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United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

The official United States memorial and museum dedicated to the history and legacy of the Holocaust, featuring permanent exhibitions, survivor testimonies, and archival collections.

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United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
www.ushmm.org, og_image_www.ushmm.org

What is the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum known for?

It is the official United States memorial and museum dedicated to the history and legacy of the Holocaust, serving as a living memorial to its victims. The museum uses artifacts, films, photos, and oral histories to tell the story of the Holocaust and inspire people to confront hatred and prevent genocide.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission to the museum is free.

What are the hours of operation?

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except for Christmas Day and Yom Kippur.

Do I need a ticket or pass to enter?

While entering the museum, visiting special exhibitions, or seeing 'Remembering the Children: Daniel's Story' does not require a pass, timed passes are required to view the permanent exhibition from March through August.

Where is the museum located?

The museum is located at 100 Raoul Wallenberg Place, SW, Washington, D.C., situated between 14th Street and Raoul Wallenberg Place SW.

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 United States Holocaust Memorial Museum serves as the official memorial and museum of the United States dedicated to the history and legacy of the Holocaust. Opened in Washington, D.C. in 1993, the institution explores the tragedy through permanent and traveling exhibitions, educational programs, and archival collections. It is described as a living memorial to the victims, aiming to inspire citizens and leaders worldwide to confront hatred and prevent genocide. Located at 100 Raoul Wallenberg Place, Southwest, the museum was built on donated federal land and is funded through private donations. The facility tells the story of the Holocaust using a combination of artifacts, films, photos, and oral histories. Visitors can experience the permanent exhibition as well as special displays, including 'Remembering the Children: Daniel's Story'. To manage visitor flow, the museum utilizes timed passes for access to certain areas. These passes are specifically required for the permanent exhibition during the peak months of March through August. However, passes are not required for entering the museum building itself or for viewing special exhibitions. Operating hours are from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily, though the museum remains closed on Christmas Day and Yom Kippur. The museum provides a free admission experience, ensuring that the history and lessons of the Holocaust remain accessible to all visitors.

Visitor tips

  • Secure timed passes in advance if visiting the permanent exhibition between March and August.
  • Plan for a visit between 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., but remember the museum is closed on Christmas Day and Yom Kippur.
  • Allow several hours for the experience as the museum contains extensive archival collections and survivor testimonies.
  • Since admission is free, focus your budget on the museum shop or educational materials.

Nearby context

The museum is situated in Southwest Washington, D.C., positioned between 14th Street and Raoul Wallenberg Place SW.

Sources

Evidence and links