International Spy Museum

Save
  • Address
    800 F St NW, Downtown, 20004
  • Show map Close map
  • Phone
    866 SPYMUSEUM
  • Website
  • Transport
    underground rail: Gallery Pl-Chinatown

Let us know if these details are incorrect

Lonely Planet review

If you've ever wanted to step into James Bond's shoes and live a glamorous spy life, this is the place to learn the secrets. DC's hottest attraction illustrates high-tech gadgetry, notorious spy cases, secret methods and the not-so-pleasant consequences of being an international person of mystery.

The much-acclaimed museum of espionage gives spy fans their fill of cool gadgets and interactive displays. All visitors are invited to play the role of a secret agent by adopting a cover at the start of their visit. Throughout the museum, you can try to identify disguises, listen to bugs and spot hidden cameras. Most of the exhibit is historical in nature, focusing on the Cold War in particular (a re-creation of the tunnel under the Berlin Wall is an eerie winner).

Lines form early to get in. Despite being open for years now and charging an entrance fee, the Spy Museum is as popular as ever, especially with kids. There's also a shop with everything you need for your next secret mission.