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Museum · Washington, D.C., Washington, D.C.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
National museum dedicated to the history of the Holocaust, opened in 1993 next to the National Mall, with a permanent exhibition across three floors, the Hall of Remembrance and a display for children. The main exhibition is recommended for ages 11 and up.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
The museum opened in April 1993, near the Washington Monument, as the United States’ national memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. The building, by architect James Ingo Freed, uses brick, steel and glass to evoke—without reproducing—the structures of Nazi camps and ghettos.
The permanent exhibition spans three floors and tells the story in chronological order, from the rise of Nazism in 1933 to the end of the war and the consequences for survivors, using objects, photographs, films and testimonies. The visit begins at the top, with the assignment of an identity card of a real person who lived through that period. It is recommended for visitors 11 years and older.
The Hall of Remembrance, a hexagonal chamber with an eternal flame, is the space for memory where visitors can light candles. For younger children there is the Remember the Children: Daniel’s Story exhibit, which recounts the experience of a Jewish boy during the war. The museum also maintains one of the largest archives on the subject, open to researchers.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 to 3 hours.
Best time
In the morning, right at opening. The permanent exhibition requires a timed-entry pass; check the museum website before you go. The permanent exhibition will be closed from January 2027 through 2029; during that period, check what other exhibitions are available.
How to get there
It is on Raoul Wallenberg Place, between 14th and 15th Streets, south of the National Mall. Smithsonian metro station (Blue, Orange and Silver lines) is a few minutes’ walk away.
Tip
Reserve the timed-entry pass for the permanent exhibition in advance and allow time after your visit for the Hall of Remembrance.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Do you need a reservation for the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum?
The permanent exhibition requires a timed-entry pass; check the museum’s rules on its website before you go.
From what age is the Holocaust Museum exhibition recommended?
The permanent exhibition is recommended for ages 11 and up; for younger children there is the Daniel’s Story display.
How long does a visit to the Holocaust Museum in Washington take?
Between two and three hours for the permanent exhibition.