National Building Museum Washington DC
Good gift shop
JR from Washington DC
The National Building Museum is one of the rare museums in DC that's not a part of the Smithsonian. But, that's not the only thing that makes this museum different.
First, their gift shop is excellent. I go there frequently for all types of occasions to buy presents. And in case you're wondering, not everything in the shop is DC-themed. More importantly, most things in the store are very reasonably priced. Most other museum gift shops are full of fairly expensive items.
The second thing that makes the National Building Museum different happens every Saturday morning. The first floor of the museum, which is a big, open, carpeted room seems to always be packed with small children running around and enjoying the space. While the museum does have kid-friendly exhibits, this morning take-over of the open area on the first floor is an organic, unofficial activity. So if you have small children, you may want to consider going at that time.
The National Building Museum does have some of the traditional things you expect from such a place. They offer exhibits for adults and kids, tours, and have a small cafe.
Lastly, it's free to get in! That said, you will have to pay if you want to buy something from the gift shop or get tickets to the exhibits or tours.
Washington DC Spotter JR
About this spot
Our Washington DC City Guide
Find your way with 101 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Loved it? Join us!
Loved this Spot?Join your international community. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Washington DC
The Brig
Chill outdoor beer garden
"The Brig" is arguably the flagship beer garden of Eastern Market and Navy Yard in Washington DC. I love how I never have to wait for a table!
by
JR
Denson
Public Bar
Wednesday salsa night
"Public Bar" in DC turns into a real salsa club every Wednesday night. If you're serious about wanting to partner dance on a random Wednesday, it's for you.
by
JR
Denson
The Coffee Bar
Charm and personality
"The Coffee Bar" is a wonderful coffee spot in Washington DC, in a somewhat quiet area. I love their outside patio to enjoy my coffee with some sun.
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
ArtJamz
Paint and sip
"ArtJamz" in Washington DC is cool. It's basically an art studio where I go to hang out with friends, a date, or just to destress with a drink & paint.
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
Izakaya Seki
Big taste & small plates
"Izakaya Seki" in Washington DC is the restaurant I go to when I want authentic but unfamiliar Japanese food, a place for somewhat adventurous diners!
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
LeTena
Modern, fast, casual Ethiopian
"LeTena" Washington DC takes a slightly different approach with Ethiopian food, somewhere between being a restaurant & a casual place. I love the prices.
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
Kramerbooks & Afterwords
Bookstore and cafe
"Kramerbooks & Afterwords" Washington DC's Dupont Circle is an old-school bookstore with a café/bar & a restaurant. It's one of my favorites of this style.
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
Donburi
Japanese restaurant
"Donburi" in Washington DC is a Japanese restaurant that makes my mouth water before I've even had a taste of the food! It's my comfort food in DC...
by
Aparna
Krishnamoorthy
Food Trucks on the Mall
Eat around the world
The streets ringing the National Mall in Washington DC is full of food trucks with food from around the world. Pick your favorite, find a bench and enjoy!
by
Lydia
Strohl
DC Food Trucks Online
Locate eats on the go
Use the app "Food Truck Fiesta" to locate all the food trucks listed as active in Washington DC -- that's over 200 of them!
by
Lydia
Strohl
Heading to Washington DC?
101 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 101 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Washington DC
Get to know our other Spotters from Washington DC
As featured on:
