The National Geographic Society has unveiled plans for a sustainability-built visitor experience as part of its reimagined campus in the heart of Washington, D.C. – The Museum of Exploration.
Scheduled to open in mid-2026, the museum is designed with state-of-the-art technologies and will feature one-of-a-kind National Geographic curated 'exhibitions, immersive and educational experiences, a cutting edge theater, a restaurant, and a retail store'.
CEO of the National Geographic Society Jill Tiefenthaler said, "The Museum of Exploration marks a historic chapter in the Society’s mission to advance exploration, science, education, and storytelling, bringing these experiences to life in ways that spark curiosity, create lasting memories and invite everyone to embrace their inner Explorer. We’re excited to welcome visitors to experience our mission through immersive, unforgettable moments that deepen their connection to the wonder of our world."
With the Museum still under construction only a few planned experiences have been revealed, however, they sound like a photographer's dream.
As shown in the video of the artists' rendering (above), there will be a dedicated photography gallery showcasing images taken on global expeditions, by some of the greatest documentary and wildlife photographers on the planet. Photography will also be on display throughout the unique exhibitions and in the Magazine Gallery and archive enabling visitors to explore the legacy of National Geographic.
The 'Rolex Explorers Landing' is an exhibition dedicated to the stories captured by National Geographic photographers, filmmakers, and explorers from their global excursions. The work on display will feature photography, artifacts, and video as well as some of the equipment used on the trips.
The 'Immersive Experience' transports visitors into the field with immersive exhibitions through video, sound, and learning stations in an effort to spark the next generation of change-makers and storytellers.
National Geographic states "Experience the world like never before through immersive exhibits and cutting-edge technologies that reveal the wildlife, landscapes, communities, and cultures that make up our incredible planet."
A state-of-the-art 400-seater theater will showcase award-winning National Geographic films and stories like never before. The immersive auditorium is represented in the renderings above and will provide an Imax-like experience through imagery and education.
I recently attended Wildscreen Festival, a photography and filmmaking festival focused on the natural world. Among the many exciting organizations there, National Geographic provided incredible films, talks, and seminars presented by its filmmakers and photographers. If that is anything to go by, The Museum of Explorers will be the go-to place for wildlife and conservation filmmaking.
National Geographic has always represented the epitome of visual storytelling and The Museum of Exploration will enhance this further. This is an exciting project and a fantastic way to bring about change and respect for our natural world – by placing visitors in the story!
