Frequently Asked
Questions

The highly anticipated National Geographic Museum of Exploration is set to open in summer 2026 in the heart of Washington, D.C. Sign up here to be the first to know when the museum opens!

Tickets are not yet available to purchase. Sign up here to be the first to know when tickets are available!

Yes, Explorers will be at the Museum throughout the day for conversations, talks and informal activities.

Yes, programming throughout the day is designed for everyday explorers of all ages.

The Museum of Exploration never wants cost to be a barrier to curiosity.

We offer discounted admission of $3 per ticket to families enrolled in SNAP and WIC.

Learn more about the program and how to get your tickets today.

Contributing Member Passport members enjoy free admission, exclusive events, discounts at the gift shop and café, early access to special exhibitions and more.

Memberships are valid for 12 months from the date of your qualifying gift.

Beginning in 2026, a physical card will be mailed to you with the acknowledgment of your first gift and again in your first renewal letter.

To qualify for our special group rate, your party must consist of 20 or more paying people. This minimum count is necessary to take advantage of the discounted admission and the dedicated group benefits we offer.

Group reservations are subject to availability, especially during peak seasons. We recommend securing your visit early, as groups can book up to 18 months in advance. This gives you the best chance of reserving your preferred date and time.

Yes! Our group rate packages include several valuable benefits designed for a streamlined and enhanced visit: you receive discounted admission from the general public price; you get a dedicated entrance to bypass the general admission line; and you receive exclusive access to the Learning Launchpad, our dedicated space for group orientation and activities.

Yes, private, guided tours with our experts are available for groups! These tours must be arranged in advance and may incur an extra charge based on the duration and subject matter. Please contact our team directly at groupsales@ngs.org for current availability and specific rates.

Groups may reschedule or cancel their visit up to 30 days prior to their arrival date without penalty (deposit policy applies). Please note that any rescheduled visits are subject to current availability, and we will do our best to accommodate your new preferred date.

Our exclusive venue spaces primarily host events after-hours to offer an exclusive, private experience for you and your guests.

However, the Terrace, Hubbard Hall, and M2 Conference Center remain available for bookings throughout the day.

Most of our event venues feature engaging museum content that will captivate your guests — you will have exclusive access to any exhibitions within your event area.

To book a date for your event, submit an event request using this [intake form] and our team will follow up with you shortly. For general questions about availability and other details, email us at eventrentals@ngs.org and we’ll be in touch.

The Museum of Exploration’s grand opening is June 26, 2026.

From there, the museum is open every day from 9 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. this summer. We can’t wait to help you ignite your spark of curiosity and unlock your inner explorer.

The Museum of Exploration never wants cost to be a barrier to exploration.

Here’s the breakdown on discounts we offer:

Seniors & Youth (5 –17): Discounted rates are available.

Kids (4 & under): Admission is free — just make sure to reserve their ticket online, too.

Groups: Bringing friends? Group rates for parties of 20 or more are available.

We can’t wait to help you, your family and friends discover the wonder of the world at the Museum of Exploration.

Your general admission ticket includes access to signature exhibitions, select premier programming, Explorers Eatery with food and beverage available for purchase.

While most exhibitions are included, a few special ones might require a separate ticket. Check the schedule when you book to secure admission to those add-ons.

The National Geographic Society is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to illuminating and protecting the wonders of our world.

By purchasing a ticket to the Museum of Exploration you’re directly supporting the groundbreaking work of National Geographic Explorers across the globe working to make the world a better place.

We can’t wait to welcome you to this signature experience dedicated to the explorer in all of us.

The Museum of Exploration never wants cost to be a barrier to curiosity.

We offer discounted admission of $3 per ticket to families enrolled in SNAP and WIC.

Learn more about the program and how to get your tickets today.

Yes, the museum offers two quiet, sensory-friendly rooms with adjustable lighting, comfortable seating, and sound-dampening panels. You can also borrow free sensory kits with noise-cancelling headphones and fidgets from the ticket desk, and check sensory maps on the website or mobile app to avoid areas with potential overload.

All videos with dialogue have American Sign Language (ASL) and closed captions, which are also provided in Spanish for non-English media. The Auditorium is equipped with an Induction Loop system that broadcasts audio directly to compatible hearing aids.

Yes. An all-gender restroom in the Pavilion has an adult-sized, wall-mounted changing table.

Yes, you can find a ramp-accessible entrance on M Street, which leads directly to the museum's double-door entrance.