U.S. Department of the Interior Museum

On the first floor of the Department of the Interior’s headquarters at 1849 C St NW, this small museum introduces the department’s work and history. Its collection includes original paintings by Thomas Moran and photographs by Ansel Adams, alongside exhibits connected to public lands and natural resources. You can also pick up a Parks Passport stamp. It makes a concise stop for museum-goers interested in national parks or the federal department behind many of them; allow time for the required security check before entering.

A museum inside the Interior Department

The museum occupies the first floor of the Stewart Lee Udall Main Interior Building, the department’s headquarters at 1849 C St NW. Its exhibits introduce the Interior Department’s mission and history, with subjects including the nation’s public lands, natural resources and cultural heritage.

Admission is free. The museum is inside a federal building, so visitors need photo ID and must pass through security. Use the C Street entrance and let staff know you are there for the museum.

Art and guided tours

The collection includes original Thomas Moran paintings and Ansel Adams photographs. The building itself also contains art beyond the museum displays. Guided tours can cover artwork in the building, including WPA murals, but they need to be arranged in advance. Call ahead to ask about tour arrangements and any special exhibits.

The museum is compact, so it suits a brief visit. Its location in the department’s headquarters gives the exhibits a direct connection to the agency whose work they explain.