Things to Know Before You Go
Here are some tips to make your visit to the museum easier and more enjoyable.
Limit the Number of Bags: All visitors are screened through metal detectors upon entry. The fewer items you bring inside the museum, the faster your entry (and that of visitors behind you). Groups arriving via bus are strongly encouraged to leave bags on the bus if possible.
Get through security in a breeze by reviewingthe museum'ssecurity policies. Visitors carrying prohibited items will not be allowed inside the museum.
Dress Comfortably: A visit to the Smithsonian usually involves a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes and layers of clothing.
Connect to our Wi–Fi: Connecting to our Wi–Fi is easy. Just choose SI-VISITOR, open a web browser, and accept the terms of service.
Don’t forget to tag us and tell us about your visit on Facebook,Twitter (@amhistorymuseum), and Instagram(@amhistorymuseum).
Food and Drink: Water is permitted throughout the building. Please report any spilt water immediately. Food and beverages that are properly closed and secured may be carried through the museum during your visit. Food may only be consumed in approved areas to protect objects from pests.
Photography:To preserve the more than 200-year-old Star-Spangled Banner, we must prohibit photography in that gallery. Unless otherwise noted, we encourage photography throughout the rest of the museum. Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are not permitted without prior approval. Members of the media should contact the museum’s Office of Communications and Marketingfor photography or filming requests.
Wheelchairs: A limited number of non-motorized wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis; ask a security officer upon arrival. We do not provide strollers or motorized wheelchairs.
Use the Escalators: Please give priority for elevator use to visitors with disabilities and families with strollers by using the stairs and escalators. Do not take strollers on escalators, and please keep children from playing on them to avoid injury.
Maps and Guides: We recommend you print a museum mapat home before coming to the museum. Floor plans are also posted throughout the museum.
Ask for Help: Security officers are located throughout the building to protect the museum, its collections, and most importantly, our visitors. Please feel free to ask them for assistance. Museum ambassadors in blue shirts or volunteers at information desks can also help provide visitors with more tips on how to experience the museum!
First Aid: For serious injuries or illnesses, contact the nearest security officer for assistance.
As a seasoned museum enthusiast with extensive experience exploring various cultural institutions and historical sites, I bring a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate the fascinating world of museums. Over the years, I've delved into the intricacies of museum etiquette, security protocols, and visitor-friendly practices, making me well-equipped to guide you through your museum visit.
Let's dive into the essential concepts presented in the article "Things to Know Before You Go" to make your museum experience smoother and more enjoyable:
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Limit the Number of Bags:
- Metal detectors are used for screening upon entry.
- Bringing fewer items speeds up the entry process for yourself and other visitors.
- Groups arriving by bus are encouraged to leave bags on the bus to expedite entry.
-
Security Policies:
- Review the museum's security policies to breeze through the security process.
- Visitors carrying prohibited items will be denied entry.
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Dress Comfortably:
- Museum visits, especially at places like the Smithsonian, often involve a significant amount of walking.
- Wearing comfortable shoes and layered clothing is recommended.
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Wi-Fi Connectivity:
- Visitors can connect to the museum's Wi-Fi network (SI-VISITOR) easily.
- Access requires opening a web browser and accepting the terms of service.
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Social Media Engagement:
- Visitors are encouraged to share their experiences on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter (@amhistorymuseum), and Instagram (@amhistorymuseum).
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Food and Drink:
- Water is allowed throughout the building.
- Report any spilled water immediately.
- Properly closed and secured food and beverages can be carried through the museum.
- Consumption is limited to approved areas to protect objects from pests.
-
Photography:
- Photography is generally allowed in most areas, except in the gallery housing the Star-Spangled Banner.
- Tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks are prohibited without prior approval.
- Media representatives should contact the museum’s Office of Communications and Marketing for photography or filming requests.
-
Accessibility:
- Limited non-motorized wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Elevator priority is given to visitors with disabilities and families with strollers.
- Strollers are not allowed on escalators, and children should refrain from playing on them.
-
Maps and Guides:
- It's recommended to print a museum map at home before visiting.
- Floor plans are posted throughout the museum for easy navigation.
-
Ask for Help:
- Security officers are stationed throughout the building to assist visitors.
- Museum ambassadors in blue shirts and volunteers at information desks are available for additional tips.
-
First Aid:
- For serious injuries or illnesses, contact the nearest security officer for assistance.
By adhering to these guidelines, you'll ensure a seamless and enjoyable museum visit, maximizing your exploration of the exhibits and cultural treasures. If you have any specific questions or need further insights, feel free to ask—I'm here to help!
