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Washington, DC Sights

National Building Museum

1 reviews | Write a review

Good for: architecture, people watching, design, National Historic Landmark, family-friendly

  • Address
    • 401 F St NW Judiciary Sq
  • Transport
    • Judiciary Sq
  • Website
  • Phone
    • 202 272 2448
  • Price
    • suggested donation $5
  • Hours
    • 10am-5pm Mon-Sat, from 11am Sun

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Lonely Planet review for National Building Museum

Devoted to the architectural arts, this museum is appropriately housed in an architectural jewel: the 1887 Old Pension Building. Four stories of ornamented balconies flank the dramatic 316ft-wide atrium, and the Corinthian columns are among the largest in the world, rising 75ft high. An inventive system of windows and archways keeps the so-called Great Hall constantly glimmering in natural light, and this space has hosted 17 inaugural balls – from Grover Cleveland’s in 1885 to Barack Obama’s in 2009. The showy space easily overshadows the exhibits, but they’re worthwhile nonetheless – ‘Washington: City and Symbol’ examines the deeper symbolism of DC architecture; and ‘Tools as Art’ features highlights from a collection donated by John Hechinger, hardware industry pioneer. Check the website for a schedule of rotating exhibits, concerts and family programs.

 

Traveller reviews for National Building Museum (1)

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    Great for locals and visitors for the exhibits & Great Hall

    claindc recommends this,

    A magnificent, historic landmark. The exhibits include shows on World's Fairs of the 1930s, the Italian Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio and his influence on Thomas Jefferson, and LEGO - yes, LEGO...15 iconic buildings - the Empire State Building, Frank Lloyd Wright's Falling Water - made entirely of LEGO bricks, and then there's a play area where you can make your own creations with the hundreds of thousands of LEGO bricks that are there for you to use. It's great to people watch in the public spaces and watch kids and school groups build domes, arches, and cities.

    Good for: architecture, people watching, design, National Historic Landmark, family-friendly

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