10+ Must-See Experiences at the National Museum of the U.S. Army

In honor of the Army’s 250th Birthday and America’s 250th Anniversary, the National Museum of the United States Army's brand new exhibit, CALL TO Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War, features more than 285 rare artifacts from England, France, Canada, and the original 13 colonies and more than 5,000 sq. ft. of stories. Highlights include a pair of George Washington's pistols, the original flag of the 1st Rhode Island Regiment, and the only known complete Loyalist uniform. The exhibit will only be open through 2027, so be sure to catch it while you can.

Army Theater

The Army Theater’s film, “Of Noble Deeds,” explores what it means to truly be an American Soldier. It includes footage of Soldiers and current Army operations along with re-creations of some of the Army’s most significant battles – broadcast on a 300-degree screen with external sensory elements.
Don’t miss: “Of Noble Deeds” is shown multiple times a day and does not require an additional ticket.

Experiential Learning Center

The Experiential Learning Center (ELC) offers a unique and immersive learning space where visitors of all ages can develop skills and have fun with Geography, Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (G-STEM).
Don’t miss: In the Training Center, there are five learning stations where you simulate the work of Army Soldiers, from engineering bridge building to aerial vehicle operations. And in the Action Center, transport yourself into Army experiences through a series of virtual reality simulations.

"Founding the Nation" Gallery

The "Founding the Nation" Gallery covers the Army’s history from the colonial period through the War of 1812. Visitors explore the origins and formation of the Continental Army, its role in the Revolutionary War, and the Army’s development as a professional force.
Don’t miss: The 6-pounder gun was one of the most popular light field pieces in the Revolutionary War and was mounted on a wooden carriage pulled by horses or oxen.

"Preserving the Nation" Gallery

The "Preserving the Nation" Gallery gives visitors an understanding of the Army’s part in the defining American event of the 19th century, the Civil War. This gallery also documents the Army’s role in westward expansion, including the Lewis and Clark expedition, the Indian Wars and the Mexican War.
Don’t miss: The 12 Pounder Cannon, dubbed the “Napoleon,” was able to fire to a range of 1,700 yards and was a popular weapon for the Union light artillery.

"Nation Overseas" Gallery

The "Nation Overseas" Gallery explores the Army’s first venture onto the world stage, from operations in China to the Spanish-American War, and along the Mexican-American border. The remainder of the exhibit focuses on the Army’s role in World War I and the changing face of warfare.
Don’t miss: Visualize trench warfare in the WWI Immersion Space, where cast figures, lighting effects, imagery, the sounds of distant battle, and the FT-17 Renault “Five of Hearts” Tank draw you in.

"Global War" Gallery

The "Global War" Gallery portrays the Army’s role in World War II, from both the European and Pacific Theaters, the technology of the conflict, and the development of the atomic bomb.
Don’t miss: The Higgins assault boat (or a Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel (LCVP)), is one of six remaining that are confirmed to have landed at Normandy on D-Day. Plus, the M4 Sherman “Cobra King” Tank, the iconic American tank of WWII and the first to break through enemy lines at the pivotal Battle of the Bulge.

"Cold War" Gallery

The "Cold War" Gallery recounts a time when the United States faced numerous global challenges. American Soldiers manned a defensive line in Europe that deterred a potential attack, while on the other side of the world, the Army fought wars in Korea and Vietnam.
Don’t miss: Suspended from the gallery’s ceiling is the iconic UH-1B “Huey” Helicopter, which arrived in Vietnam in 1962 as aerial ambulances.

"Changing World" Gallery

The "Changing World" Gallery chronicles one of the most dynamic and global periods in U.S. Army history, from the fall of the Soviet Union through our nation’s most current conflicts. The Global War on Terror portion follows the progression of operation in both Afghanistan and Iraq.
Don’t miss: The M3 Bradley Cavalry Fighting Vehicle was the lead vehicle in the 2003 charge from Kuwait to Baghdad and was essential to gaining control of several key positions before the advance into the city.

Army and Society Gallery

Consisting of five major and distinctly themed areas, The Army and Society Gallery examines the relationship between the Army and the American people. It is here that visitors discover the Army’s role in shaping the national character.
Don’t miss: Key exhibits, such as the Wright Flyer and the AN/FPN-40 Radar set, illustrate the Army’s contribution in driving the development of critical technologies, some of which are reflected in our daily lives today.

The Medal of Honor Experience

The Medal of Honor Experience invites visitors to explore the history of the Medal of Honor and learn about the award recommendation process and hierarchy of Army awards that recognize heroic actions.
Don’t miss: The adjacent outdoor Medal of Honor Garden, which identifies and honors Army recipients of the nation’s highest award for valor – a peaceful space allowing visitors the opportunity to reflect on the values exemplified by the medal’s recipients.