With seven levels, 15 galleries and 15 theaters, the Newseum is considered one of the world’s most interactive museums – it’s a news museum!

The mission of the Newseum, located in Washington, D.C., is “to increase the public’s understanding of the importance of a free press and the First Amendment” (Newseum.org).

Sadly, the Newseum announced earlier this year that it would be closing on December 31, 2019, due to financial challenges.

Back in 2008, I had planned my vacation around the spring opening of the Newseum at its new home on Pennsylvania Avenue (it was moving from Arlington, Virginia). Well, it turned out I got the dates mixed up! I went to D.C. during the last week of March, but the Newseum wasn’t scheduled to open until April 11, 2008!

March 2008
I didn’t really feel like smiling here (March 2008)

It was a huge letdown for me, but I finally got the chance to visit the Newseum in May 2017 – it did not disappoint!

May 2017

I spent about two hours inside and saw many fascinating exhibits, such as:

Lady Gaga’s famous meat dress

You can see the Capitol from the Hank Greenspun Terrace
9/11 Gallery

The good news is that this closure could be temporary. They’re looking for a new home, so maybe they will re-open one day in another location!

In the meantime, if you’re in the area, be sure to go to the Newseum before it closes on December 31, 2019. It’s a must-see attraction in Washington, D.C.!

For more information:

The Bill of Rights – Amendment I (National Archives)

National Archives (March 2008)

Newseum – Hours, Admission, Printable Visitors Guides in 9 languages, and more

Find many U.S. cities’ newspapers in the Newseum’s popular exhibit: Today’s Front Pages

Have you been to the Newseum? Tell me about your visit in the comments below!