Tips for Visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture

In Washington, DC, where the National Mall boasts numerous museums and memorials, deciding which ones to visit with your group can be challenging. However, among the Smithsonian museums, The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) is a must-visit. 

DCTrails, a bus rental company operating in Washington, DC, goes over some helpful information for visiting this truly fascinating museum.

About NMAAHC

Since its 2016 inauguration, NMAAHC has been a top DC museum. With 85,000 sq. ft. of gallery space housing 40,000+ objects, only 3,500 are on display at a time. Exhibits span 400+ years of African American history, from pre-20th century slavery to Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign memorabilia, offering a comprehensive view of African American community history.

How to Get There

When crafting your Washington, D.C. itinerary and organizing your visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC), it’s essential to consider your transportation options. For groups taking private tours, school outings, or any other group excursion, renting a bus should be a top consideration. 

DCTrails bus rentals in Washington DC stand ready to provide a swift and efficient charter bus or minibus rental tailored to your NMAAHC trip. Opting for a bus rental in Washington, D.C. can streamline your travel arrangements by ensuring your group stays together and adheres to your specific schedule. 

The Best Times to Visit

The timing of your visit to the NMAAHC should align with your group’s travel preferences. Opting for the fall or winter seasons will help you avoid the crowds, whereas spring and summer tend to attract larger crowds and can be uncomfortably warm.

Are There Options for Group Tours?

Similar to other Smithsonian Institutions located on the National Mall, the NMAAHC offers free general admission. Throughout the year, you can avail of guided public tours and participate in docent-led community conversations. You can explore tour and program choices in advance on their website. If you’re planning a school group visit, it’s essential to make a reservation through the NMAAHC website beforehand.

Is the Museum Accessible for Guests with Mobility Concerns?

The NMAAHC is fully equipped to accommodate guests with mobility challenges. The museum provides ramps, escalators, and elevators throughout the 4-story space to ensure easy navigation. Additionally, manual wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the front desk.

For guests who are blind or have low vision, braille maps can be found at the welcome desk, and all museum exhibits are accessible through the verbal description mobile app Aira. The museum also warmly welcomes service animals on its grounds. If someone in your group is hard of hearing, you can request an ASL guide for docent-led tours with at least two weeks’ notice to the museum.

Inquire About Group Bus Rentals to DC with DCTrails Today!

We offer group bus rentals for school field trips and more at unbeatable prices. Ask us about renting one of our charter buses for your trip to Washington, DC, today.