This historic building near DC's National Mall is where you can see America’s founding documents.
What and where is the National Archives Building?
The National Archives & Records Administration Building is located on Constitution Avenue NW, between 7th and 9th Streets, just north of the National Mall. The Administration preserves, protects and shares the historical federal records of the United States.
The National Archives is home to billions of records in total, including the three most important documents in American history: the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. These can be viewed in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom at the National Archives Building.
The building is open every day of the year except Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Its hours are 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., seven days a week. Admission is always free.
The easiest way to reach the National Archives is via Metrorail. The closest Metro stop is Archives – Navy Memorial – Penn Quarter on the Green and Yellow lines. The facility is handicap accessible.
What’s inside the National Archives?
The National Archives features distinct areas that all serve a different purpose in illuminating American history through vital documents.
The Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom enjoys the most attention, and for good reason. The semicircular room contains the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. The exhibition surrounding the charters highlights the creation and continuing significance of each document.
The David M. Rubenstein Gallery is home to Records of Rights, which features numerous Archives documents and a 17-foot touch screen to summarize American debate around essential issues such as citizenship, voting rights, equal opportunity, free speech and more. The highlight of the gallery is one of four surviving originals of the 1297 Magna Carta.
Beyond its exhibits and historical documents, the National Archives Museum also features the William G. McGowan Theater, a 290-seat venue that hosts documentary films and forum discussions. Last but not least, the National Archives Store is a great spot to pick up American memorabilia and souvenirs to take home with you.
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