We are excited to welcome you to the National Air and Space Museum. Please review our policies designed to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for all visitors.

Security

All visitors will go through a security checkpoint when entering the building. This includes passing through a metal detector-like machine. This may include additional bag inspection. 

Not Allowed

  • Food and drink
  • Selfie sticks, tripods, and monopods
  • Guns*
  • Knives including pen knives
  • Weapons or explosives*
  • Scissors
  • Tools
  • Placards, signs, or banners
  • Aerosol cans
  • Pets

* No visitor may carry firearms, other dangerous or deadly weapons, or explosives, either openly or concealed on the premises. The prohibition on firearms applies to all visitors, including those with firearm permits.

Allowed

  • Bottled water
  • Cameras
  • Mobility aids (canes, walkers, wheelchairs, etc.)
  • Strollers
  • Service animals*

*Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals are not considered service animals.

A grey spacecraft stands like a crab on four legs with a large "body" on a floor simulating the floor of Mars. Behind it is an image of Mars, and two capsules used for human spaceflight.

Required

Free Timed-Entry Passes

Free timed-entry passes are currently required for all visitors, regardless of age.

  • One person can reserve up to nine passes. (Groups of 10 or more should reserve Group Passes).
  • Members receive special access to a members-only pool of passes. Join today!
  • Visitors may enter the Museum anytime that day, starting at the time on their entry pass.
  • Free timed-entry passes do not limit the amount of time you can spend in the Museum. However, once you exit, you cannot re-enter without securing a separate timed-entry pass. 

Reserve Free Passes

For more information, including the schedule for releasing passes, visit our Frequently Asked Questions. 

Photography & Filming Policies

Personal Photography

Personal photography on your cell phone or camera is allowed.  

You cannot use selfie sticks, tripods, or monopods.

Commercial Photography & Filming

Commercial photography and filming must be approved by the Museum. Please contact the Communications Office. 

For the Media

Working members of the media must obtain permission from the Communications Office and must be escorted by a Museum staff member while in the building.

Other Professional Photography

For other professional photography, please contact the Communications Office. 

Other Filming Requests

Filmmakers interested in filming at the Smithsonian need to complete the online “Application for Filming at the Smithsonian Institution.”

No Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in all Smithsonian facilities. This includes e-cigarettes and vaping.