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Washington, D.C.

National Archives Museum

The original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights are displayed together in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom. The Archives also keeps records many families use to trace their history, including some immigration and naturalization records.

Official visitor website(opens visit.archives.gov in a new tab)
The columned National Archives Building in Washington, D.C.

All landmarks

Photo: David Samuel, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The story

  • Founding, Independence & Government
  • Immigration & Becoming American

Why it matters

The original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights are displayed together in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom. The Archives also keeps records many families use to trace their history, including some immigration and naturalization records.

Why it may matter to you

Seeing the original Constitution and Bill of Rights is a powerful way to connect with the documents behind your citizenship. Read our plain-English versions before you go.

The fuller story

The documents on display were written by people who did not extend their protections to everyone. Later amendments, court decisions, and movements expanded who those rights protect.

Plan your visit

Hours, prices, reservations, and closures change. Check the official visitor website.
Time to allow
1–2 hours (our estimate)
Setting
Mostly indoor
Tickets and reservations
Tickets or reservations may be needed at busy times. Check the official visitor website.
Getting there
Metrorail and buses serve the National Mall; street parking is limited and paid. Many visitors walk between Mall sites.
With family
Lines can form for the Rotunda; the exhibits suit older children best.
Seasons and weather
Busiest in spring and summer.
Accessibility
See the operator's website for accessibility information.
Times are estimates and distances are straight-line. Citizen Navigator is an independent educational resource. Visitor access and conditions change. Confirm current details with the destination's official operator.