Guided Tour of the National Academy of Sciences Building

Tour the “nation’s home of science in America.”

Take a one hour guided tour of the beautiful National Academy of Sciences building at 2101 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C. Dedicated by President Calvin Coolidge in April 1924 and designed by architect Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue, the building’s architecture is a unique fusion of classical elements and “irregular” forms and celebrates the history and significance of science.

On this tour, admire rich Hellenic, Byzantine, and Egyptian architectural influences and touches of Art Deco. Explore the Great Hall with iconography by Hildreth Meière and other ceremonial rooms with architectural sculpture by Lee Lawrie and murals by Albert Herter. You’ll also peek inside the acoustically brilliant Fred Kavli Auditorium, part of the 1970 wing.

Enjoy artwork and exhibitions exploring intersections of art, science, and culture.

This tour is organized by the Cultural Programs of the National Academy of Sciences (CPNAS). CPNAS sponsors exhibitions, salons, theatrical readings, and other events that explore relationships among the arts and sciences. The NAS is a private, nonprofit institution that recognizes achievement in science by election to membership, and — with the National Academy of Engineering and the National Academy of Medicine — provides science, technology, and health policy advice to the federal government and other organizations.  

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Visitor Code of Conduct?
Read the full visitor code of conduct guidelines here.

What is the Photo ID Requirement?

This is an in-person event. A valid government-issued photo ID (such as a driver’s license or passport) is required to enter the building.

What time should I arrive?
Please arrive 5 to 15 minutes before the tour. Latecomers will miss this opportunity.

Do I need to show my ID and reservation ticket?
Please bring a copy of your confirmation message (print or on your phone) along with a valid government-issued photo ID to your appointment to show security.

Where do I enter the NAS Building?
Please enter at 2100 C Street.

Is there public transportation nearby?
The closest Metro station is Foggy Bottom on the blue, orange, and silver lines. It is a .75 mile walk (about 15-20 minutes) from Foggy Bottom to the National Academy of Sciences. The D74, D82, and D96 Metrobuses stop nearby as well.

Is there parking nearby?
Limited complimentary parking is available in the Visitors Lot located at 256 21st NW, just south of the intersection of 21st and C Sts NW. Spaces are not guaranteed and are available on a first come, first served basis. Tell the guard in the booth that you are attending the guided tour of the NAS Building. Metered parking is also available on nearby streets including Constitution Avenue NW, Virginia Avenue NW, and 23rd St NW.

Uber/Taxi drop off point?
If traveling via Taxi, Uber, or Lyft, we recommend setting the Albert Einstein Memorial as your drop off point, from there, walk up 22nd St, turn right on C St., N.W., and enter the back entrance at 2100 C St. NW. After the tour, there is also a taxicab stand conveniently located near the intersection of 22nd St and C St NW.

Wheelchair Accessibility?
There is a ramp from the sidewalk to our back entrance at 2100 C St NW.

Can I purchase food on site?
There isn’t a public cafeteria on site. Pack a snack and a drink! There are water fountains on site and several food trucks frequent the area.

Is Auditory Assistance Provided?
Yes! Email us at cpnas@nas.edu if you anticipate that you will need an auditory assistive device on the tour.

Still Have a Question?
Email us at cpnas@nas.edu