Summary
The Newseum in Washington, DC is a high-tech, interactive museum that promotes, explains, and defends free expression. Focusing on the five freedoms of the First Amendment—religion, speech, press, assembly, and petitions—the museum boasts seven levels of engaging exhibits, featuring 15 galleries and 15 theaters.
Know Before You Go
This museum encourages visitors to start from the top level and descend. With seven levels to explore, guests should allow at least 4 hours to delve into each one. Some exhibits may not be suitable for young children; hence, the museum is better suited for those aged 12 and above.
Galleries and Exhibits
The Newseum continually updates its exhibits. Here are some of the most beloved displays currently featured:
- 1967: Civil Rights at 50 highlights the intense activism for racial justice in 1967.
- Cox First Amendment Gallery explores freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition through diverse media.
- 1776 – Breaking News: Independence presents one of only 19 known copies of the first newspaper publishing the Declaration of Independence, showcasing it as front-page news.
- First Dogs: American Presidents and Their Pets shares stories and visuals of notable dogs residing at the nation’s esteemed address.
- Today’s Front Pages features 80 enlarged newspaper front pages from around the world, updated daily from thousands of submissions.
- Pulitzer Prize Photographs Gallery is home to an extensive collection of Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalism, complete with a documentary film and access to an electronic database.
- 9/11 Gallery examines media reactions to a monumental news event, featuring artifacts and journalists’ accounts from that day.
- Berlin Wall Exhibit showcases original sections of the Berlin Wall and investigates the media’s role during its historical timeline.
- Journalists Memorial honors journalists who lost their lives reporting the news, with names etched in a striking glass and steel structure.
- Great Books Gallery includes remarkable texts from influential thinkers on free speech and freedom.
- The Interactive Newsroom lets visitors take on various media roles at 48 engaging kiosks.
- Make Some Noise focuses on student leaders of the civil rights movement who advocated for First Amendment rights.
- Ethics Center tests visitor news judgment and decision-making under time constraints.
- Greenspun Family Terrace provides stunning views of the U.S. Capitol and notable sites along Pennsylvania Avenue, detailing pivotal news events.
Theaters
The Newseum features 15 theaters offering a variety of viewing experiences, including public programs, film screenings, debates, and performances. Visitors can observe technicians in the Broadcast Control Center managing daily operations of the museum.
Visiting the Newseum
Located at 555 Pennsylvania Ave. NW in Washington, DC, the Newseum sits between the White House and U.S. Capitol, and is near the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall.
The easiest way to reach the Newseum is via Metro, with two nearby stations: Archives/Navy Memorial/Penn Quarter, served by the Green and Yellow Lines, and Judiciary Square, served by the Red Line.
Additionally, biking is a great alternative. Capital Bikeshare offers over 1,600 bicycles at 175 locations across the DC area, including Arlington, VA, and Alexandria, VA. The nearest docking stations are located at 6th and Indiana Ave. NW, 10th and Constitution Ave. NW, 4th and D Streets NW, and Maryland and Independence Ave. SW.
Make sure to confirm hours of operation by calling ahead or checking the website.
Admission Rates
Admission rates for the Newseum can vary, so it’s best to check their website for the latest pricing. Tickets can also offer potential savings when arranged in advance, or they can be purchased at the admissions desk. Museum member visits are complimentary, with added discounts for guest entry.
Food and Shopping
Diverse dining options at the Newseum include a food court and the fine-dining restaurant, The Source by Wolfgang Puck. Additionally, four gift shops sell news-related items and gifts.
