Best History Museum in Ashburn

"The Smithsonian American Art Museum shares space with the National Portrait Gallery in a historic Greek Revival building that is one of the oldest public buildings in Washington, D.C. The American Art Museum is home to one of the largest and most inclusive collections of American art in the world. More than 7,000 artists are represented in the collection, including major masters such as John Singleton Copley, Gilbert Stuart, Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, Childe Hassam, Mary Cassatt, Georgia O’Keeffe, Edward Hopper, Joseph Cornell, Jacob Lawrence, Helen Frankenthaler, Christo and Jeanne-Claude, David Hockney, Jenny Holzer, Lee Friedlander, Roy Lichtenstein, Nam June Paik, Irving Penn, Martin Puryear, Robert Rauschenberg and Bill Viola. Be sure to visit the National Portrait Gallery and see the only complete collection of presidential portraits outside of the White House."

"Up close with Barack, Michelle, and presidential families past The National Portrait Gallery made headlines recently when it unveiled the colorful official portraits for former President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama. The walls are lined with paintings of all the presidents, along with images of American history from sports figures to revolutionaries. Beginning in May, the National Portrait Gallery will celebrate its 50th anniversary with photos of 50-year-old celebrities."

"Washington’s hottest destination since it opened in 2016, this exhilarating blend of history and entertainment is an almost overwhelming experience that can easily take an entire day. The museum and its crowds may be too much for young children, but will surely interest those age 10 and older. A visit begins with three underground levels that tell the dramatic story of American slavery and show how much of our country’s growth was fueled by African American labor."

"The National Museum of African American History & Culture is the newest addition to Smithsonian’s lineup. Its exhibitions tell the history of African Americans, from hardships in slavery to current culture and political issues. It’s a beautifully-curated museum, and definitely worth the visit for anyone interested in what’s on display."

"The museum is a memorial to the millions of Jews who died during the Nazi regime in Germany during World War II. The exhibits tell the horrific story of genocide and teach the dangers of hatred and prejudice. Visiting this museum is an emotional experience so be sure that you have enough time and stamina. The permanent exhibits are not recommended for children under 11 years old."

"Try to visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum during the week as the crowds can be overwhelming and really distract from the impact of the experience. You will need to reserve tickets in advance as entrance is limited. Even so, the crowds can be intense — they really need to limit attendance even more to all everyone to fully engage in the museum."

"This museum hosts permanent and special exhibits about the horrific events of the Holocaust. There is no entry fee, although timed tickets are required March 1 to Aug. 31. If advance tickets aren't available, visitors can try for same-day tickets online or in person."

"The Octagon House is located in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, DC. In 1898, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) established The Octagon as its national headquarters. In the 1970s, The Octagon was opened to the public as a museum."

"In Foggy Bottom, you can find this architecture and design museum. The house was built between 1798 and 1800 by the architect of the U.S. Capitol, Dr. William Thornton."

"Your children can create their own stamp using their very own design that they create. They are able to write and mail a handwritten letter (an art that is slowly dying), sit in the cab of a real mail truck, and sort packages like a real postal worker would. They even have the chance to sit in a stagecoach, like one of the real ones used when the postal system was first established."

"The National Postal Museum is conveniently located near the Union Station in DC. The National Postal Museum displays the history of the US Postal Service as well as history of postal service from around the world. It is a very popular museum for families as the museum has worked to integrate interactive exhibits for children."

"daily, closed December 25.Location:2 Massachusetts Avenue NE. Are you a stamp collector?. Then don’t miss out on the amazing stamp collection and the opportunity to learn about the history of the American mail service at the National Postal Museum."

"If you get lucky and you visit on a Sunday, see if there are any special guided tours at Ford’s Theater. If not, you can also see about taking in a show at this legendary theater, the place where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. I would also highly recommend getting tickets in advance for a Ranger Talk at the site, which are available from 9:30 to 4:00 pm at select times. Advance tickets are required for busy times and plan to arrive about 10 minutes prior to your tour time."

"This venue at 551 10th street had been open for less than two years when it was the scene of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination by actor John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865. Lincoln had been attending a production of Our American Cousin when he was shot in the head in the presidential box by Booth at close range. He was then lifted across the street to the Petersen House, also now part of the Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site, where he died the following morning."

"One of the most popular leaders and 16th U.S President Abraham Lincoln got a place at Ford’s Theatre. The museum portraits his final few hours and recreates the American Civil War with artifacts of the past. You will get a chance to learn about his assassination, conspiracy, and investigation details via stories, theater shows, and digital resources on the virtual video tour."

"Source: Photo by Flickr user Tim Evanson used under CC BY-SA 2.0. A prime retail spot in the heart of Chinatown, Gallery Place offers many shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Boasting a 14-screen movie theater and a bowling alley within the mall, Gallery Place is located very conveniently within DC next to Capitol One Arena where a variety of sporting and concert events are held."

"Located in the heart of Washington DC’s vibrant Chinatown, (adjacent to Capital One Arena), Gallery Place offers everything you need from a central shopping precinct. You can browse all manner of home electronics at the exciting Studio Xfinity store.. When it comes to entertainment you can catch a movie at Regal 14 (14 screens to choose from)."

"Take the Metro to the Chinatown/Gallery Place Metro station. Penn Quarter is a revitalized historic neighborhood that has become one of Washington DC's hottest destinations for dining and entertainment with a wide variety of restaurants, ranging from fine dining to family-friendly eateries."

"Located across the Potomac River in Arlington, Crystal City Shops offers an inviting one-stop destination for shopping, dining and socializing. You can access Crystal City by car or cab (5 minutes from downtown DC), Metro or the VHE and there is plenty of on-site parking. If you would like to linger in the area you will find no less than 12 hotels within easy walking distance."

"Eat Lunch at Eastern Market or Barracks Row Walk east to Eastern Market, which is especially lively on weekends as part of the street is shut down for vendors to sell crafts and food. Enjoy some fast casual food or walk a few blocks farther to 8th Street SE (Barracks Row) where you will find a wide range of great restaurants. After lunch, take the metro to the Smithsonian Metro Station to visit the National Mall."

"According to the Courthaus Social website, the beer garden is “currently the most spacious outdoor patio in Arlington.” And while we’re not taking out any measuring sticks, it’s safe to say this patio definitely has plenty of space — and drink options. The rotating tap list has two dozen beers. Cocktails include frozen margaritas, an orange blossom Old Fashioned, and Maker’s Mark mules."

"Beer garden-esque seating with long tables and benches, German beers on the menu, two-liter boot glasses, and the biggest schnitzel in town!. With more than 30 beers on tap, spotlighting beers from local breweries, what better place to play trivia and enjoy a brew?. Address:2300 Clarendon Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201"