TOUR: National Geographic Museum of Exploration
National Geographic Museum of Exploration
1145 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
Saturday, October 10, 2026
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Registration Required | Tickets $28/person | No Refunds
Join OLLI for a special visit to the newly opened National Geographic Museum of Exploration, an exciting new destination at the National Geographic Society’s historic Washington headquarters. Representing the most significant transformation of the National Geographic campus in its history, the museum encompasses more than 100,000 square feet of public space designed to ignite the explorer within each visitor.
Our guided program, Home of the Explorer, traces the remarkable evolution of the National Geographic Society, from its founding in 1888 and the construction of its first permanent Washington home to the creation of the Museum of Exploration, a state-of-the-art center dedicated to inspiring curiosity about our world. Through stories of explorers, scientists, photographers, and storytellers, participants will discover how National Geographic has spent more than a century expanding our understanding of the planet and its people.
Following our one-hour guided tour, participants are welcome to remain in the museum and explore at their own pace. The Museum of Exploration features immersive exhibits, iconic photography, innovative technology, and interactive experiences that bring exploration, conservation, science, and culture to life. While visitors may spend as much or as little time as they wish, the museum recommends allowing approximately two additional hours to experience the exhibits fully.
Meeting Place:
Please plan to arrive by 9:45 AM at the museum’s dedicated Group Entrance located on the 16th Street NW side of the building. OLLI tour coordinator Elena Vejarano and our museum guide will be there to greet participants upon arrival.
Getting There:
The closest Metro station is Farragut North (Red Line), approximately a 5-minute walk from the museum. Farragut West (Blue, Orange, and Silver Lines) is also nearby. Limited metered street parking may be available in the surrounding area, and several commercial parking garages are located within a few blocks of the museum.
Lunch Recommendations:
For those wishing to continue the day with lunch, several popular restaurants are located within walking distance of the museum, including Old Ebbitt Grill, The Hamilton, Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab, and Founding Farmers.