National Museum of American History Timed-Entry Passes

The Smithsonian National Museum of American History’s hours of operation are Friday through Tuesday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (closed December 25).

We release a limited number of same-day passes daily online at 8:15 a.m. (EST). Please refresh your browser if you do not see them right away. For other frequently asked questions about reserving passes, please visit the FAQ Page.

Important Conditions:  The Smithsonian’s timed pass reservation system is for visitors’ personal use only, and Smithsonian timed passes are valid only for the stated visitor(s), guest(s), date, and time. Passes may not be sold or transferred. Reservations that violate these conditions may be cancelled

To keep us all safe, and to support efforts to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, we have limited capacity and implemented new safety measures in our museums. Your visit to the National Museum of American History will be different and new procedures will be in place. Please review the important information below as you plan your visit.

We ask that all visitors, including those who have been vaccinated against COVID-19, follow these safety measures to protect everyone’s health. Visitors who do not adhere to safety policies and guidelines may be asked to leave.

Face Coverings

Face coverings are required for visitors two and older who are not fully vaccinated for COVID-19. Fully vaccinated individuals do not need to wear face coverings during their visit.

Social Distancing
Please maintain a safe social distance of six feet or more between households or groups at all times. Social distancing signage and directions will be found throughout our facilities.

Hygiene
Please wash and sanitize hands frequently during your visit and practice good hygiene. Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout our facilities.

Personal Belongings
We encourage you to limit the number of personal belongings and bags you bring into our facilities, as they will be subject to a thorough search. Limiting the items you bring will increase your speed through security check points, helping us all maintain a safe social distance. Please note that we do not offer coat or bag storage at this time.

Visiting Tips

• All visitors must enter the museum via the Constitution Ave entrance
  • Draper Spark!Lab and Wegmans’ Wonderplace are closed until further notice.
• Due to construction, the following exhibitions will be closed for approximately three weeks in July (dates are subject to change):
  • America on the Move
  • On the Water
  • Food: Transforming the American Table (including Julia Child’s Kitchen)
  • Lighting a Revolution
  • Power Machinery
• Food Service is available. The Jazz Café serves coffee, sweets, sandwiches, salads and other light fare.
• Bottled water is allowed. We recommend bringing a refillable water bottle. 

Accessibility
Visitors will have the option to request accessibility accommodations on the registration page.

Reserve your time slot for the National Museum of American History by selecting an available date on the calendar above.