Visiting Tips & FAQs

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.

 A visit to the Smithsonian usually involves a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes and layers of clothing.

 Connecting to our WI-FI is easy. Just choose SI-VISITOR, open a web browser, and accept the terms of service.

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.

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.

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.

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.

We recommend you print floor plans at home before coming to the Museum.

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 is available. Please contact the nearest security officer or the John L. Plueger Family Welcome Center for assistance.