The National Archives was another one of those places that exceeded my expectations. Seeing the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights with my own eyes was surreal. You can read about them your whole life, but standing in front of the actual documents just hits differently. It really makes you stop and appreciate the history, the sacrifices, and the foundation our country was built on. read more

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In honor of America 250 this week, my next 4 reviews will be places I went on 4th of July in prior years. A lot of the places I went to in recent years on 4th of July, I already reviewed, but here's some more. I've lived in the DC area since October 2011, so 2026 will be my 15th Independence Day living around here. Times I was out of town: -2014 (Boston): Already reviewed the restaurant. Bar no longer exists. -2019 (Vegas): That'll be my next review. The restaurant we ate at is out of business, but I have something else I can review. -2022 (Lancaster, PA): Came back into town that afternoon. Will have a review in MD that afternoon. -2024 (Smith Mountain Lake, VA): Girlfriend's parent's lake house, already reviewed the restaurant -2025 (SML, VA): Lake house, already reviewed places Only 2 years in DC for the 4th (technically 3 with 2018): -2015: Parents in town, National Mall -2017: Aunt/Uncle in town, National Mall In 2018, I was all over the map that day in NoVA, saw a movie at Mazza Gallerie, & went to Fort Reno Park on the far northwest side of DC. I guess I could review the park, but I didn't see much at night, but good vantage point to see fireworks in various directions at the highest elevation in DC. July 4, 2015 my parents visited town, of course we saw the fireworks on the Mall. But earlier in the day, we went to the National Archives. This is a must visit for tourists visiting DC and ones who live here, who haven't been should go. Declaration of Independence & US Constitution are well preserved for close to 250 years. It's really cool to see, and they do an excellent job preserving these original documents. read more

Definitely a part of American history, and if you can get a timed entry ticket, you'll save some time in line to get in. Obviously sure the Declaration and Constitution are nice, but the document room is crowded, so it'll take some time to get up close. Still, these are the documents our forefathers signed, so it's worth the wait. I also like the two murals above featuring the signers. Beyond that, the exhibits are worth seeing as well. There are some interactive screens about the materials you can find at the archive, files from patents and the moon landing, and about the document signers, and some of the propaganda posters used through the 20th century. The gift shop is also top notch. A lot of things to buy and they have an online store if there is something catches your fancy that you don't want to carry around. So definitely a must see in DC, just be prepared for some crowds. read more

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This is a great stop to see the official documents of our country! Be prepared there is no true line or order to see the documents, people just shove their way forward. While I have enjoyed the experience I cannot stand having to show in to see the documents. My suggestion go early in the morning and avoid the school field trips! It's too chaotic to actually enjoy the documents and the reading of them! read more

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I love seeing old documents, and the penmanship from that era is truly remarkable--so precise, elegant, and effortlessly beautiful. It's amazing to imagine someone simply putting pen to paper and writing with such skill. History has a way of bringing the past to life. Seeing the original bylaws and foundational documents that helped create structure and order among the people was inspiring. Moments like these remind me why history is such a wonderful thing. read more

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Parking let's talk about Park first. Don't do it. Just use the Metro more than well equipped. No one comes to Washington DC without understanding there's a tremendous amount of walking that is expected. You should anticipate logging around 20 to 30,000 steps a day. That's based on a six to eight hour day with lunch included. Documents. That's what you're here for after all. Where else can you see the original Magna carta, Constitution of the United States and additional founding documents? That's right you can't. And you better believe they're behind pressure plated, temperature control glass that is directly monitored by two United States Federal officers. Show respect when you're in the building. Be considerate to others and enjoy the ice cold free water fountains. read more

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Highly recommend. Has Magna Carta, Declaration, and Constitution. It's very convenient to get to, no tickets needed. Walked right in during the middle of the day. read more

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How can you not give this place 5 stars... It's history in the greatest form. This is were there's an actual version of the US Constitution and the Declaration of Independence on display. So cool. What I didn't know was how big these things are. It's not on 8.5x11" paper. These documents are pretty faded but they're well over 100 years old... You can also see the Magna Carta which I believe is the oldest document there. That thing is small too... I wonder if the founding fathers went big to make a point. I didn't explore much more as I was walking by at 4:30p and they closed at 5:30p, so I just went in for the money shot and worked my way out. I'd go back to explore this place even more, but if you have time to spare, GO HERE! read more

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The National Archives Museum should be a priority stop on your DC itinerary if you're visiting the area for multiple reasons. It is home to virtually all of the U.S.A. important and permanent records like The Constitution and other founding documents, war records, and records from some of the most impactful eras in American history like the Civil Rights, women's suffrage, and post-slavery eras. You can easily access the museum from the Archives Metro Station which is one block away. It is located in an area of Downtown DC that gets busy with tourist and local foot traffic, but it doesn't see as much foot traffic as other tourist destinations on The Mall. The museum is a relatively quick walk-thru as it isn't expansive compared to other museums on The Mall. You can walk through the entire museum in 2 hours max, making it a good option for your last museum stop of the day or your final destination if you have a few hours left of your your trip before departure. Like many museums on The Mall, the Archives Museum has timed entry, however, there is also a general entry line for walk-ups and does not require advanced ticketing. However, understand the general entry line can be lengthy, so plan accordingly. The advanced ticket line feels very much like a "fast lane" when you're waiting in the general entry line. There's also a security check prior to entry into the main lobby, so ensure you review their security policy prior to your visit to understand their bag policy and prohibited items. Plan accordingly for both pre-entry experiences. They strongly encourage picture taking and video recording here, which is refreshing considering some places are strict on photography use. Overall, an excellent experience if you want to dive deeper into some of American history. read more

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It was a very moving Rotunda because this is the birth of the nation. It was displayed respectfully and in good taste. The documents on display were well preserved. The mural above was beautiful. A must visit especially for history buffs. read more

National Archives Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I feel like I just go through and and five star everything in dc But I'm a proud American and everyone should come and see our founding documents. A very lovely building with nice gift shop and some interactive activities. Not the biggest must see but should be done read more

An important part of our nation's history, unfortunately, you really couldn't see the documents due to what it looks like fading and the lights being very dim. I'm sure that's something to do with preservation. Surely there is some way to preserve the document while still allowing you to really see it. The security in the room was really good at explaining various things. read more

National Archives Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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--Location/Parking-- Located near the National Gallery Sculpture Garden and the National Mall. I saw some limited paid parking, since I rode the metro to get there, I didn't look at the parking situation on the number of cars the paid lots can hold. Note, you must enter on the right side of where the historic stairs are located. --Ambience-- Looking to view the Constitution? Check. Bill of Rights. Check. Declaration of Independence? Check. This is a great spot for history buff. I got in without a reservation, but I didn't have to wait long to get into the museum. Be warned because of preservations of the documents, many of the lights are dimmed for obvious reasons. --Service/Staff-- There were several helpful guides and the usual security watching the place. Nothing that stood out for a typical museum. --Products-- I swung by the gift shop, which housed many cool puzzles, trinkets and historic pieces. I was impressed with the shop itself and how much items you can purchase based on US History. --Overall-- My number 1 stop for anyone in the Washington DC area because of how many important historical artifacts that are on display here. read more

Went here to see the Declaration of Independence, The Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. I went around 3pm. There was a little bit of a line out. I didn't have a timed ticket but still stayed in the time ticket line and come to find out they don't check tickets. Just your basic security check. From there I walked across the street to visit the Natural History Museum read more

National Archives Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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During our trip to DC this time, we also visited the National Archives Museum. Our main purpose was to see the Declaration of Independence. We saw the Declaration, Constitution of the US, read the details, several other historical records were also on display, well explained with the relevant background. These documents are on display at the top floor in the Rotunda hall. The lower floor has the Magna Carta on display. Must try on your next visit, it's surely informative and worth the visit. read more

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The museum was an interesting and fascinating experience. The atmosphere was monumental, also the exhibits were very educational. As a whole, very clear, polished and enjoyable must-do at D. C. read more

I always love visiting the national archives! They have such an excellent layout, helpful staff, and thoughtful exhibits. They approach American history as it should be- with truth, reverence, and nuance. It is always cool to see our founding documents, but they have so much more in the archives too! read more

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DC is such a trip because there is so much history right in your face. The Declaration of Independence is just right here? The actual Constitution is here? We still have that? BLOWS my mind. WE THE MF PEOPLE! I felt like a little kid back in a candy store being in the National Archives Museum. Looking at the actual signatures page of the Constitution gave me chills. I felt like I was watching Conor Mcgregor's rise through the UFC or watching Kobe give his heart and soul battling the stacked Celtics in 2010 all over again. Our Founding Fathers were so gangster. Oh you redcoats wanna tax our stamp and tea? WELL WE GOING TO WAR THEN. So much respect. More than willing to pay the ultimate price in the name of Freedom. That Nathan Hale quote before he is literally about to be hanged gets me everytime: "My only regret is that I have but one life to lose for my country." Damn I'm getting chills again. You guys will never understand the sheer will power it took to not open this review with a Nic Cage joke, but I am truly God's strongest soldier. I did, however, buy a full size version of the Declaration to pay homage. I also bought a windbreaker. I LOVE DC! IG @jnov_ Tiktok @jnov__ read more

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I give this museum a 3, despite the excellent history that is there, because of the rude staff. I specifically dealt with Jes and they took my phone, gave me a dirty look, and expected me to say something so they could kick me out. There was no reason to rip the phone clean out of my hands. I could have held it and they scanned it. Unacceptable. Also there were two lines and I had timed entry and they gave no directions as to where to go. I had to find out through signs instead of the staff explaining where to go. The archives and documents itself were the only reason I gave this museum 3 stars. Not a great experience. read more

My wife and I love history and have enjoyed exploring the important sites of American history in D.C. The National Archives were on the list for a while and we got to visit here this past May and we loved it. Tickets are free and you can either reserve them ahead of time or you can wait in a walk-up line. We did the walk-in as we were hopping from site to site and we didn't have to wait long on Memorial Day weekend. The room that houses the documents is large and is shaped in a half-circle and you can view the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and The Bill of Rights and there are separate rooms for other historical documents including a copy of the Magna Carta and the German surrender documents for WWII. Seeing these documents was an amazing experience and something that everyone should do when they're in D.C.! read more

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It's hard to believe pieces of paper will shock you, but this museum makes it so. Lots of information to learn and quite friendly staff. Security guards were also playing trivia with the visitors and were quite knowledgeable. Great for any history fan. read more

National Archives Museum - Founding Documents Hall - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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Beautiful inside. It was spacious. I enjoyed looking at the gift shop and i dont think the cafe was that good?

Like everyone who comes here, we came to see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Being a teacher and also a History major, I have seen these Founding Documents in books, online research and in the movies. We stood in line and the docent told us that there is no "official line" to see the documents. That made it interesting. Once we got into the gates, we noticed that there were additional displays around the documents that gives a history about them. From the left, I came to the Declaration. It was incredibly awe-inspiring to be in its presence. I just stood there staring at it. It was incredible, yet sad. I noticed that the bottom portion of the Declaration is fading. You can definitely see John Hancock's signature. The Constitution and the Bill of Rights seem to be in better shape. Their writing is not as faded. The lighting in this room is dimmer than other rooms for obvious reasons and there are 2 large frescoes framing the room. They are quite impressive. We didn't see other documents as we went towards closing time. There are several other rooms that we will need to visit on a return visit. There is also a gift shop that sells everything you could possibly imagine. I bought a copy of the Declaration and it is now up in my classroom. It didn't cost much- around $8ish. The admission, like most of the buildings and museums in D.C., is free. You can either make a reservation, or not. Doesn't really matter since the lines go in fast. I will definitely come back. read more

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Housing some of the most valued documents in history, this museum is a must-see in DC! We reserved our timed-entry tickets for 10:00AM on a weekday and were surprised that there was no line to go through the security check. Starting on the first floor, the Magna Carta from 1297 takes center stage... yes, the actual document! The remainder of the exhibit featured a number of historical artifacts like documents related to the Chinese Exclusion Act, Civil Rights Movement and Women's Equality & Suffrage. Rosa Parks' fingerprints were even on display. This was a very enlightening walk through history and makes you realize how far we have come. On the second floor, we started out in the "Power & Light" exhibit which showcased a collection of photos from Russell Lee who captured the daily lives of American families, specifically miners. Every photo had a story behind it and gave us glimpses into the coal communities. Finally, for the main event, we went into the Rotunda where the actual Constitution and Declaration of Independence are displayed. Above is a huge mural featuring all the men who signed the documents. Signposts on the floor identify the names of each individual represented. Overall, the lighting is fairly dark in the Rotunda, possibly to discourage photography, since some displays specifically state photos are not allowed. The area is heavily guarded with security as well, which is not surprising. As for food, there's a café on the ground floor, but the museum is a few minutes' walk from French Quarter where there are plenty of restaurant options. If it's your first time in DC, I'd put this museum at the top of your list, just due to the historical significance of all the archives that shaped our country. read more

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For people who are deeply interested in American history and looking at preserved documents. The founding documents are located in the Rotunda and are very faded. There isn't a set order to viewing the documents so I can see how hectic and chaotic it may get when crowded. A couple of the exhibits were closed for renovation. On the 2nd floor they have a copy of the Magna Carta. read more

No entrance was allowed from the main stairs leading up to the archives. Instead the group entrance was to the right side of the stairs and the general entrance was to the left. Once inside I had to clear security and had my bag xrayed. Water bottles were ok to bring inside. The rotunda housed the three most important documents for the US: Declaration of Independence, Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Multiple panels around them contained a bit of history behind the documents and people involved. Quite interesting to read through. There was no queues for the documents so one could hop around but for the most part people just went from left to right until they finished looking at everything. The two large murals above contained many of those involved with creating or signing the documents. Two signposts to identify each person was posted in the middle of the floor. I thought the documents seemed faded but could be due to the dim lighting that was intended to protect them. There was only one other room that I visited since a couple were under renovation as well. This was where a copy of the Magna Carta was displayed along with more exhibits around the Bill of Rights and other topics. Worth visiting to see these founding documents. read more

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If this is your vibe you'll enjoy. Great architecture. So many places to see that are very close together. The Staff is very knowledgeable. Put on your comfy shoes and have fun. The ceiling in the main room is stunning read more

National Archives Museum - LOOK AT THE CEILING - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This is a beautiful museum in a beautiful building. Being able to see the original documents of the founding of our country makes this museum a must see! I will break it down below: Content: 5/5 This museum holds the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights and several other incredible documents throughout. It feels awe striking to look at original documents that were held and signed by so many prominent figures in US history. This museum is 2 levels and the building itself is beautiful to look at on the inside. The top level only holds those prominent documents and a nice display of several other important documents and information on them. There is also a couple beautiful paintings of the founding fathers on the walls. There is also a nice display downstairs. The museum is not huge and I wouldn't plan on spending the whole day or even several hours here once you're in. However, when we went it was mid-week and it was not busy at all, so we were able to move fairly quick. Price: 5/5 As with most of the museums in DC, this museum was FREE! this was a nice contrast from the California prices that I'm used to! Parking/Metro: 5/5 for us with the Metro We were going to park but decided on taking the metro in from where we were staying. The metro was extremely convenient and fast for getting all around the city! I would if you are staying here in DC or anywhere near it, I would highly recommend getting the day pass for the metro and leaving the car at the hotel if you get a car at all. If you do decided to drive here, there is parking garages all around. But, I do believe most of them do not allow in and out privileges. Area: 5/5 This is located right next to several Smithsonian museums and not far from the Washington monument. It is very easy to walk around to many different places from here. It is also close to the Metro station or bus stop (which is included in your Metro day pass). Lines: 5/5 For us going mid week during the summer at around 11am, we walked right in with no line. We did have reservations, but it did not matter as there was no line in the standby line either. I would recommending reserving a slot though, because I am sure there are days were this could get very busy! Overall this was an incredible experience and if you are in DC visiting, it is worth the trip! read more

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Great way to beat extremely hot summer temperature in DC by visiting free museums and stay cool and hydrated indoors. Don't miss this one as it offered the allegedly original draft documents of declaration of independence, US constitution and bill of rights in rotunda. You can stroll around Lawrence O'brien gallery as well to learn a few things. There was not much to see except the above mentioned two. Friendly staff. read more

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So moving to see the Bill of Rights, Constitution and Declaration of Independence. The Framers seemed to have got things right. Things may get tested soon. We will see how things pan out if that happens. Well displayed and wonderful to see. read more

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The museum has some of the most valued historical items to observe, so we felt it was a must-see- We arrived Sunday around 4pm to a nearly empty museum- easy to get through security- but then hard to navigate the exhibits, as I felt it wasn't as well marked as others- there were ample security guards throughout- and the only thing very well marked were entrances/exit paths- The museum itself has a lot of added narratives, making it feel like there was more to see & experience than there actually was- lots of fluff- but overall, it was worth seeing the Declaration- the write outs surrounding it made the large room did create a good narrative experience flow- wasn't my favorite of the museums we visited- but now we can say we did it-(saw it) read more

I think U.S. history buffs would love it here! Got to see the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights, and the Magna Carta. I glazed through the galleries featuring sports and the archiving process.  Free admission! No photography allowed. read more

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Stopped on a whim and was totally shocked to see the Emancipation Proclamation on display! The line was long but totally worth the wait. The inner architecture was breathtaking. read more

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What a once in a lifetime opportunity. I went to Washington DC for work and we ate dinner in the National Archives. Yes. No exaggeration we literally had a private tour of the National Archives and then ate dinner. Good food and great information!! read more

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We were here 15 yrs ago when the boys were young & just saw the movie. Since we didn't have a ticket we stood on the walk in line. Here we saw the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. They are getting ready for the 250th independence celebration with new exhibits, galleries & educational spaces. It was very crowded lots of school groups were here. The documents are so old that the look pretty washed out & faded. read more

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No entrance up the main stairs- need to go to either side depending on if you are there with a group. Simply did general admission (which is free) and the line moves pretty quickly. Lots is closed right now (Oct 2024) as they prepare for some special exhibits so mainly just went to the rotunda. As someone kept very loudly reminding us, there's no line or order to view the documents so it's not a very pleasant experience when it's crowded. They also must have changed their photo policy because photos are allowed as long as you don't use a flash. read more

National Archives Museum - Rotunda - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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This is a must see for anyone coming to visit DC. Timed tickets are not required but getting here early is recommended. You'll go through a security check when entering. Before going upstairs to look at all of the famous documents, take a look in the room straight ahead. Magna Carta is worth seeing. Then after you head upstairs, you'll see a long line to get into the most viewed area. The employees tell you not to stand in that long line but for whatever reason, people still stand in the long line. I got some pictures of the US Constitution and Bill of Rights. Didn't get to see the Declaration of Independence. Too many people crowding around, trying to read the faded documents. People, you can read that stuff online instead of squinting your eyes. Just take some pictures, look at it, and move on. Half a star off because they need a better system to keep the crowds to a min. 4.5. read more

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If you've seen the movie National Treasure, say no more. You MUST visit. Located near the National Mall behind the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden, the Archive Museum is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for free. Compared to other nearby museums, it's a bit smaller, but still worth a visit to see the original Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and Bill of Rights. They also have one of four originals of the 1297 Magna Carta. They also have other exhibits, a cafe, and clean restrooms. read more

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The National Archives is a must for anyone who loves U.S. history. It's here where you can see the most important, first documents that without, could not have established the United States of America. With that said, you need to visit the National Archives when you're in D.C. When I visited in February 2023, tickets were required for admission; therefore, check if you need to get timed tickets before entering. I was easily able to get a ticket for the desired time slot, and during my visit, the place was not at all busy. I visited in the last two hours of the museum closing and was basically the last one out. Seriously, a security guard had to kick me out. If you're as nerdy as I am and into history, then make sure you plan a good amount of time to go over the different documents displayed here, as well as the special exhibit that's temporarily here. Photos are not allowed here - respect the documents! Most people come here to visit the one room where the Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights are located. The room is the most secured room with the most staff, and is the darkest and coldest room here. This is on purpose to help preserve these old documents. The documents are displayed in glass cases, which can make for some difficulty for reading all the details. But be mindful of the crowds of people hovering over the glass cases to see the documents, so if there's a line of people waiting, wait in line. If this is the only reason why you're visiting the National Archives then you won't need that much time. But you'll miss out on the other awesome items to see in the other rooms. In the first room most people enter are other important documents displayed throughout history, and it's more of an interactive exhibit where you can learn about the different documents, like legislative bills passed, letters from elected officials, etc. It's pretty cool to see. The special exhibit is also worth a gander. When I visited, it was an exhibit on sports figures, learning about the different athletes and sports played throughout history. I don't think this museum is for everyone, but if it is for you, then you will love visiting the National Archives. It was of course, cool to see founding documents in person. But I was able to see and learn about other documents that have shaped America's history. Pretty cool stuff here! read more

National Archives Museum - Entrance - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Seeing the Magna Carta, Declaration of Independence, and Constitution is something you won't forget. These documents importance is beyond what words can describe. Thank goodness for our bill of rights. Going here is an experience to put it mildly. Goose bumps. My favorite is still John Hancocks large print to King George. Definitely an eloquent way of sending a certain fingered gesture! This is quite a busy exhibition, but considering what this is, that is to be expected. Security does a professional job of keeping folks moving. Due to age the original documents aren't as clear as they used to be. This branch of government is doing all they can, to keep them in the best condition possible. These papers are important to all Americans. Also they are an example to the world, as many countries have adopted tenets from these documents. By all means visit here. read more

National Archives Museum - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia