National Postal Museum: A must-see free attraction for families in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., is overflowing with museums. The quality and density of its museums are unmatched in other cities, and almost all are free to enter. Simply make a reservation on the official website or walk in on the day. While the National Postal Museum isn't as well-known as some of the other Smithsonian museums, its rich and sophisticated collections and exceptional curatorial expertise are truly impressive! It's so impressive, you might even wonder if it's free!

The National Postal Museum is located very close to Union Station, just a two-minute walk away. No tickets or reservations are required; admission is free during business hours. Formerly the Washington Post Office, the two-story museum is like stepping into a stamp tunnel, with captivating exhibits that are truly captivating. Not only can you see a diverse and fascinating collection of stamps from around the world, you can also visit an actual mailroom where mail was delivered, and learn about the history of mail delivery and the work of postal workers through live displays of horse-drawn carriages, wagons, and airplanes. It's a very interactive experience! The kids had a blast here!

In addition to the regular exhibition areas mentioned above, the Postal Museum regularly presents special exhibitions, exploring the intricacies of postal services and their impact on people's lives from diverse perspectives. Our visit coincided with a special exhibition on baseball and the postal service. Seeing the history of baseball through the lens of the postal service was truly unique. The curators also thoughtfully borrowed a wealth of exhibits from other Smithsonian museums and collectors around the world, enhancing the exhibition's appeal. The overall experience was truly remarkable! It was truly breathtaking!

Not only is admission free, but everyone can also take home a souvenir! The museum features a stamp display area displaying a vast collection of used stamps. Each person can choose six of their favorite stamps to take home as a souvenir. Used stamps are not only more unique, but the selection is incredibly diverse, and everyone had a blast choosing. The museum's souvenir shop also sells stamps, featuring many unique stamp sets. Overall, the Postal Museum experience was truly wonderful, and I highly recommend it to visitors visiting DC.

Post by Miniontheroad | Sep 4, 2025