for deeper insights into the building's history and architecture.
🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun
The LEGO area and interactive exhibits are a huge hit with children.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Skip the Ticket Line
Consider a membership for easy entry; otherwise, expect to queue for wristbands even with pre-bought tickets.
🚇 Metro Convenience
The Judiciary Square Metro (Red Line) is right across the street, making it an easy commute.
🚶♀️ Free Tours Available
Join a free guided tour for deeper insights into the building's history and architecture.
🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun
The LEGO area and interactive exhibits are a huge hit with children.
🛍️ Unique Gift Shop
Find a great selection of LEGO Architecture sets and other building-themed gifts.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Building Museum's stunning architecture, particularly the Great Hall, and engaging exhibits like BRICK CITY. While some find certain exhibits less compelling, the building itself is a major draw, offering a unique and educational experience for all ages, especially families. The accessibility via Metro and the availability of free tours are also highlighted as significant positives.
"Our third, maybe fourth, visit here. This time we took one of the free tours that focuses on why and how the building was constructed. It was fascinating to learn all the details behind the various features of the building, and how it has changed through the last 130+ years. Also, the tour took participants to the 3rd and 4th floors where it is otherwise not allowed access for museum visitors. Great, unusual views.
There are permanent exhibits, such as Brick City, for Lego enthusiasts, and special exhibits too. Very much a museum for kids.
There is an elevator, a store and small café. There is a reasonable cost to enter with discounted rates for kids, seniors, etc."
Tassey Russo
"The little things:
You can buy your tickets online in advance of your visit. Street parking is tough as this is the heart of downtown, so look for a parking garage. If you're up for catching the Metro, the museum is right across the street from the Judiciary Square station. There are bathrooms on each level; in the corner on the first floor and in the center on the second floor. If you're looking for Lego as a gift for someone, this is a great place to shop. The gift shop has a lot of inventory from the Architecture series and Botanical Collection.
Similar to other museums and government buildings in DC, the building itself is a work of art. The building is open and spacious. The museum is walking distance to other museums such as the National Portrait Gallery, National Law Enforcement Museum, and the National Gallery of Art. The museum is a mix of permanent and short-term exhibits. When I went there were exhibits devoted to Frank Lloyd Wright, an exhibit focused on souvenir buildings from around the world and each of the 50 states, and a Lego exhibit that paid tribute to architecture. The Visible Vault highlighted some of the 500,000 individual artifacts that the museum houses in its collection. There are also a few interactive exhibits that will delight the kids."
James Ely
"So the building itself is stunning. The exhibits inside are kind of meh. And while the tickets aren't that expensive a couple of the exhibits were kind of a letdown.
Overall, not a bad experience. One of the more interesting structures in DC and not very well known. I'd go just to look at the interior and take the self-guided tour. The exhibits you can see if you're really into architecture."
John Tweel, Jr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located near the Judiciary Square Metro station on the Red Line. If driving, be aware that street parking is limited, and you'll likely need to use a parking garage.
Street parking is difficult in this downtown area. Several parking garages are available nearby.
Yes, the Judiciary Square Metro station (Red Line) is just across the street from the museum, making it very accessible via public transit.
Yes, the museum is generally accessible. It has elevators to reach different levels, and most exhibits are designed to be viewed by visitors of all ages and abilities.
The closest Metro stop is Judiciary Square on the Red Line, which is just a short walk from the museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission is $10 for adults and $7 for youth (ages 3-17), students with ID, and seniors (60+). Children under 3 are free.
Yes, you can purchase tickets online in advance. However, some visitors report that you still need to stand in line to get your wristband even with pre-purchased tickets.
While general admission has a fee, some special events or tours might be included with admission. It's best to check the museum's official website for any current promotions or free hours.
The museum is typically open Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 4 pm. It is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. 
If you plan to visit multiple times a year, a membership can be cost-effective and allows you to bypass ticket lines.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the awe-inspiring Great Hall, the LEGO BRICK CITY exhibition, and the interactive play areas designed for kids.
Absolutely! The museum features dedicated interactive exhibits, a popular LEGO building area, and hands-on activities that children love.
Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the exhibits and the Great Hall.
Yes, the museum offers free guided tours that provide in-depth information about the building's history and architecture, often granting access to areas not usually open to the public.
The building itself is a major attraction, featuring a stunning, open, and spacious interior with colossal columns and intricate details, making it a work of art.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small cafe available for visitors to grab a bite to eat.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally recommended to consume outside food in designated areas or before entering the exhibition spaces. Check with the museum for their current policy.
Being in downtown D.C., there are numerous restaurants and eateries within walking distance of the museum, offering a variety of cuisines.
The cafe typically offers snacks and light fare. For special events like movie nights, a concession stand with popcorn and charcuterie is available.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but flash photography may be restricted in certain exhibits. Always check for posted signage.
The Great Hall with its massive columns is a prime spot for dramatic photos. The LEGO BRICK CITY exhibit also offers unique photographic opportunities.
While personal photography is usually permitted, commercial photography or videography may require special permission. Flash photography is often discouraged to protect exhibits.
You can capture stunning architectural shots of the Great Hall, detailed images of the LEGO creations, and engaging photos of the interactive exhibits.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Exhibits like BRICK CITY, featuring incredible LEGO creations, offer visual delight and spark imagination. The museum's design itself, with its grand scale and open spaces, is engaging for kids. Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds. The museum's location near the Judiciary Square Metro makes it easily accessible for families traveling with strollers. While there is a small cafe, packing snacks or planning for a nearby meal can be helpful for longer visits. The museum's admission fees are reasonable, with discounts for children, making it an affordable outing.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Exhibits often delve into the works of influential architects and explore various architectural styles and movements. The LEGO BRICK CITY exhibit, while playful, also showcases incredible architectural detail and creativity.
The museum's collection includes a 'Visible Vault' that offers a glimpse into its extensive archives of artifacts related to the built environment. 🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Taking advantage of the free guided tours is an excellent way to enhance your visit without extra cost. Opting for public transportation via the Metro is a budget-friendly way to reach the museum.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architecture of the National Building Museum
Visitors often remark on how the building's grandeur enhances the museum experience. The sheer scale and intricate details of the interior architecture provide a captivating backdrop for the exhibits. Tours focusing on the building's history and construction offer a deeper appreciation for its engineering and design, often revealing hidden architectural gems and providing unique vantage points from upper floors.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the building's design reflects its original purpose as a space for public assembly and civic engagement. The thoughtful layout and expansive areas contribute to a sense of openness and accessibility, making it a welcoming environment for diverse audiences. Whether you're admiring the architectural details or exploring the exhibits, the building's design is an integral part of the National Building Museum's identity.
Exhibits for Every Interest
Beyond BRICK CITY, the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into various aspects of architecture, design, and urban planning. Past exhibits have explored the works of renowned architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, showcased souvenir buildings from across the United States, and highlighted the history of American architecture. These exhibits often blend historical context with contemporary issues, encouraging visitors to think critically about the built environment.
For younger visitors, the museum excels with its interactive zones. These areas often include large foam blocks for building, LEGO play stations, and other hands-on activities designed to spark creativity and introduce fundamental concepts of design and construction in a fun, engaging way.
+1 The museum's commitment to making complex topics accessible ensures that visitors of all ages can find something to spark their curiosity and imagination.Planning Your Visit: Practical Tips
When it comes to tickets, while purchasing online in advance is possible, some visitors note that you may still need to queue for wristbands. For frequent visitors, a museum membership can be a cost-effective choice that also allows you to bypass ticket lines.
+1Inside the museum, don't miss the opportunity to join a free guided tour. These tours offer valuable insights into the building's history and architecture, often granting access to areas not usually open to the public.
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