All person & artist museums to visit in Washington D.C.

Explore the lives and works of notable individuals at 24 museums in Washington D.C. dedicated to specific persons and artists. These museums offer a deep dive into their contributions and legacy.

Are you curious about the lives of remarkable individuals? Here are the top person and artist museums in Washington D.C.:

  1. National Museum of American History1

    National Museum of American History

     Washington D.C., DC
    The National Museum of American History, managed by the Smithsonian Institution, is situated in Washington D.C., on the National Mall. The museum was initially opened in 1964 under the name Museum of History and Technology, but it adopted its current name in 1980.
  2. National Museum of African American History and Culture2

    National Museum of African American History and Culture

     Washington D.C., DC
    The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) is a part of the Smithsonian Institution and is located on the National Mall in Washington. The museum was officially established in 2003, initially existing as an online platform. The physical construction of the museum began in 2012 and it was officially opened to the public on September 24, 2016.
  3. White House3

    White House

     Washington D.C., DC
    The White House, located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, 20500 Washington D.C., serves as the official residence and workplace of the current President of the United States. This iconic building is a significant part of the nation's history and political landscape, making it a point of interest for tourists visiting Washington D.C.
  4. Ford's Theatre4

    Ford's Theatre

     Washington D.C., DC
    Ford's Theatre is also known as the site of the assassination of U.S. President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865. This significant event in American history is commemorated at the theatre, making it a place of great historical importance. Visitors can learn about this event and its impact on the nation through various exhibits and displays.
  5. Folger Shakespeare Library & Theatre5

    Folger Shakespeare Library & Theatre

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Folger Shakespeare Library, nestled in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Washington, is an independent library that boasts one of the largest collections of printed works by William Shakespeare. It also serves as a major repository of rare materials from the modern era, spanning from 1500 to 1750. This makes it a significant destination for those interested in literature, history, and the works of Shakespeare.
  6. International Spy Museum6

    International Spy Museum

     Washington D.C., DC
    The International Spy Museum is a unique institution that offers a deep dive into the world of espionage. As an independent non-profit history museum, it documents the tradecraft, history, and contemporary role of espionage. Visitors can explore the largest collection of international espionage artifacts on public display, providing a comprehensive understanding of the covert world of spying.
  7. President Lincoln's Cottage7

    President Lincoln's Cottage

     Washington D.C., DC
    President Lincoln's Cottage, also known as Soldiers’ Home National Monument, is a national monument situated near Brookland in Washington, D.C. This historic site was formerly known as Anderson Cottage. It served as a seasonal residence for President Abraham Lincoln and his family, as well as for other presidents like James Buchanan, Rutherford B. Hayes, and Chester A. Arthur. The Cottage offers a unique glimpse into the life and times of these notable figures.
  8. National Portrait Gallery8

    National Portrait Gallery

     Washington D.C., DC
    The National Portrait Gallery, located in Washington D.C., is an art gallery managed by the Smithsonian Institute. It is a significant cultural institution that houses a collection focused on images of famous American figures. The gallery provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history and culture of the United States through the portraits of its notable personalities.
  9. Frederick Douglass National Historic Site9

    Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is situated at 1411 W Street, SE, in the neighborhood of Anacostia, to the east of the Anacostia River in Southeast Washington, D.C., United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the life and legacy of one of the most prominent African Americans of the 19th century, Frederick Douglass.
  10. Woodrow Wilson House10

    Woodrow Wilson House

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Woodrow Wilson House, located at 2340 S Street NW just off Washington, D.C.'s Embassy Row, served as the residence of the 28th president of the United States, Woodrow Wilson, after he left office. This historic house provides a glimpse into the life of the former president after his tenure.
  11. Mary Mcleod Bethune Council House11

    Mary Mcleod Bethune Council House

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site is situated in the Northwest region of Washington, D.C., specifically at 1318 Vermont Avenue NW. This historic site is a part of the Logan Circle Historic District, a well-known area in the city. The location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other notable sites, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the district.
  12. Lincoln Memorial12

    Lincoln Memorial

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Lincoln Memorial is a monument dedicated to the American President Abraham Lincoln. It is situated in the extension of the National Mall in Washington. This location makes it a central point of interest for tourists visiting the city, as it is easily accessible and surrounded by other significant landmarks.
  13. Petersen House13

    Petersen House

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Petersen House, a 19th-century federal style row house, is located at 516 10th Street NW in Washington, D.C. This historic site is situated several blocks east of the White House, making it easily accessible for tourists visiting the capital.
  14. Washington Monument14

    Washington Monument

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Washington Monument, erected in honor of the first American president George Washington, is the tallest obelisk ever built, standing at over 169 meters tall. It was designed by Robert Mills and is made of marble, granite, and sandstone. This monument is a significant part of American history and a testament to the country's architectural prowess.
  15. National Museum of Women In the Arts15

    National Museum of Women In the Arts

     Washington D.C., DC
    The National Museum of Women in the Arts, located in Washington, is recognized as one of the larger art museums in the United States. It holds the unique distinction of being the largest museum in the world that is dedicated solely to collecting and showcasing artworks created by women.
  16. Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens16

    Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens

     Washington D.C., DC
    Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, located in Washington, DC, USA, is a decorative arts museum that was once the residence of Marjorie Merriweather Post, a renowned businesswoman, socialite, philanthropist, and collector. The estate offers a unique glimpse into the life and interests of its former owner, showcasing her passion for decorative arts and her exquisite taste.
  17. Sewall-belmont House and Museum17

    Sewall-belmont House and Museum

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument is a significant landmark in the United States, located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Washington, D.C. This monument was officially designated by President Barack Obama through a Presidential Proclamation on April 12, 2016. It serves as a reminder of the struggle for women's suffrage and equality.
  18. Pope John Paul Ii National Shrine18

    Pope John Paul Ii National Shrine

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Saint John Paul II National Shrine houses a permanent exhibit titled 'A Gift of Love: the Life of Saint John Paul II'. This exhibit provides an in-depth look into the life and legacy of Saint John Paul II. The shrine is also home to the Redemptor Hominis Church and the Luminous Mysteries Chapel. Both of these spaces are adorned with beautiful mosaic art designed by Rev. Marko Rupnik, S.J.
  19. National Archives Museum19

    National Archives Museum

     Washington D.C., DC
    The National Archives Building, informally known as Archives I, serves as the headquarters for the National Archives and Records Administration. This significant location is situated north of the National Mall, at 700 Pennsylvania Avenue, Northwest, Washington. It is a key site for those interested in the history and governance of the United States.
  20. Decatur House20

    Decatur House

     Washington D.C., DC
    Decatur House, located at 748 Jackson Place in Washington, D.C., is a historic house museum. It is named after its first owner and occupant, naval officer Stephen Decatur. This location offers a unique glimpse into the history of the United States, particularly the early 19th century.
  21. The L. Ron Hubbard House21

    The L. Ron Hubbard House

     Washington D.C., DC
    The L. Ron Hubbard House, also known as the Original Founding Church of Scientology, is a writer's house museum and former Scientology church. It is located at 1812 19th Street NW in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C., United States. This historic building offers a unique insight into the life and work of L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology.
  22. Chinese American Museum22

    Chinese American Museum

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Chinese American Museum DC, also known as CAMDC, is a cultural institution located in Downtown Washington, DC. It was established through the combined efforts of The Chinese American Museum Foundation, private benefactors, and the general public. The museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and culture of Chinese Americans.
  23. Heurich House Museum23

    Heurich House Museum

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Heurich House Museum, also known as the Christian Heurich Mansion or Brewmaster's Castle, is a Gilded Age mansion located in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington D.C. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing the opulence of the Gilded Age through its preserved architecture and original furnishings.
  24. The Clara Barton Missing Soldiers Office Museum24

    The Clara Barton Missing Soldiers Office Museum

     Washington D.C., DC