The National Geographic Museum Of Exploration Celebrates Opening Day With A Washington, D.C. Yellow Border Takeover
Yellow Borders – Nat Geo’s Iconic Symbol for More Than a Century – Pop Up at Key Locations Around the City Including Union Station, National Harbor, Union Market, Georgetown and More.
The Museum’s CRITTERCAM also on Display at the National Mall as Part of an Activation at The Freedom 250 Great American State Fair.
Washington DC, July 01, 2026 -
National Geographic’s Museum of Exploration celebrates its grand opening today, Friday June 26 with a citywide pop-up exhibit of life- size yellow borders – the iconic symbol of the storied brand. On display through the July 4 holiday weekend, visitors can take their photo by the iconic symbol at some of D.C.’s most recognizable landmarks, including:
The Wharf
Union Station
Union Market
NoMa Third Street Market
The Yards
Anthem Row (DowntownDC BID)
National Harbor
Georgetown East Market Lane (Market House)
Residents are encouraged to go out and explore the city and visit any yellow border location, take a photo or video, and post on social media (Instagram or TikTok), tagging @natgeomuseum and using the hashtag #NatGeoSweepstakes. Five winners will receive a pair of tickets to come and explore the new Museum. Official Rules: natgeomuseum.org/sweepstakes.
Additionally -- to honor The Museum of Exploration’s new “Red, White & Blue” exhibit which marks the semi-quincentennial celebration of the country the National Geographic Society also has an activation within The Freedom 250 Great American State Fair on the National Mall. The installation, located inside the “Made in America” Pavillion, will also feature a life-size yellow border and a special National Geographic CRITTERCAM exhibit, offering visitors a glimpse into the spirit of exploration that defines the museum.
CRITTERCAM is a research and storytelling tool engineered by the National Geographic Exploration Technology Lab to be worn by wild animals. It combines video and audio recordings with environmental data, collected from the perspective of animals, revealing new insights into animal behavior without a human presence. CRITTERCAM exploration is also featured in the Pavilion in the new museum.
The Museum of Exploration features an unprecedented collection of interactive and educational experiences, all under one roof. Highlights include the striking Pavilion entrance; The Archives exhibition, which celebrates the Society’s legacy of storytelling; and the inspirational Rolex Explorers Landing, which highlights the journey from a National Geographic Explorer’s first spark of curiosity to their lasting impact. Visitors can also satisfy their appetite at the Explorers Eatery, an international food hall featuring authentic dishes that deliver a globally inspired dining experience.
The Society is committed to ensuring the museum is as welcoming as it is inspiring. Exhibit signage throughout the museum will be available in English and Spanish, with Braille messaging in both languages available at key wayfinding points. Captioning, visual descriptions and American Sign Language (ASL) are featured in media throughout the experience. Additionally, a selection of tactile photographs will be included in the “In Focus” gallery. From seeking LEED Platinum certification through green construction and waste diversion, the project prioritized sustainability and accessibility at every level.
General admission for the Museum of Exploration starts at $29.99 for adults, with dynamic pricing anticipated to launch prior to the grand opening. Driven by the belief that cost should never be a barrier to curiosity, the Society is partnering with Museums for All to offer discounted admission to visitors who qualify. To learn more, please visit natgeo.org/moe, follow us on Instagram and subscribe to our newsletter.
