National Building Museum

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  • Address
    Judiciary Sq, 401 F St NW, Downtown
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  • Phone
    272 2448
  • Website
  • Transport
    underground rail: Judiciary Sq

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Lonely Planet review

Devoted to the architectural arts, this underappreciated museum is appropriately housed in an architectural jewel: the 1887 Old Pension Building. Four stories of ornamented balconies flank the dramatic 316ft-wide atrium. The Corinthian columns, 75ft high, are among the largest in the world. The space has hosted 16 inaugural balls from Grover Cleveland's in 1885 to George W's in 2005.

The showy space uses an inventive window and archway system to keep the so-called Great Hall bathed in natural light. It easily overshadows the exhibits, but they're worthwhile nonetheless: Washington: City and Symbol examines the deeper symbolism of DC architecture; Tools as Art features highlights from a fun collection donated by John Hechinger, hardware industry pioneer. Check the website for a schedule of rotating exhibits, concerts and family programs.