We hope this list of tips and FAQs will make your visit to the Museum easier and more enjoyable. Staff are also available to answer your questions. Please see the Udvar-Hazy Center visit page for visitor safety requirements related to COVID-19.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Museum doing to keep people safe?
The Museum’s top priority is the safety of our visitors and staff. We’ve put specific measures into place to keep everyone safe, such as extra cleaning and disinfecting of the building, requirement of face coverings for visitors and staff, encouraging social distancing while visiting and by our staff, and limiting the number of people in the building at any given time, etc.
We ask that our visitors help us and those around them by doing their part to keep everyone safe, by wearing a face covering, practicing social distancing, and washing hands frequently before, during and after their visit.
Why do visitors need timed-entry passes?
Timed-entry passes limit the number of people in the building at one time to allow for sufficient social distancing and the ability for Museum staff to clean/disinfect areas of the building more frequently. Passes may be printed at home or scanned from your cell phone. Visitors can reserve timed-entry passes online or by phone.
Is there a limit to the number of timed-entry passes that an individual can reserve?
Yes, visitors are able to secure up to six passes maximum for personal use only. For the safety of our visitors and staff, groups larger than six are strictly prohibited.
Are larger quantities of timed-entry passes available for groups/tour operators?
Not currently. We hope to offer passes to groups of more than six in early 2021.
Do infants and/or children require timed-entry passes?
Yes. Each visitor requires a pass, including infants and children.
All children (under the age of 18) must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. At least one adult chaperone is required to accompany up to five children.
When will advance timed-entry passes be released?
On a rolling basis, up to 30 days prior to the date of visit.
Will the Museum have health checks at the entrance?
The Museum will not be taking temperatures or conducting health checks, however we ask that visitors do not visit the Udvar-Hazy Center if they are sick.
Are visitors permitted to re-enter the Museum if they leave for lunch, or if they need to retrieve an item from their vehicle?
Yes, visitors may enter the Museum twice within the same day, using the same pass.
Do visitors need to leave the Museum at a certain time after entering?
Visitors are welcome to enjoy the Museum at their own pace. The Museum closes daily at 5:30pm, at which time all visitors must leave the building.
Will the Museum provide educational programming or tours for groups that wish to reserve them?
Not currently. We hope to offer onsite reservable programs again in 2021. We do have a variety of digital programming available at airandspace.si.edu/anywhere and we are working to expand our virtual offerings for the upcoming school year.
Are wheelchairs available for visitors to use?
Yes, a limited number of standard and bariatric wheelchairs are available for use while visiting the Museum. Sanitized wheelchairs are provided on a first come, first served basis, and stationed to the right after entering the Udvar-Hazy Center. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own mobility devices.
Are water fountains accessible inside the Museum?
Water fountains are accessible, with reminders on hygiene and social distancing. Two bottle fill stations are also available on the lower level.
Things to Know Before You Go
Add Time to Your Visit: Give yourself ample time to visit the Museum including extra time for entry and parking.
Minimize Carry-Ons: All visitors must pass through security screening upon entry. The fewer carry-on items you bring inside the Museum, the faster your entry (and visitors behind you). Before you visit, please review the list of prohibited items, which include pocket knives and tripods. Visitors carrying prohibited items will not be allowed inside the Museum, so please leave them at home or in your car.
Dress Comfortably: A visit to the Smithsonian usually involves a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes and layers of clothing.
Connect to our WIFI: Connecting to our WI-FI is easy. Just choose SI-VISITOR, open a web browser, and accept the terms of service.
No Food and Drink: Food and drink are not permitted inside the Museum. If you bring food, you must consume it outside. Only bottled water is permitted inside the Museum.
Please Take Photos!: You are welcome to take photos for personal use (and share them on Flickr!). However, the use of tripods, monopods, and selfie sticks is prohibited with the exception of their use by the media or press which requires prior approval. For professionals, please see our photography and filming policy.
Wheelchairs: A limited number of standard and bariatric wheelchairs are available for use while visiting the Museum. Sanitized wheelchairs are provided on a first come, first served basis, and stationed to the right after entering the Udvar-Hazy Center. Visitors are also welcome to bring their own mobility devices. We do not provide strollers or motorized wheelchairs.
Take Care on Ramps and Overlooks: The Udvar-Hazy Center has long ramps and high overlook walkways. Please use care and do not allow children to play on them. Never carry children on your shoulders.
Timed-Entry Pass: All visitors are required to register for a free timed-entry pass. Note that parking is free after 4:00 pm.
Download and Print Maps & Guides: We recommend you print floor plans at home before coming to the Museum.
Ask for Help: Security officers are located throughout the building to protect the Museum, its collections, and most importantly, our visitors. Please feel free to ask them for assistance.
First Aid: First Aid is available. Please contact the nearest security officer or the John L. Plueger Family Welcome Center for assistance.
