
National Postal Museum
Explore the fascinating history of mail and communication at the free Smithsonian National Postal Museum, featuring interactive exhibits and unique ar...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction

National Postal Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more interaction

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the fascinating history of mail and communication at the free Smithsonian National Postal Museum, featuring interactive exhibits and unique artifacts.
"Way more interesting than you would expect! The stamp gallery was so fun."

🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is always free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option in DC.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially with the interactive exhibits.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Interactive Stamp Collection
Exhibition Hall
Design your own stamp and explore a vast digital collection, including Disney themes!

Mail Transport Vehicles
Exhibition Hall
Climb into a life-size truck and learn about the history of mail delivery.

Artifacts of Mail History
Exhibition Hall
See Amelia Earhart's flight suit and mail from the Titanic.

The Mail Rail Experience
Underground
A unique ride through the historic underground postal railway system.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Rewards
Location & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is always free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option in DC.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially with the interactive exhibits.
📱 Make Your Own Stamp
A fun, interactive way to create a personalized souvenir.
✉️ Send a Postcard
There's an opportunity to send a postcard home from the museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Entry is always free, making it a fantastic budget-friendly option in DC.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, especially with the interactive exhibits.
📱 Make Your Own Stamp
A fun, interactive way to create a personalized souvenir.
✉️ Send a Postcard
There's an opportunity to send a postcard home from the museum.
🕰️ Check Tour Times
Guided tours are available and offer deeper insights.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the National Postal Museum for its engaging and interactive exhibits, especially for families. Many are surprised by how much there is to see and do, highlighting the stamp design station and historical artifacts. The free admission and convenient location near Union Station are significant draws, though some wish for on-site dining options.
"I’m impress by the collection of stamps at this museum—it’s incredible! Every conceivable design imaginable has been transformed into a stamp. You could easily spend a couple of hours exploring. Although we didn’t have much time to explore deeper into the museum, the limited time we had certainly piqued my interest. From the history of stamps to their manufacturing process, everything was fascinating. There’s even a cute little gift shop! The staff is incredibly helpful and friendly. The entry is free as well! If we ever return to Washington, D.C., I’ll definitely make a stop here and spend more time exploring!"
Adriana De Pitkin
"Museum dedicated to the National Postal Service. Here you can learn about the American postal service from its infancy to this day. A good place to learn more about the history of America.
Staff are very friendly and welcoming. The building is right next to Union Station. Free entry.
I enjoyed my visit here."
Legends l
"Way more interesting than you would expect! The stamp gallery was so fun — you could make your own stamp and have it emailed to you. My 4-year-old loved looking through the digital stamp collection to see all of the Disney stamps. You even get to look through old stamps and take 6 of them home with you. She also spent over 30 minutes on the truck. Perfect location right across from the metro. Nice gift shop. This museum is definitely worth it for little kids."
Emily Mora
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Postal Museum is conveniently located right next to Union Station in Washington D.C.
You can easily reach it via the Metro (Red Line to Union Station) or by bus. Street parking is also available nearby, though it can be competitive on weekends.Yes, there is street parking available near the museum, particularly on Sundays.
However, it's recommended to check parking apps or consider public transportation due to potential availability issues, especially during peak times.Given its prime location next to Union Station, taking the Metro is highly recommended for easy access.
This avoids any parking hassles and allows you to enjoy the city.Absolutely! The museum is adjacent to Union Station, a major transportation hub for both Amtrak trains and Washington D.C.'s Metro system.
The closest Metro station is Union Station, served by the Red Line.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the National Postal Museum is always free!
You don't need to book tickets in advance.The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
It's always a good idea to check their official website for any holiday closures or special event hours.Yes, admission to the Smithsonian's National Postal Museum is completely free for all visitors.
The museum welcomes groups, but it's advisable to contact them in advance to arrange your visit and ensure the best experience.
There is no cost for admission to the National Postal Museum; it is free for everyone.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the interactive stamp collection where you can design your own, the life-size mail truck, and historical artifacts like Amelia Earhart's flight suit.
The Mail Rail experience is also a unique highlight.Absolutely! It's incredibly family-friendly with many hands-on exhibits, including a package sorter and stamp-making activities that kids love.
You can easily spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits, especially if you engage with the interactive displays.
Some visitors could spend even longer if they delve into every detail.Yes, the museum offers guided tours on most days, typically at 11:30 a.m. and sometimes at 2 p.m. on select days.
Check their schedule for the most up-to-date information.You'll learn about the fascinating history of mail in the U.S., from the Pony Express to modern postal services, and the global impact of mail.
It's more than just stamps; it's a lens into American history.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a cafe or restaurant. However, being right next to Union Station, you have a vast array of dining options available within the station.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition galleries to protect the artifacts. It's best to consume any food or beverages outside the museum or in designated areas if available.
Union Station, located directly across from the museum, offers numerous dining choices, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed inside the National Postal Museum. However, flash photography and tripods may be restricted in certain areas to protect exhibits.
The interactive stamp design station, the vintage mail trucks, and the unique artifacts like Amelia Earhart's flight suit make for great photo opportunities.
Selfies are generally permitted, but be mindful of other visitors and the museum's guidelines regarding flash and tripods.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plan for at least a couple of hours to let them fully explore the hands-on displays. The Mail Rail experience is also a unique adventure that appeals to younger visitors. Remember to check for any special family programs like 'Hello, Museo' which are designed for toddlers and caregivers.
💰 Budget Travelers
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mail Rail Experience
While the ride is a thrill, the surrounding exhibition delves deeper into the mechanics and importance of this automated mail delivery system. It’s a testament to how innovation has always been at the heart of the postal service. The exhibition is well-curated, explaining the context and impact of the Mail Rail on efficiency and speed of mail delivery in its prime.
Interactive Stamp Design
After designing your stamp, you can often have it emailed to you, creating a digital memento of your visit. This feature makes the museum experience even more memorable and shareable. The sheer variety of stamps available to view, including special collections like Disney stamps, adds another layer of enjoyment.
Beyond Stamps: A Broader History
These exhibits provide a rich narrative of how the postal service has been integral to American life, connecting people and facilitating commerce across vast distances. The museum's curation effectively uses these diverse objects to illustrate the evolution of communication and the enduring importance of the U.S. Postal Service. It’s this depth and variety that leads many to consider it one of DC's best-kept secrets.
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