The National Building Museum, located in Washington D.C., was founded in 1851 and is known as one of the oldest museums in the United States.
This museum houses a vast collection of materials and exhibits that make it a must-visit tourist attraction for those interested in architecture and urban planning. The exhibits include works by architects from the United States and abroad, information on architectural techniques and materials, displays on urban planning, and exhibits on landscape design.
In this guide, we will provide detailed instructions on how to get to the National Building Museum in Washington D.C.
Accessing the Museum via Metro
Using the metro is very convenient when visiting the National Building Museum. The nearest station is Judiciary Square, just one stop away from Union Station, the gateway to Washington D.C. When you exit the station, the museum is right in front of you. The metro is a highly convenient mode of transportation within the city and is recommended for tourists.
Directions for Using the Bus
If you prefer to use the bus routes in Washington D.C., the closest bus stop is the 7th Street D Street stop. It is only a 2-minute walk from the museum. Buses can be crowded compared to the metro, but they are a convenient mode of transportation within the city.
Using a Taxi or Driving
Although Washington D.C. roads are often congested, it is possible to visit the museum by taxi or car. The nearest parking lot to the museum is located at 401 F Street.
Must-Visit Tourist Spots to Combine with the Museum Visit
Since the National Building Museum is located in front of a metro station, it provides convenient access to other tourist spots in the Washington D.C. area. Here are some recommended tourist spots to visit in conjunction with the museum:
Capitol Hill
This elevated hill is home to the United States Capitol, and the surrounding area includes the Supreme Court and the Library of Congress. It is a must-visit place for architecture enthusiasts. The Library of Congress, in particular, houses numerous books and materials related to architecture.
National Gallery of Art
This national art museum showcases domestic and international artworks. It is recommended for those interested in architecture and art.
Smithsonian Institution Museums
A complex of museums scattered around the National Mall, encompassing various fields. The National Building Museum is also one of the museums within this institution.
Washington Monument
A memorial dedicated to the first U.S. President, George Washington. With a height of 169 meters, you can enjoy panoramic views of Washington D.C.’s cityscape from the observation deck.

The Washington Monument, standing majestically at the heart of the National Mall in Washington, D.C., is an impressive s...
Capital One Arena
A sports facility located one block west of the National Building Museum, serving as the home arena for the NBA’s Washington Wizards.
Using the metro is recommended for accessing the museum
Using the metro is the most efficient way to access the National Building Museum, as it is located right in front of the nearest station.
Moreover, having a nearby metro station means it provides good access not only to Washington D.C. but also to the surrounding areas. Therefore, we highly recommend utilizing the metro for transportation during your visit.