Some Simple Rules
To ensure the enjoyment and safety of all museum visitors, these rules should be shared with each member of the group:
- Food, drinks, and gum are not allowed anywhere in the museum and must be kept in sealed containers. Water bottles, nursing, and bottle feeding are fine.
- Walking and talking are appropriate, while running and shouting are not.
- Wearing a properly fitting mask is a good idea, but not required.
- Practice good hygiene by washing hands and using hand sanitizer.
The most updated information on health and safety requirements can be found on the Plan Your Visit page or the Smithsonian Tips and Guidelines page.
Chaperone Policy
All children (under the age of 18) must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. When accompanying children, one (1) adult can chaperone up to a maximum of ten (10) children.
Bus Drop-Off
The official bus drop-off site is Constitution Avenue on the North side of our building. The Smithsonian has no parking for buses. The District of Columbia Department of Transportation (202-727-1000) may have bus parking suggestions.
Entering the Museum
- All groups must enter the museum through the general entry line. We are not currently accepting reservations for expedited entry.
- To speed entry into the building, carry as little as possible (backpacks, bags, etc.). Security checks are required of museum visitors, and all bags are inspected. For more information on permissible items can be found at our Visitor Tips page.
- If you request accessibility accommodations for your visit, tell the staff member greeting guests outside or at the information desk; they will make sure your accommodations are ready.
Lunches
The museum's Atrium Café is available for groups to purchase food during their visit. The most up-to-date information on the operating status, hours, and offerings can be found on the Dining & Shopping page.
Café seating is reserved for visitors who purchase food and brown bag lunches may not be eaten within the museum.
We do not offer storage or eating facilities for brown bag lunches inside the museum, and all food and drink must be in sealed containers if being brought into the museum.
Programming or Experiences
We are not currently accepting reservation requests for private, in-person experiences for groups visiting the museum — this includes guided tours and the Butterfly Pavilion.
For student groups, during the school year we are offering both in-person and online programs led by museum educators that are aligned with standards for Grades K-12. To view these options and sign up, browse our School Programs page.
Plan Your Route
The museum has a large footprint and it is easy to get disoriented or lost. We recommend printing museum maps for your group. Get printable museum maps here.
Request Accessibility Accommodations
The museum's entrances, exhibitions, and restrooms are fully accessible. See our accessibility page for specific amenities.
To Avoid Crowds ...
The best time to plan a quieter visit is during the winter months (January and February). If you plan a visit for the spring months (March through June), which are very crowded, your group may require extra supervision and you might require additional time for your visit.
As a seasoned museum enthusiast with a passion for creating enjoyable and safe experiences for visitors, I've not only explored numerous museums but also actively engaged in the intricacies of museum policies and practices. I've closely followed trends in museum management, visitor engagement, and safety protocols. Allow me to delve into the concepts outlined in the article and provide a comprehensive understanding of each aspect.
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Food, Drinks, and Gum Policy:
- The prohibition of food, drinks, and gum within the museum is a standard practice aimed at preserving the exhibits and maintaining a clean environment. This is a common policy in museums worldwide to prevent accidental spills, litter, and potential damage to artifacts.
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Walking and Talking Etiquette:
- The distinction between appropriate behavior (walking and talking) and unacceptable conduct (running and shouting) aligns with the universal etiquette observed in cultural institutions. This ensures a calm and contemplative atmosphere, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
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Mask Wearing Policy:
- The mention of wearing a properly fitting mask, while not mandatory, reflects contemporary health considerations. This policy acknowledges the ongoing relevance of health and safety measures, with the flexibility to accommodate individual preferences and comfort levels.
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Hygiene Practices:
- Emphasizing good hygiene through handwashing and hand sanitizer usage underscores the commitment to visitor well-being. This aligns with broader public health guidelines and serves as a proactive measure to mitigate the spread of germs in a high-traffic environment.
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Chaperone Policy:
- Requiring adult chaperones for children under 18 ensures the safety and supervision of young visitors. The specified ratio of one adult per ten children is a standard guideline, balancing the need for supervision with practical considerations.
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Bus Drop-Off and Parking Information:
- Providing details about the official bus drop-off site and directing visitors to local transportation authorities for parking suggestions reflects a practical approach to managing group arrivals. It acknowledges the logistical challenges associated with large groups arriving by bus.
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Entry Procedures and Security Checks:
- The emphasis on entering through the general entry line, avoiding reservations for expedited entry, and the need to undergo security checks aligns with standard museum practices. These measures are in place to ensure the safety of visitors and the security of the museum's collections.
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Café and Lunch Policies:
- The availability of the Atrium Café for group food purchases, restrictions on brown bag lunches within the museum, and the requirement for sealed containers address the logistical aspects of catering to large groups while maintaining cleanliness and order.
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Programming and Experiences:
- The information on not accepting reservations for private, in-person experiences for groups underscores the current operational constraints. However, the provision of alternative programming options for student groups demonstrates adaptability and commitment to educational engagement.
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Planning Your Route and Accessibility:
- The recommendation to print museum maps and the focus on accessibility accommodations acknowledge the diverse needs of visitors. It reflects a proactive approach to ensuring that all individuals can navigate and enjoy the museum comfortably.
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Timing Recommendations:
- Advising groups to plan visits during quieter periods (winter months) or acknowledging the need for extra supervision during crowded periods (spring months) demonstrates a nuanced understanding of visitor dynamics. It encourages strategic planning for an optimal museum experience.
In summary, the presented rules and policies encompass a holistic approach to visitor satisfaction, safety, and logistical considerations. These practices align with established museum norms and demonstrate a commitment to providing an inclusive and enjoyable experience for diverse groups of visitors.
