National Archives Foundation — Local services in Washington

The National Archives is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in history, politics, or government. The archive's collection includes everything from presidential records and Supreme Court decisions to photograph records that are created by the federal government, including presidential papers, military and diplomatic records, and census data.

I personally praise the National Archives for its exemplary customer service and knowledgeable staff, who are always available to assist and guide anyone with their inquiries. The reading rooms are spacious and comfortable, modern facilities.

One of the most significant attractions for visitors is the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, housed in the rotunda called the "American Charters." Being able to see these documents in person is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many people and is often the primary reason for visiting the National Archives. Their primary goal is preservation and not exhibition, items on display are selected strategically to maximize their historical value.

The institution allows access to some of the nation's most crucial historical documents. Its knowledgeable staff, efficient facilities, and extensive research resources...

Fantastic. Hugely historic on the one hand and informative about more recent issues on the other. So interesting to be able to view the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights in the Rotunda - an amazing part of the building and worth seeing on its own merit. There is a queue for this but the wait wasn't too long - it was a bit of a bun fight once in though, as we were discouraged from forming a queue to move through the area but rather move more freely between exhibits. Intriguing to see one of the last four remaining copies of the Magna Carta too. Good exhibits explaining the role of the National Archives made the visit more substantial. The entry security was very quick. The only quirk was that despite having pre booked a timed ticket online from.the UK - advised on the website due to high visitor numbers - it was never checked and there were no queues. Good shop to finish the visit. Just for info - No photos...

Visiting the National Archives Museum was an unforgettable and moving experience. Seeing the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights up close gave me chills—these are the actual documents that shaped our nation. The Rotunda is beautifully designed, and there’s something almost sacred about the quiet reverence people show while viewing the Charters of Freedom. The museum does a great job of blending history and storytelling, with exhibits on civil rights, immigration, and pivotal moments in U.S. history. I appreciated how accessible everything was, with helpful staff and well-laid-out displays. It’s not a huge museum, but the impact is massive. If you’re in D.C., this is a must-visit—perfect for history lovers or anyone who wants to feel a deeper connection to the American story. Give yourself time to read and take it all in. I left feeling proud, reflective,...