Hi everyone. We have arranged passes for everyone who is interested to visit the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum on the National Mall at 1 pm on Sunday. We wanted to provide details for all who intend on joining us to make sure the visit is as enjoyable as possible.
Transportation and Parking:
We will all be traveling together at the close of the conference around 12 pm. Those who prefer to drive may, but will be responsible for finding and paying for parking, so please consider using ParkWhiz or similar apps to reserve a spot if you are planning to drive (see more details about parking here: https://airandspace.si.edu/visit/museum-dc/directions). Alternatively, you may leave your vehicle parked at GWU and take the metro 6 stops along the Orange, Silver, or Blue line trains to L'Enfant Station. The 32 bus leaving from Pennsylvania Ave NW & 21st St NW also stops next to the museum (at Independence Ave SW & 6th St SW). Please note, since we have been given a group pass, all who wish to join must be present at the Independence Ave Entrance at 1:15; the timed pass may expire for those who show up after this time. For any day of logistical questions, please contact Rachael Stewart at (862-377-4894) for help in coordinating arrival times.
Lunch:
The conference will not be providing lunch on Sunday, however there are several options for those who wish to join for the visit. We recommend considering purchasing lunch at the Mars Cafe located on the lower level of the museum (selections include coffee, warm sandwiches, salads and other light fare). Those who prefer to eat ahead of time are welcome to bring a lunch to the conference to eat or may explore various food options around GWU. If planning on eating ahead of time we ask again that you are mindful of the meet-up time at the museum to ensure your pass will still be valid. Please note no external food or drink other than water is permitted in the museum.
Posters:
After the conference, you may take your poster home with you. Posters must be removed from the poster session hall by 5 PM. You may store your poster in your car if you have brought one to the conference, and you are also allowed to bring them with you to the museum. Alternatively, you may store your poster at GW to be picked up after the museum visit. Please coordinate with us directly if you would like to opt for this option.
During our visit:
Upon arrival at the museum, groups are welcome to break off and explore independently. A group will be going through the museum systematically by starting off with a visit to the cafe, and then exploring each of the 8 galleries that are currently opened. At the end we will visit the gift shop. Attendees are not required to stay with the group upon admittance into the museum. Any attendees who wish to leave early are welcome to explore the museum as their schedule permits. Recommended highlights of the museum are the original 1903 Wright Flyer (the first airplane), the Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia, Neil Armstrong's spacesuit, and various iconic items from sci-fi. Additionally there is a planetarium where visitors may purchase tickets separately to enjoy.
Misc:
Please review the Museums policy for prohibited items (see: https://airandspace.si.edu/visit/museum-dc/visiting-tips#amenities). Note that each attendee will need to go through security clearance upon entrance to the museum. The museum has no mandates on masks or vaccinations for entrance. The museum will likely be crowded so those who will feel more comfortable by wearing a mask are welcome to do so.
Any questions, comments, or concerns? Please reach out either via email or contact Rachael Stewart at (862-377-4894). Looking forward to our visit together!
