Some of the country's most revered institutions are located in the nations capital along with the national museum archives that belong to the American people. The museum list is long and impressive, so on this site we will give you a brief summary of what these amazing institutions have to offer. Click here to see museums in the DC area.

Adjacent Area Museums in Maryland

Great Falls Tavern & Museum/ Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historic Park - An 1828 structure built along the canal route, the tavern houses historic exhibits about the canal and presents films and cultural programs to the public about the park. Tickets may be purchased here for the C & O Canal Boat trips. / 11710 MacArthur Blvd. / 301-299-3613 / Admission Free

Imagine That - A childrens museum that offers interactive play and experiences from play, drama, music as well as several large exhibits including a full sized fire engine, airplane and ambulance. / 1616 Jefferson Ave. / Rockville MD / 301-468-2101 / Modest Fee

National Capital Trolley Museum - Two car houses display American and European antique streetcars along as well as a short trolley ride are offered. Many photos and displays feature Washington D.C. during the trolley car era. / Bonifant Rd. / Wheaton MD / 301-384-6088 / Modest Fee

Paul E. Garber Preservation, Restoration and Storage Facility / Smithsonian Institution - The storage and restoration maintenance facility for the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, see expert craftsmen at work preserving vintage icons of the air. (Reservations for touring can be made in writing through the Smithsonian Institution or call at least 48 hours in advance. Tour reservations required and FYI - the facility has no restrooms or air-conditioning.) / Old Silver Hill & St. Barnabas Roads / Suitland MD / 202-357-1400 / Admission Free

Surratt House and Museum - Restored 1852 house and tavern of Mary Surratt and first place John Wilkes Booth came when he made his escape Washington after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. / 9118 Brandywine Rd. / Clinton MD / 301-868-1121 / Modest Fee

Adjacent Area Museums in Virginia

Fort Ward Museum and Historic Site - Part of the defenses around Washington during the Civil War, the museum displays changing exhibits about the conflict, concerts and lectures are given throughout the year. The grounds are a great place for a picnic. / 4301 W. Braddock Rd. / Alexandria VA / 703-838-4848 / Admission Free

The Manassas Museum - This is a comprehensive museum covering the history of Manassas and northern Virginia, from the colonial period, through the Civil War and beyond, including toys and African-American exhibits. / 9101 Prince William St. / Manassas VA / 703-368-1873 / Modest Fee

National Firearms Museum / National Rifle Association Headquarters - Antique firearms to modern handguns are displayed with documentation of battles and events the guns were used. Interactive computer terminals providing detailed information on all types of firearms are available for use. / 11250 Waples Mill Rd. / Fairfax VA / 703-267-1600 / Admission Free

Newseum - A unique and first of it's kind, the Newseum is an interactive center that explains the how and why of news dissemination. See how events become news from behind the scenes. / 1101 Wilson Blvd. / Arlington VA / 703-284-3544 / Admission Free

Reserve Early...while your preferred accommodations are still available.