The National Academy of Sciences Building at 2101 Constitution Ave. NW is a historic workplace for scientists and a venue for conferences, with art and science details inside and out. When public access is available, visitors can see the Great Hall, galleries with climate science art by Xavier Cortada, and the outdoor Albert Einstein memorial. The building is currently closed to the public until further notice; entry is limited to people with an appointment or registered for an event or meeting. Check for a public tour before planning a visit.
Public access and tours
The National Academy of Sciences Building is a working space where professionals meet and conferences take place. It is not a public museum with unrestricted entry. The building has been closed to the public until further notice. People with an appointment or registered for an event or meeting can enter through the C Street entrance.
Public tours have been announced on selected weekdays. Check the Academy’s event information for current access arrangements before setting out, since the building’s general workday hours do not indicate that it is open to casual visitors.
Art, architecture and the Einstein memorial
When visitors can enter, the first floor and mezzanine include the Great Hall and art galleries. The galleries have featured climate science art by Xavier Cortada. The interior also has mosaics, paintings and sculptures, with ornate details across the building’s walls, halls and ceilings.
Outside, a statue of Albert Einstein is set in a small garden. The building’s copper cornice has animal figures, including lynxes, an owl and a snake. The Lincoln Memorial is a short walk away, making the Academy a possible addition to a nearby visit when access is available.
FAQ
Is the National Academy of Sciences Building open to the public?
It is closed to the public until further notice. People with an appointment or registered for an event or meeting can enter through the C Street entrance.
Can I take a tour of the building?
Public tours have been held on selected weekdays. Check the Academy’s event information for current tour dates and access details.
What can I see inside the building?
When public access is available, visitors can see the Great Hall and galleries, including climate science art by Xavier Cortada.
Is there an outdoor memorial at the National Academy of Sciences?
Yes. An Albert Einstein memorial is outside the building.
