Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all Washington, D.C. places

Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Museums

National Geographic Museum at Explorers Hall

A state-of-the-art exploration hub opening June 26, 2026, featuring immersive technology, iconic photography, and over 100,000 square feet of public space at the historic National Geographic Society headquarters.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
National Geographic Museum at Explorers Hall
moe.nationalgeographic.org, og_image_moe.nationalgeographic.org

When does the National Geographic Museum of Exploration open?

The museum is scheduled to open on June 26, 2026, at the National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington, D.C.

How much does it cost to visit?

General admission for adults starts at $29.99, though dynamic pricing is expected to launch before the grand opening.

What is the museum known for or what can I see there?

The museum is a state-of-the-art attraction featuring immersive technology, iconic photography, and immersive displays. Planned permanent galleries include the Photo Ark: Animals of Earth, the Magazine Gallery, The Archives, and Rolex Explorers Landing.

Where is it located and how do I get there?

The museum is located at 1600 M St. NW, Washington, DC 20036. It is accessible via the Blue, Orange, and Red metro lines, with the nearest stations being Dupont Circle, Farragut North, and Farragut West.

What amenities are available on-site?

The museum is designed as a day-long destination and includes a restaurant, a retail store, and a theater with a capacity of 398 people.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The National Geographic Museum of Exploration is a major revitalization of the National Geographic Society's nearly 130-year-old Washington, D.C. campus. Scheduled to open on June 26, 2026, the museum transforms the global headquarters into a cutting-edge destination dedicated to inspiring explorers. The site occupies the northern half of a city block north of the White House, integrating historic structures like Hubbard Hall, which dates back to 1904, and the Stone Building, completed between 1963 and 1964. Visitors will experience over 100,000 square feet of new public space designed around immersive technology that recreates real-world explorer experiences. The facility is sustainably built and utilizes innovative displays to illuminate the wonder of our world. The overhaul includes a theater with a capacity of 398, a restaurant, and a retail store, transitioning the site from a simple gallery stop into a day-long destination. Planned permanent galleries include the Photo Ark: Animals of Earth, the Magazine Gallery, and the Nighttime Courtyard. Other highlights include the Archives, In Focus photography, and Rolex Explorers Landing. These galleries, combined with the immersive theater experiences, ensure a deep dive into the legendary photography and scientific discovery of the National Geographic Society.

Visitor tips

  • Purchase tickets in advance via the official website as they are already on sale.
  • Allow several hours for your visit as the museum is designed as a day-long destination including a restaurant and theater.
  • Use the Dupont Circle, Farragut North, or Farragut West metro stations for the most convenient access via the Blue, Orange, and Red lines.
  • Adult general admission starts at $29.99, but be aware that dynamic pricing may be applied.

Nearby context

Located at 1600 M St. NW, the museum is situated in a central Washington, D.C. area north of the White House, occupying a historic campus that has served as the Society's headquarters since 1888.

Sources

Evidence and links