Occupying the block on F Street between Fourth and Fifth street, this museum was designed by General Montgomery C. Meigs. The massive brick structure was built 1882-87 as the U.S. Pension Building. The museum is dedicated to exploring the history of American buildings, including architeture, engineering, construction and urban planning.
The dramatic Great Hall contains some of the world's tallest Corinthian columns and has been the site of 14 presidential inaugural balls.
Guided tours are offered.
