National Postal Museum Kids Edition: Top Tips for a Family-Friendly Visit

Washington, D.C. is known for its impressive lineup of museums, many of which are located on or near the National Mall. But if you venture just a bit off the beaten path, you’ll discover one of my absolute favorite hidden gems: the Smithsonian National Postal Museum.

This museum offers a hands-on, kid-friendly experience that your family will remember long after your visit. Read on for everything you need to know to plan your postal museum kids adventure.

Not only does the Smithsonian National Postal Museum provide a look into the history and innovation behind mail delivery, but it also features interactive exhibits designed specifically with kids in mind. From designing your own stamp to pretending to sort mail, my kids loved this museum and still talk about it today. Plus, museum entrance is free!

Why the National Postal Museum Is Perfect for Families

The National Postal Museum is an underrated gem in D.C. Many families overlook it because it’s not located on the National Mall, but this just means it’s less crowded and more relaxed—a huge plus if you’re exploring with little ones. Here are some of the highlights my kids absolutely loved:

Write Your Own Postcard

Kids can write their very own postcard at the National Postal Museum. This hands-on activity allows children to express themselves while learning about the art of correspondence.

It’s the perfect souvenir to remember the day and an opportunity to practice writing skills. Tip: After writing your postcard, head down to the basement level to the working post office. There, you can purchase a stamp and mail your postcard directly to friends or family for a special surprise!

Pretend to Drive a Semi-Truck

Little ones can step into the shoes of a postal worker with the museum’s engaging mail sorting activity. Here, children learn how letters and packages are organized and processed before reaching their final destination. They’ll have a chance to sort mail into different mailboxes based on addresses, making it a fun and educational experience.

This hands-on activity helps kids develop number recognition skills while sharing about the systems behind mail delivery. My 5 year old stayed at this activity station for a full 20 minutes!

Design Your Own Stamp

Creating a personalized stamp is a unique, fun activity. Kids can use their imagination to design a stamp that reflects their personality, interests, or even add a picture of their own face to the stamp.

The activity includes templates and a variety of artistic tools, so children can experiment with colors, patterns, and themes. After you’re done, email a copy of your stamp to yourself.

Take Home Stamps

One of the most unique keepsakes from the National Postal Museum is the opportunity to take home real stamps. The museum provides containers filled with used stamps of all designs, giving kids and adults alike the chance to sift through and find their favorites.

Each visitor can select three stamps to take home, a sweet souvenir to remember your visit. This activity also serves as a mini geography lesson, as kids might discover stamps featuring landmarks, wildlife, or cultural icons from various places.

Scavenger Hunt

To keep kids engaged during their visit, stop by the front desk to pick up a scavenger hunt tailored for young explorers. The hunt encourages children to search for specific items throughout the museum.

The scavenger hunt items are located throughout the museum which encourages you to explore the most kid friendly areas. This activity is perfect for families with little ones who appreciate a challenge, I know I love checking off boxes.

Getting to the National Postal Museum

The National Postal Museum is conveniently located near Union Station, making it one of the easiest museums to reach via public transportation.

• By Metro: Take the Red Line to Union Station. From there, it’s just a short walk across the street to the museum.
• By Car: While driving in D.C. can be tricky, there are parking garages available at Union Station. However, Metro is often the easiest and most stress-free option. I highly recommend taking the metro.
• By Bike or Scooter: If you’re staying nearby, consider biking or using a scooter to get there. There are bike racks available near the museum.

What to See and Do Nearby

If you have extra time, there are plenty of attractions near the National Postal Museum to explore:

1. Union Station: Just across the street, Union Station isn’t just a transit hub—it’s also home to several kid-friendly restaurants and quick dining options. Grab a bite at Shake Shack or Pret A Manger before or after your museum visit.
2. Capitol Hill: A short walk or Metro ride away, you can explore the Capitol Building and the Library of Congress. Both offer family-friendly tours that are educational and inspiring.
3. National Mall: If you’re up for it, head back to the National Mall to visit other Smithsonian museums, such as the National Museum of Natural History or the National Museum of the American Indian.

Tips for Visiting the National Postal Museum with Kids

1. Start with the Kid-Friendly Activities: Head straight for the hands-on exhibits like the mail truck simulator, stamp design station, and postcard writing area. These are surefire hits with young visitors.
2. Pick Up the Scavenger Hunt: This free activity from the front desk is a fantastic way to keep kids engaged as they explore the museum.
3. Plan for Lunch at Union Station: Avoid the hassle of packing food by enjoying one of the many quick dining options at Union Station, located just across the street.
4. Allow Plenty of Time: While the museum isn’t huge like some of the other Smithsonian museums, the interactive exhibits can keep kids entertained for hours. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy the experience.

What Makes This Museum Unique?

Unlike some of the larger Smithsonian museums, the National Postal Museum feels intimate and approachable, which is perfect for families. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, blending history with hands-on activities. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the innovation and determination behind the mail system.

Educational Takeaways for Kids

In addition to being fun, the museum offers plenty of learning opportunities for kids:

• History of Mail Delivery: Kids can learn how mail was transported via stagecoach, trains, planes, and even by Pony Express.
• The Importance of Stamps: Through interactive exhibits, children can explore the art and function of stamps in the postal system.
• Global Connections: Exhibits highlight how mail connects people across the world, fostering an understanding of global communication.

Practical Information for Families

• Hours: The Smithsonian National Postal Museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on December 25).
• Tickets: Admission is free and timed tickets are not required.
• Facilities: The museum is stroller-friendly, and there are family restrooms available.
• Address: 2 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

Cultural Connection Questions for Kids

At Full Passport Family, we believe travel is about more than just seeing the sights—it’s a chance to foster deeper connections, spark curiosity, and create opportunities for lifelong learning. These questions are designed to help families go beyond surface-level experiences, encouraging thoughtful conversations that build empathy, understanding, and a genuine appreciation for the places and people you encounter. 

Unlike many travel blogs that focus solely on logistics, we’re here to help you and your children engage meaningfully with the world, raising resilient, compassionate global citizens along the way. Use these below questions throughout your visit to the National Postal Museum to reflect, learn, and connect as a family.

1. What do you think makes stamps from different countries special?
   • Stamps often show pictures of animals, famous people, or special places from a country. Can you think of something from where you live that could be on a stamp?
2. If you were a mail carrier, what kind of vehicle would you want to deliver the mail in?
   • Think about all the ways mail gets delivered. Would you pick a truck, a boat, an airplane, or maybe even a horse? Why?
3. Why do you think it’s important to have a postal system?
   • Imagine if you couldn’t send letters or packages. What would be harder to do without a postal system?
4. What’s the most interesting thing you’ve ever seen in the mail?
   • Some people send really cool things in the mail, like handmade gifts or even fun postcards. Have you ever gotten something surprising?
5. After our visit today, we learned all the work that goes into delivering mail. How might we show our appreciation for our postal workers?
   • Brainstorm ways to show gratitude to your local postal workers, maybe writing a thank you note, designing a window sign, or leaving treats for them around the holidays.

Have you visited the National Postal Museum? Share your favorite activities in the comments below!