National Geographic is opening a massive museum in Dupont Circle
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The Museum of Exploration coming to Dupont Circle. Visualizations: Redvertex, based on designs by Hickok Cole, Inc.
The National Geographic Society just announced plans for a huge new museum at its Dupont Circle campus.
Why it matters: The Museum of Exploration, slated to open in mid-2026, is the biggest expansion in the educational nonprofit's 136-year history, and it will more than quadruple Nat Geo's downtown footprint.
Zoom in: The 100,000-square-foot museum will showcase explorers' expeditions through photos and storytelling, and use augmented reality and immersive experiences to bring those global experiences to life. The reimagined campus at 1145 17th Street NW will also include:
- A renovated 400-seat theater.
- An education center for kids and school groups.
- A new restaurant, Explorers Bar & Grill, and retail store.
- A nighttime courtyard experience with audiovisuals and interactive media.
Between the lines: The museum, designed by Hickok Cole (the firm behind the new International Spy Museum), will prioritize inclusivity and accessibility. Visitors will find braille instructional text, tactile maps, and American Sign Language interpretations of media.
- All exhibitions will feature English and Spanish text, plus Spanish subtitles for experiences and films (plus resources in additional languages).
- For the guest experience, expect all-gender bathrooms, wellness rooms for nursing and low-sensory time, and fridges for medication storage.
The intrigue: Nat Geo spokespeople tell Axios they're still finalizing ticketing policies — no word yet on price or if it'll be free.
The big picture: The Museum of Exploration is part of the global nonprofit's mission to "illuminate and protect the wonder of our world," according to spokespeople, created by its corps of scientists, conservationists, storytellers, and educators.
- Its opening will likely line up with America's 250th anniversary celebrations in 2026, which will be celebrated at museums and institutions throughout Washington.