Some of the most iconic DC attractions and museums require visitors to have a timed entry ticket to enter them. Other sites strongly suggest you get a timed entry ticket to guarantee your entry. In this post, we’ll cover all of the attractions you’ll need to get tickets for and let you know if it is simply a suggestion or a requirement.
Table of Contents
DC Museums and Attractions Requiring Timed Entries
National Museum of African American History and Culture- Suggested
We highly recommend reserving advance-timed passes to this can’t-miss museum. The National Museum of African American History and Culture is one of the newest and most popular museums in DC.
You can obtain up to six advance passes. Timed passes are always required on weekends, while during peak season (March-August), passes are required for entry before 1 p.m. every day of the week. Same-day online passes are released at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday from September – February and every day of the week from March – August.
US Holocaust Memorial- Required
Like the NMAAHC, the US Holocaust Museum is incredibly moving. A visit to this site is a great way to pay homage to those who lost their lives during the Holocaust. The exhibit is gut-wrenching and was perfectly done.
While passes are necessary to enter the Permanent Exhibition from March 1 – Aug. 31, visitors can enter the building without passes to visit the museum’s public memorials, programs, and the Interactive Wexner Center. On its website, the Holocaust Memorial Museum provides detailed information on acquiring advance tickets and same-day tickets for the Permanent Exhibition during the March 1 – Aug. 31 time frame
Bureau of Engraving- Required
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is a U.S. government agency responsible for designing and printing paper currency and other secure government documents. It operates under the Department of the Treasury.
The Washington, D.C. tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing is typically open Monday–Friday, except for federal holidays. Tickets are free, but during the peak season (March–August), they are required and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the Visitor Center. The tour lasts approximately 40 minutes and provides an inside look at the currency production process, from engraving to printing and cutting. The facility is located at 301 14th Street SW, Washington, D.C.
White House- Required
Visiting the White House requires a bit of planning. You’ll need to contact your Congressman and request a visit. Once your background check comes back clear, you’ll be able to select a time. To learn more about how to visit the White House, take a look at our post.
US Capitol- Suggested
While timed entry tickets aren’t required for this top attraction, they are strongly recommended. Same-day passes are available at Information Desks on the lower level of the Capitol Visitor Center, although availability can become limited during spring, summer and the holiday season.
Ford's Theatre- Required
Ford’s Theatre is the playhouse where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. All visitors need a ticket to enter Ford’s Theatre. Access to the museum and theater is not included in every ticket, so select your ticket option carefully. We suggest making sure your ticket includes the Petersen House and the Aftermath Exhibit.
Library of Congress
While the Library of Congress isn’t high up on everyone’s list, it should be! The World’s Largest Library was stunning and remarkably impressive. Visit this website to get your tickets.
Washington Monument
There are two different ways to experience the Washington Monument. First, you can admire the massive white obelisk from the exterior. The monument is visible from pretty much everywhere along the National Mall. If you’re flying into Dulles, chances are you’ll even be able to see it from your plane.
The second way is to ride the elevator to the top of the monument for impressive views of the National Mall. If you want to go this route, you’ll need a timed entry. For the life of me, I haven’t been able to secure tickets. Hopefully, you’ll have better luck! Visit Recreation.gov to get your tickets.
National Archives- Recommended
The National Archives houses America’s founding documents. From March to Labor Day, there may be long lines to enter the National Archives. To avoid these lines, you can reserve through recreation.gov for timed entry.
National Air & Space Museum- Required
If you’re traveling with kids (or simply just love space), a day at the National Air & Space Museum is an absolute must.
The museum got a facelift in 2022 and it is awesome. We had so much fun learning about aviation and space exploration. The museum even had a collection of race cars in it- which the kids LOVED!
Tickets can be acquired here.
Save a Pin & Start Planning Your Adventure
There are so many incredible things to see and do in DC. We’ve compiled some of our favorites in our 4-Day DC Itinerary.
If you need tips on how to schedule a tour of the White House, Visiting DC with Kids, or Riding the Metro, we’ve got you covered! Check out our Ultimate Guide to the National Mall or 15 Must-See Places in Washington DC for more great things to do on your trip!
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