WASHINGTON, D.C. — The National Geographic Museum of Exploration opened to the public on June 26, 2026, in Washington, D.C. The museum, operated by the National Geographic Society, features permanent exhibitions dedicated to exploration, photography, and biodiversity.

Jill Tiefenthaler, CEO of the National Geographic Society, said the organization developed the museum's concept during early 2020. "An organization committed to exploration had some time on our hands during that early time of 2020 and we started to really imagine what this could be," Tiefenthaler said. She described the project as a continuation of the society's work. "[It's] really just a continuation of what we've done since the very beginning," she said. "The idea was always to learn about the world and share it with people."

The museum includes a permanent exhibition showcasing photographs from a century of archives, much of which has not been publicly displayed before. An interactive digital installation presents National Geographic magazine covers, dating from the first issue in 1888 to the present day.

The facility also houses a 270-degree theater known as the "geoverse," which offers rotating shows for students. Another area, named "Explorers Landing," highlights the accomplishments of National Geographic Explorers. Rolex sponsors the "Explorers Landing" space and supported the general creation of the Base Camp.

Tiefenthaler noted the museum features narratives concerning climate and biodiversity loss. "There are so many great stories of both climate and biodiversity loss and calls to action in the museum," she said. She expressed a hope that visitors would be inspired. "I hope that people will be inspired by what we've done, but also walk away and think from the museum... [thinking of] things that they can do in their everyday lives," Tiefenthaler said.

Why It Matters

The opening of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration establishes a new venue for public engagement with the organization's mission. The museum's exhibitions, including previously unseen archival photography and an interactive display of National Geographic magazine covers, provide a historical and contemporary view of exploration and global issues. Its educational components, such as the "geoverse" theater for students, indicate an aim to inform a broad audience about scientific and environmental topics.