In mid-2026, The National Geographic Society opened its National Geographic Museum of Exploration, the organization’s global headquarters in Washington, D.C. The opening marks a major revitalization of the nearly 130-year-old campus, featuring more than 100,000 square feet of new public space dedicated to inspiring the explorer in every visitor.
The Society’s audacious vision had a a total project budget of more than $300 million, made possible through dedicated fundraising and generous donor contributions. The reimagined museum utilizes cutting-edge, immersive technology, serving as a center for global discovery for families, travelers and the curious at heart.
© National Geographic Society
“The Museum of Exploration is where our legacy of storytelling meets the experiential technology of today, inviting everyone to step into the worlds of National Geographic Explorers,” said Jill Tiefenthaler, CEO, National Geographic Society. “ Every inch is designed to immerse visitors in Explorers’ journeys, the tools that move exploration forward, and the curiosity that drives our mission to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world.”
The Museum of Exploration features an unprecedented collection of interactive and educational experiences, all under one roof. Highlights include the striking Pavilion entrance; the Archives exhibition, which celebrates the Society’s legacy of storytelling; and the inspirational Rolex Explorers Landing, which highlights the journey from a National Geographic Explorer’s first spark of curiosity to their lasting impact. Visitors can also satisfy their appetite atExplorers Eatery, an international food hall featuring authentic dishes delivering a globally inspired dining experience.
© National Geographic Society
Visitors of all ages can experience a 360-degree view of wildlife from around the globe in ”Photo Ark: Animals of Earth,” a temporary exhibition featuring striking portraits taken by photographer Joel Sartore that invite viewers to connect with each animal and inspire them to take action for wildlife. Across the hall, they can view a curated collection of the Society’s most powerful and enduring images at the In Focus: Photographs of National Geographic exhibition. Highlights include George Shiras’ first photo of wildlife taken at night, Ami Vitale’s emotive photo of the last male northern white rhinoceros, and Steve Winter’s photo of a Bengal tigress and her cub taken after a tireless 24-day pursuit of the pair in India’s Bandhavgarh National Park. In the Michigan woods, camera traps capture the first images of wildlife at night. Early devices used glass plate negatives and magnesium flash powder.
The Society commits to ensuring the museum is as welcoming as it is inspiring. Exhibit signage throughout the museum will be available in English and Spanish, with Braille messaging in both languages available at key wayfinding points. Captioning, visual descriptions and American Sign Language are featured in media throughout the experience. Additionally, a selection of tactile photographs will be included in the “In Focus” gallery. Seeking LEED Platinum certification through green construction and waste diversion, the project prioritizes sustainability and accessibility at every level.
© National Geographic Society
General admission for the Museum of Exploration starts at $29.99 for adults, with dynamic pricing anticipated to launch prior to the grand opening. Driven by the belief cost should never be a barrier to curiosity, the Society partners with Museums for All to offer discounted admission to visitors who qualify.
The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organization that uses the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Since 1888, National Geographic has pushed the boundaries of exploration, investing in bold people and transformative ideas; providing more than 16,000 grants for work across all seven continents; reaching 3 million students each year through education offerings; and engaging audiences around the globe through signature experiences, stories and content.
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