The DAR Museum is a decorative arts museum. It collects furnishings, ceramics, glass, textiles, and household items that were made and used in America through the early 20th century. You will see 31 period rooms (each arranged to look like a different time and place in American history), a main gallery with an exhibit that changes annually, and a study gallery where you can get close to the museum objects. Explore the American Home! Each of these 31 period rooms looks like you’re stepping into a room from the past. You can peek into an 1810s bedroom, 1820s dining room, 1860s parlor, and many more.
You may explore the museum at your own pace any time during open hours. Paper maps and downloadable audio tours are available through the SmArtify App. Volunteer docents are often available to provide guided tours to walk-in guests.
If there is a volunteer docent on duty, they will be stationed in the lobby outside the main gallery to give tours to walk-in visitors. GROUPS of 1-9 people or less do not need to make advanced reservations.
For GROUPS OF 10 OR MORE, please contact the museum at [email protected] to schedule ahead. Groups of 10 or more have the option to schedule a self-guided tour free of charge during museum hours or a docent-led tour for $5 per person (free of charge for student groups) Monday-Friday, between 10am and 2pm.
In the email, please include the following:
- Contact person:
- Contact email:
- Contact phone:
- Group name:
- Group type: (adult, child, teen, educational, senior, etc.)
- Group size:
- Requested tour date:
- Requested tour time:
- Tour Type: Self-guided or docent led
With the assistance of a security staff person, the DAR Museum is accessible by wheelchairs and other mobility devices. The accessible entrance is on C Street. Please call the front desk at 202-879-3220 for further instructions on access.
Virtual Programs
The museum offers regular virtual programs. These are free to attend can be found on our Calendar of Events.
Take an Audio Tour on Smartify |
Explore the rooms at your own pace Pictures and descriptions of all 31 rooms put you in control of your experience |