Unlocking the Vault of History at the National Archives in Washington, D.C.
The National Archives Building in Washington, DC is a welcoming destination for visitors of all abilities. The building and its surrounding areas are designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
For those planning a visit, the National Archives offers a free shuttle service that connects the National Archives buildings in Washington, DC, and College Park, MD. The shuttle service operates on the hour from 8 to 10 a.m. and then from 2 to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. It is fully accessible for persons with disabilities and lift-equipped for wheelchairs. To make arrangements for this service, simply call 301-837-3263.
The Pennsylvania Avenue entrance of the National Archives is directly across the street from the Archives/Navy Memorial station, which is served by the Metrorail System. The station also features an elevator to street level, making it easily accessible for all visitors. The shuttle service does not repeat earlier facts about the Pennsylvania Avenue and Constitution Avenue entrances being wheelchair accessible.
The National Archives can be entered on Constitution Avenue between 7th and 9th Street NW. For visitors with disabilities, it's worth noting that the building is centrally located and typically served by accessible city transportation. However, specific parking or drop-off details for visitors with disabilities at the Washington, DC location are not explicitly provided.
For those visiting the National Archives Research Center in College Park, MD (Archives II), accessible designated parking is available closest to elevators on all three levels of the parking garage. Parking opens at 8:00 AM and requires photo ID upon entry. Overnight parking is not permitted, and additional security screening may occur based on threat levels. Visitors are advised to use public transportation when possible due to occasional parking limitations.
In summary, the National Archives Building in DC is wheelchair accessible with wheelchair-friendly transportation nearby and accessible interior surfaces. Public transportation is a recommended, accessible option for getting there. For the College Park research facility, accessible parking spaces near elevators are available with photo ID checks required at entry.
If you plan to visit the National Archives in Washington, DC, you may want to call the National Archives directly to ask about specific accessible parking or drop-off options. The guided tour provider referenced offers an accessibility contact number: 1 855 275 5071 and can answer accessibility questions related to the building.
[1] Source: National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) website and visitor services contact information.
- The National Archives Building in Washington, DC, has wheelchair-accessible entrances on Pennsylvania Avenue and Constitution Avenue, and it's conveniently located near the accessible Archives/Navy Memorial station on the Metrorail System.
- For visitors planning to drive to the National Archives Research Center in College Park, MD (Archives II), accessible parking is available on all three levels of the parking garage, but it's recommended to use public transportation due to occasional parking limitations.
