National Building Museum

The National Building Museum is America’s leading cultural institution devoted to the history and impact of the built environment. We do this by telling the stories of architecture, engineering, and design. As one of the most family-friendly, awe-inspiring spots in Washington, D.C., we welcome visitors ...

The National Building Museum is America’s leading cultural institution devoted to the history and impact of the built environment. We do this by telling the stories of architecture, engineering, and design. As one of the most family-friendly, awe-inspiring spots in Washington, D.C., we welcome visitors from around the world to our exhibitions, public programs, and festivals. Located just four blocks from the National Mall, the Museum occupies a magnificent building with a soaring Great Hall, colossal 75-foot-tall Corinthian columns, and a 1,200-foot terra cotta frieze. The Washington Post called us one of Washington, D.C.’s “Best Bets” for parents and children, and Nickelodeon's Parents Connect nominated us for “Best Indoor Playspace.” In the past year, tens of thousands of visitors attended the Museum’s free annual family festivals, including Discover Engineering Family Day, National Cherry Blossom Festival® Family Day, and the Big Build (formerly known as the Festival of the Building Arts). The Museum Shop spreads the message that good design matters by offering well-crafted and sustainable housewares, office items, jewelry, educational toys, books, and more. It was honored as the “Best Museum Store” in the country by Niche magazine, "Best All-Around Museum Shop" in the region by The Washington Post, a “Top Shop” by the Washingtonian, and named best museum shop in D.C. by National Geographic Traveler's blog, Intelligent Travel.