National Museum of the U.S. Navy

The National Museum of the U.S. Navy was established in 1961 and opened to the public in 1963. As one of 14 Navy museums throughout the country, it is the only one that presents an overview of U.S. naval history. Permanent and temporary exhibitions commemorate the Navy’s wartime heroes and battles as well as its peacetime contributions in exploration, diplomacy, navigation and humanitarian service.

All visitors must have a valid photo ID to enter the Washington Navy Yard to visit the National Museum of the United States Navy. Visitors without a DoD CAC, Uniformed ID and Privileges Card, USG-issued ID, Federal PIV Credentials, or TWIC or an escort with one of these credentials must report to the Visitor Control Center (VCC) at the primary access gate at 11th and O Streets SE (GPS address is 1022 O Street SE, Washington, DC). The VCC is open weekdays, 6:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

If a person is not in possession of one of the aforementioned credentials, there are still two additional ways to gain access. Unescorted individuals can download the Base Access Pass Registration form ahead of their visit and provide the completed document to VCC personnel upon arrival to expedite the process. The form, which vets the individual, is also available at the VCC.

Or they can be accompanied by a federal employee or military member who will serve as their escort; this individual can escort no more than 10 people at a time and serves as a trusted individual responsible for the group. Neither the Washington Navy Yard nor the Museum escort visitors.

Since the VCC is closed on weekends and holidays, visitors can gain access if they have the approved access IDs, accompanied by someone that can gain access, or are pre-vetted. In order to be pre-vetted, the form simply needs to be turned into the VCC at least seven business days in advance. Once approved you will be placed on a list and allowed to gain access on the specified date.