General Group Guidelines

1. It is difficult to keep a large group together for the entire visit. Large groups should consider splitting into subgroups of 12, so that everyone can enjoy their time in the museum. 

2. Prepare to stand for long periods of time in the museum and wear comfortable shoes. 

3. Know before you go. Prepare for your visit by reading our frequently asked questions. Study the museum floor plans on our website (National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC or the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA). Understand what is and is not allowed inside the museum at Smithsonian Institution Photography Policy.

4. Travel lightly. Lockers are not available at our location on the National Mall.

5. Plan for your departure. Make sure to designate a meeting location so your group can reassemble and leave the museum together. 

Guidelines for Educational Groups

1. Chaperone to student ratio requirements must be maintained throughout the duration of the visit: 

  • Pre-K through 3rd Grade: 1 adult for every 5 students  
  • 4th through 6th Grade: 1 adult for every 10 students
  • 7th through 12th Grade: 1 adult for every 15 students  

Please note that chaperones are to be included in total group count. 

2. It is the responsibility of the chaperone to stay with the group and keep students together. 

3. Chaperones are requested to promote "museum manners" by encouraging the group to:

  • Use quiet voices
  • Walk, don’t run
  • Remember Museum exhibits must be respected so everyone can enjoy them. 
  • Remember that gum, candy, food, and beverages are not allowed in the Museum. 
  • Remember rough-play - like throwing, running, spitting, backflips, or shouting- is not promoting “museum manners.’ 
  • Enjoy purchases from the Museum shop after your visit, but remember that visitors who use their purchases inappropriately in the Museum risk confiscation