National Geographic Society announced the launch of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration, a sustainably-built, must-visit experience as part of its reimagined campus in the heart of Washington, D.C.
Scheduled to open in mid-2026, the public attraction, fueled by cutting-edge technologies, will feature one-of-a-kind National Geographic curated exhibitions, immersive and educational experiences, a state-of-the-art theater, restaurant, and retail store.
The Museum of Exploration will accelerate the Society’s mission to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. As a global nonprofit organization, the new Museum of Exploration is a pivotal step forward in the Society’s goal to build on its legacy of convening its global community of National Geographic Explorers — scientists, conservationists, storytellers, and educators — who advance knowledge, inspire action and share their remarkable stories with the public.
When visiting the Museum of Exploration, guests will enter through the 11-foot yellow border, discovering wonders of the world that the Society has illuminated for decades:
- Rolex Explorers Landing: An exhibition dedicated to the innovative equipment and stories from awe-inspiring expeditions, featuring the work and artifacts of Explorers.
- Immersive Experience: Visitors will have the chance to step into the role of an Explorer, immersing themselves in thrilling experiences and fieldwork in exciting and remote locations worldwide.
- State-of-the-Art Theater: A 400-seat theater with innovations that will envelop visitors in stunning audiovisuals through National Geographic films and stories.
- Nighttime Courtyard Experience: Washington, D.C.’s first spectacular outdoor nighttime experience that brings the wonder of our world to life through arresting visuals that National Geographic is known for, coupled with projection mapping, interactive media, and audio scapes.
- And much more, to be announced in the coming months!
Inclusivity and accessibility have been instrumental in the museum’s design and visitor experience. Braille instructional text, tactile and sensory maps, intuitive app support with visual descriptions, American Sign Language (ASL) interpretations of media, refrigerators available for guest medication storage, all-gender restrooms, and wellness rooms that can be used for nursing and low-sensory time are some of the offerings available. All exhibition spaces will feature English and Spanish text, and the experience-based spaces will have Spanish subtitles. Resources will also be available in multiple additional languages.
The Museum of Exploration will open its doors in 2026 to inspire current and future generations in the Washington, D.C. region and worldwide to learn about, care for, and protect the planet. Visitors will leave knowing what it means to be an Explorer and that exploration is for everyone. They will be inspired to become explorers by engaging in, observing, and documenting the world around us.