National Building Museum

I have been spending WAY too much time on Alison's blog and need to update you on some DC gems.  Friday, Alison and I took the Metro to Judiciary Square to visit the National Building Museum, which is free until June 27th, when they start charging to view the exhibits.  What the heck is the National Building Museum for, you ask?  It is a museum celebrating buildings, art in buildings, architecture, and the act of building itself.

I have to admit, the museum and I got off to a rough start, but by the time we left 3.5 hours later, I was a huge fan.  My favorite room is the Great Hall (which will still be free to view after the end of the month) and it's amazing.

NBM Great Hall

Allie thought it was "great" too!

I paid $5 to see the traveling lego exhibit, where builders have created replicas of famous buildings from across the world.  Given that I've seen more lego creativity in my brother-in-law's basement, I was a bit disappointed by it.  The other exhibits are more interesting: DC buildings and memorials history, World's Fair architecture, an artist famous for her mosaics and painting in famous cathedrals, including the National Cathedral.  They also have a cute cafe with the best cookies ever.

Lego Exhibit

 However, the real reason this museum is great are the kids' activities.  The Great Hall is almost completely open, carpeted, and invites kids of all ages to stretch their legs and run around.  They set out legos and blocks for anyone to come off the street and play with.  Alison and I spent the majority of our visit just playing on the floor beneath the grandeur that is the Great Hall.  There is a Building Zone for kids 2 and up and I noticed they offer a lot of fun activities including nights at the museum with a building theme.

Legos!

I'm glad they're only charging to view the exhibits.  I'll be back just to play on the floor!