National Archives Research Center

State archive · Federal Triangle

National Archives Research Center

State archive · Federal Triangle

2

700 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20408

Photos

National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by National Archives (Public Domain)
National Archives Research Center by National Archives (Public Domain)
National Archives Research Center by National Archives (Public domain)
National Archives Research Center by National Archives (Public Domain)
National Archives Research Center by https://catalog.archives.gov/id/35810804
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null
National Archives Research Center by null

Highlights

See original US Constitution, Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights  

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700 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20408 Get directions

archives.gov

$$

Information

Static Map

700 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20408 Get directions

+1 866 272 6272
archives.gov

$$

Features

wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Aug 7, 2025

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@travelleisure

15 Cheap Places to Travel in August

"An abundance of complimentary attractions and sites, including the National Archives Building." - Travel + Leisure Editors

https://www.travelandleisure.com/affordable-places-to-travel-in-august-8641043
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@atlasobscura

The Best-Guarded Treasures in the World

"The National Archives building in Washington, D.C. houses some of the United States’ most foundational texts, including the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence. These three documents are collectively known as the Charters of Freedom, and could be the most closely guarded pieces of paper on the planet. During the day these important texts are available for public viewing under bulletproof glass and constant guard. But every night (and at the press of a button, should the need arise) a special elevator pulls them underground into a custom-built armored vault. The original vault was built in 1953 by the Mosler Safe Company. The firm was the logical choice, having previously taken on notable achievements like the gold bullion vault at Fort Knox, and a bank vault in Hiroshima that survived an atomic bomb. The original, 55-ton Mosler Vault was the size of a walk-in closet and employed a 20-foot scissor jack to raise and lower the Charters of Freedom. A 1953 documentary shows the lift in operation here. The Mosler Vault was replaced in the early 2000s as the National Archive underwent a major $110 million renovation. The current vault, designed by Diebold, is still shrouded in secrecy." - ATLAS_OBSCURA

https://www.atlasobscura.com/lists/best-protected-treasure-vaults
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Matthew Miller

Google
In reality, you could make a very quick trip here and only see the most important things here--The Constitution, The Declaration of Independence, and the Bill of Rights. With a bit more time, there are other exhibits to see, especially if you are interested in the archiving process and what gets stored in the National Archives. For families with younger children the Boeing Learning Center is a nice place with activities and hands-on materials. The staff there are keen to explain things and are clearly devoted to their vocations.

Rodrigo Gonzalez

Google
An impressive building which was made to preserve the national documents. In the exhibition, you can see The Constitution, The Declaration of Independence, and the Bill of Rights. Congratulations to the staff and curators for such an impressive place. I recommend it.

Nikoloz Gachechiladze

Google
Considering that the place is free, it provides an amazing experience. You can see the originals of American Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence and Constitution all within 15 minutes, if you have planned your route. There are other interesting exhibits, but these three are highlights and definitely worth a visit.

Stacy A

Google
Worth at least one visit to celebrate US history. See the Declaration of Independence, constitution, and bill of rights. Room is dark and cold to help with preservation. No photos allowed at all. Entry was simple enough once I found it and staff was quiet but helpful.

Reese C (Peanut)

Google
It was a super cool experience seeing the national Archives. My only complaint is the rotunda is a bit unorganized. A line naturally formed for guests to walk around and see all the documents but the staff encouraged people to just walk up to whatever section they wanted to see if there was an opening. It led to some agitation from the other guests and made it a bit unorganized.

Samson Pinto

Google
I love the fact that DC museums do not charge for entrance fees to any of their museums not do they have a suggested donation like New York museums. So much history here. I love these treasures!

Abigail Carroll

Google
What an amazing place. Though the entrance is a little confusing. It was surreal to actually see The Declaration of Independence, The Constitution, and The Bill of Rights with my own eyes. I wish we'd had more time to explore. Loved the gift shop

Lamar Person

Google
The coolest thing about visiting this place is that you get the opportunity to view the U.S. Constitution, The Declaration of Independence, and the Bill of Rights as close as a foot away from you. It's amazing how old and faded these documents currently appear; after witnessing the signatures from our founding forefathers.