The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) is the nation's record keeper. Many people know the National Archives as the keeper of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. But it also holds in trust for the public the records of ordinary citizens—for example, military records of the brave men and women who have fought for the United States, naturalization records of the immigrants whose dreams have shaped our nation, and even the canceled check from the purchase of Alaska.

Entry to the National Archives museum is free. Reservations are not required for individuals or groups wishing to visit the National Archives Museum, but they are strongly suggested between March and Labor Day to avoid potentially long lines outside.

• Tickets are normally available 90 days in advance.
• All visitors will go through security screening upon entry.
• Persons arriving after their scheduled ticket time are not guaranteed admission to the museum.
• There is a non-refundable $1.00 convenience fee per ticket.

Timed-Entry Reservations

Self-guided, timed-entry reservations are normally offered every 15 minutes from 10am to 4:30pm daily.

• Visitors may reserve up to 6 tickets per reservation. For larger groups, you may make more than one reservation for the same time and date, subject to ticket availability.
• Timed-Entry reservation holders use the Museum's general admission entrance on the left side of the great staircase on Constitution Avenue, NW.