The National Museum of the United States Army, located on the publicly accessible area of Fort Belvoir in southern Fairfax County, is the first comprehensive and truly national museum to capture, display and interpret the Army's history by telling stories through the eyes of soldiers. Named one of the "Best New Attractions in 2020" by USA Today, the museum tells over 245 years of military history through immersive multimedia exhibits. For families who love to indulge in American history, this is a must-see on your next family trip to Fairfax.
The museum is free to the public, but general-admission tickets are encouraged to ensure the most enjoyable visitor experience and there is a limit of nine tickets per request.
To help you plan your trip to this incredible attraction, we've compiled a list of 10 of the must-see exhibits and features of Fairfax County’s newest museum, the National Museum of the United States Army.
Army Theater
Back to Top of ListArmy 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
Back to Top of ListExperiential 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
Back to Top of List"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
Back to Top of List"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
Back to Top of List"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
Back to Top of List"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
Back to Top of List"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
Back to Top of List"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
Back to Top of ListArmy 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
Back to Top of ListThe 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.
