Suitcases, large umbrellas, and backpacks are
not allowed in the galleries
. Security officers may ask you to hand-carry smaller backpacks, or wear them on your front, to protect the artworks. Please note that we do not offer coat check or bag storage at this time. Strollers are permitted in the galleries.
Does the Smithsonian have a coat check?
There is nowhere to check bags or coats
, so we suggest packing light for the museum, to speed through security and be most comfortable in the galleries. You are more than welcome to bring strollers, walkers, and wheelchairs into the museum and it is completely ADA-compliant.
Can you carry a backpack in Washington DC?
Even small ones are not allowed
: when they say no knives of any size, they mean it. There’s no need to buy a special backpack for a Washington trip–just use a small day bag (or even something larger except at the Capitol) and you’ll be fine.
Can you bring a backpack into the American museum of Natural History?
Luggage, small carry-ons and oversize backpacks, including those on wheels, are
not allowed into the Museum
and cannot be checked in at the Museum’s coat-check facilities.
Do you have to wear a mask in the Smithsonian?
As of March 11,
masks are not required to visit Smithsonian museums or the National Zoo
. While it will not be required, all visitors who feel more comfortable wearing a face mask during their visit are encouraged to do so. Visitors are not required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to enter the museum.
Do you need an ID to get into the Smithsonian?
ID is not required
!
Can you bring a backpack into the Capitol?
Capital One Arena has implemented a strict no bag policy.
Bags, backpacks and purses will not be permitted inside the Arena
. Wallet-size clutches no larger than 5′′ x 7′′, medical bags and parenting bags no larger than 14′′x 14′′x 6′′ will be permitted and subject to security screening.
Can you bring a backpack into Washington Monument?
You can bring your purse.
Ladies, rejoice! However,
any bags larger than 18x16x8 inches are not allowed
. Most standard backpacks are not too large.
Is there free parking at the Smithsonian?
There are no Smithsonian Institution public parking facilities on the National Mall
. On-street meter parking options are available but please be advised to carefully check the days and hours of enforcement posted on the parking meters and curbside signs.
Which Smithsonian has dinosaurs?
The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History
will finally reopen its dinosaur and fossil hall for the first time since 2014 on June 8: The David H. Koch Hall of Fossils — Deep Time.
How much is entry to the Smithsonian?
0 – 0
Are pets allowed in Smithsonian?
Pets are not permitted
.
Do they search bags at Natural History museum?
Your bags may be searched when you arrive at the Museum
. Please do not bring any sharp objects, including knives and scissors, as they may be confiscated. Find out more about the security and safety measures we have in place.
Can I bring a water bottle to the Natural History museum?
The following are prohibited: Explosives, firearms, knives, weapons, and noxious gases or substances. Bikes, roller skates, skateboards, wagons, and scooters (with the exception of small, foldable scooters for young children that may be carried by an adult) Outside food or drink (
water bottles permitted
).
Do you need a ticket for Natural History museum?
Members, Patrons and Corporate Supporters do not need to book general admission or exhibition tickets
. Arrive at any time throughout the year and you will have priority access. The option to book is still available if you prefer for Members and Corporate Supporters.
Can you take photos in the Natural History museum?
Visitors are permitted, at the discretion of the Museum, to photograph research collections, subject to certain terms which need to be agreed in writing at the time of visit
.
Do you need vaccinations to go to Washington DC museums?
The nation’s capital is ready to welcome you.
Proof of vaccination and masks are generally not required
in Washington, DC, but visitors are encouraged to check with individual establishments about COVID-19 protocols.
How long does it take to go through the Smithsonian Natural History museum?
Once inside, the average guest stays for
about 2 hours
. This museum covers the entire world! You can learn about various ecosystems and animal life from dinosaurs to dogs.
Can I bring a backpack to the National Zoo?
Protection of the Visiting Public and Staff
During peak visitation days at the Zoo, you may be greeted upon entry by one of the security personnel who will conduct a thorough but speedy hand-check of all bags, strollers, briefcases, purses and containers. You may also be hand-screened with an electronic wand.
Why is the Smithsonian closed?
The museums, which had been temporarily closed due to
staffing shortages brought on by Covid-19
, will reopen to the public in March.
Can you go inside the Smithsonian Castle?
The Castle is free to visit
. It is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The castle’s free docent-led tours of the building take place at 9 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Do Washington DC police carry guns?
Firearms are prohibited in the District of Columbia and on U.S. Capitol Grounds even if someone has a carry permit from D.C. or another state
. Failure to adhere to this law can result in arrest, fine, and/or imprisonment, as well as the confiscation and/or destruction of the item.
Can you smoke in the Capitol Building?
Also, note that smoking is not permitted anywhere in the Capitol, and food and drink are only allowed in the Capitol Cafe.
Can you walk into the Capitol Building?
The public entrance to the U.S. Capitol is through the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. The U.S. Capitol is open to the public for tours Monday – Saturday from 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. It is closed on Sundays, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and Inauguration Day.
Can you walk up the Washington Monument?
Timed tickets are required to ride the elevator to the 500 foot observation deck. Tickets for the Washington Monument are currently available online from recreation.gov (1-877-444-6777) ONLY; there is no onsite distribution of tickets.
There are no walk up or “day-of visit” tickets available at this time
.
Does Washington Monument have an elevator?
Most of the movement visitors detect is from the floor shaking from other people walking around and the elevator vibrations. Is there an elevator in the Washington Monument?
Yes.
