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

U.S. Department of the Interior Main Building

The headquarters of the U.S. Department of the Interior, this New Deal-era landmark is a massive Stripped Classical building housing the free Interior Museum, an Indian Craft Shop, and an Interior Library.

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U.S. Department of the Interior Main Building
www.doi.gov, og_image_www.doi.gov

What is the U.S. Department of the Interior Main Building known for?

Also known as the Stewart Lee Udall Department of the Interior Building, it serves as the headquarters for the U.S. Department of the Interior, which manages most federal lands and natural resources.

What are the hours for the Interior Museum?

The museum is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time, though it is closed on federal holidays.

Is it free to visit?

Yes, admission to the Interior Museum is free and open to the public.

What do I need to bring to enter the building?

Adults over 18 are required to present a valid government-issued photo ID for entry.

Where is the entrance located?

All visitors must enter through the C Street lobby, located between 18th and 19th Streets NW.

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 U.S. Department of the Interior Main Building, officially designated as the Stewart Lee Udall Department of the Interior Building in 2010, serves as the central headquarters for the cabinet-level federal department responsible for managing the nation's natural and historic resources. Located in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, the structure occupies a massive block bounded by 18th and 19th Streets NW and C and E Streets NW. Commissioned by the Roosevelt administration in 1934 and designed by architect Waddy Butler Wood, the building was dedicated on April 16, 1936. Its architecture is a prime example of Stripped Classical style, reflecting the humanistic concern and progressivism of the New Deal era. The mammoth building is utilitarian in plan and austere in elevation, but it is embellished with architectural ornamentation and a notable collection of murals. In terms of scale, the building is 575 1/2 feet long and 382 feet wide, spanning two city blocks. Internally, it features 15 acres of office space, 3 miles of corridors, 4,432 windows, and 22 elevators. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986 to preserve its architectural and historical significance. Publicly accessible areas include the Interior Museum, which is free and open to the public. Visitors can also visit the Indian Craft Shop and the Interior Library. All public visitors must enter through the C Street lobby between 18th and 19th Streets NW.

Visitor tips

  • Enter through the C Street lobby between 18th and 19th Streets NW.
  • Bring a valid government-issued photo ID if you are over 18, as it is required for entry.
  • Allow time for security screenings, including bag and parcel checks.
  • Visit the Interior Museum Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Nearby context

Situated in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, the Stewart Lee Udall Building is a massive federal presence that anchors the block between C and E Streets NW.

Sources

Evidence and links