Virginia Railway Express
The long, colorful history of the United States Postal Service is showcased beautifully in the former Washington Post Office Building at First Street and Massachusetts Avenue, N.E.
Located across First Street from Union Station, the Smithsonian's National Postal Museum houses one of the world's largest and most comprehensive collections of stamps and philatelic materials. More than 13 million objects are rotated regularly through the museum's galleries to keep the exhibits fresh and exciting. The museum is geared to a family audience with more than 40 interactive exhibits and touch screens that will engage visitors of all ages.
The museum is located on the lower level of the of the building and is open daily from 10:00am to 5:30pm, except December 25; admission is free. Please call (202)-357-2991 for additional information. Tours are available from the information desk at 11:00am, 1:00pm and 2:00pm on weekdays and weekends at 11:00am and 1:00pm. Public programs are listed at the museum's information kiosk and on the museum's web site. Public parking is extremely limited and the use of public transportation is highly recommended.
VRE, AMTRAK and Metro's Red Line all serve Union Station. VRE can transport Virginia residents and visitors to the museum in comfort while avoiding the hassle of highway driving or problems of parking. VRE offers morning departures from Manassas, Fredericksburg and intermediate points to Washington's Union Station with return trips beginning in mid-afternoon.
Union Station is located across the street from the museum. Exit Union Station through the great hall. Turn right, cross First Street, N.E. and look for the tall banners advertising the location of the museum at the intersection of First Street and Massachusetts Avenue.
VRE ten trip ticket and monthly pass holders are reminded they may ride select Amtrak trains to/from Washington. Ten trip ticket holders have the option of using those tickets for a party of two of more. And don't forget your VRE ticket allows FREE Metrobus transfers to or from a VRE station simply by displaying the ticket upon boarding.