FAQS

Special Events

What are the dates for the Howl at The Moon - Halloween Experience event?

The Howl at The Moon - Halloween Experience runs from October 15 to November 1, and the cost is $55.

Who is featured at the Founder's Day Gala on November 10?

The Founder's Day Gala features the Sirius Company, and the cost is $125.

On what date is the Lez Zeppelin Acoustic LIVE! performance taking place?

Lez Zeppelin Acoustic LIVE! takes place on November 15, and the cost is $100.

Who are the performers for the Holiday Concert & Fundraiser on December 6?

The Holiday Concert & Fundraiser features Dan Navarro & Marc Douglas Berardo, and the cost is $45.

What is included with the Christmas Eve Secret Door & Champagne Tour on December 24?

The Christmas Eve Secret Door & Champagne Tour includes a glass of champagne and a keepsake glass, and the cost is $54.5.

Background & History

What is O Museum in The Mansion?

O Museum in The Mansion - also known as The Secret Door Museum - is one of Washington, DC's most imaginative museums, featuring more than 100 themed rooms, over 80 secret doors, and thousands of artifacts spanning art, music, sports, history, and American pop culture. Visitors explore at their own pace, discovering hidden passages and one-of-a-kind treasures throughout the historic mansion.

Why is O Museum considered one of DC's most unique attractions?

The museum blends immersive design, interactive exploration, and real historic storytelling. Each room is uniquely themed, filled with rare collections ranging from rock-and-roll memorabilia to anime and Americana. Guests can search for secret doors, find hidden surprises, and enjoy hands-on moments they won't find anywhere else.

Was Rosa Parks connected to O Museum?

Yes. O Museum served as the "home-away-from-home" for Mrs. Rosa Parks for nearly a decade through the Museum's Heroes-In-Residence program. Visitors can step inside the rooms she lived in and learn about her time in Washington, DC and her lifelong humanitarian work.

Location, Hours & Contact

What is your address?

2020 O Street N.W. Washington, D.C. 20036

What is the nearest metro subway station?

The Dupont Circle Metro Red Line - South Exit is only a block and a half away.

When are you open?

The O Museum is open Sunday & Monday 9am-6pm, Tuesday through Saturday 9am-9pm.

Where is O Museum located?

O Museum in The Mansion is located in Dupont Circle in Washington, DC. Detailed directions and parking tips are available on the museum's visit page.

Other

Can I stay overnight?

Yes, O Museum in the Mansion also operates as a unique boutique hotel with themed rooms. Their "Night at the Museum" tour offers an immersive overnight experience with extended access to the museum and it's collection. 

Can I purchase items found inside the museum?

Yes. The O Museum operates under a unique policy where everything is for sale (except items with a heartbeat). Visitors are encouraged to bring their own shopping bags.

Can I host a private event at O Museum?

Yes. The museum hosts weddings, bar and bot mitzvahs birthdays, corporate retreats, corporate events, team building, meetings, holiday parties, celebrations of life, and creative gatherings. With more than 100 themed rooms, it offers extraordinary spaces for unforgettable events.

Does O Museum support educational programs?

Yes. The museum offers hands-on educational programs that encourage creativity, storytelling, and exploration. School groups and youth organizations are welcome.

Do I need tickets in advance?

Advance tickets are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Timed entry helps ensure guests enjoy a relaxed and spacious experience while exploring the mansion.

The Secret Door Tour Experience

How long does the tour take?

Most visitors spend between 1.5 to 2.5 hours exploring, though you may move entirely at your own pace. The final reservation slot of the day is allocated exactly 1 hour.

Are maps or hints provided during the tour?

No, the Secret Door Tour is completely self-guided with no maps or hints provided. Finding three secret doors qualifies you as an "above-average sleuth".

What should I know before my first visit?

Expect an immersive, hands-on experience where exploration is encouraged. Wear comfortable shoes, keep your eyes open for hidden passages, and don't rush - the magic is in discovering the unexpected.

Is O Museum accessible?

The museum is ADA compliant and works to accommodate guests with varying needs . While the historic nature of the mansion includes staircases and tight passages, there are also elevators and staff can help visitors choose routes that work best for them.

How long does a typical visit take?

Most visitors spend 1.5 to 2.5 hours exploring, though many stay longer because every room leads to new discoveries. The museum is self-guided, so guests can move at their own pace.

Can visitors take photos or film inside the museum?

Yes. If you are on a tour photography and videography for personal use are encouraged. We ask that you only capture our exhibits and guests in your own party. We do not permit formal staged video or photo shoots without express permission. If you would like to set up an individual photoshoot in just one room please inquire.

Is the museum good for kids and families?

Yes. O Museum is designed for explorers of all ages. Families enjoy hunting for secret doors, discovering unusual rooms, and taking photos in immersive, story-driven spaces. Kids especially love the interactive surprises throughout the mansion.

Is O Museum a good place for group tours or team-building events?

Absolutely. The museum offers customizable group tours, private events, and team-building experiences where guests search for secret doors and hidden objects, explore themed rooms, and enjoy creative challenges. It's a popular destination for student groups, corporations, and travelers looking for a memorable shared experience.

What kinds of collections does the museum have?

The museum houses eclectic and rare collections, including music, history, sports memorabilia, photography, literature, film, anime, and American pop culture. Immersive exhibits feature everything from historic artifacts to whimsical installations designed to spark creativity and curiosity.

Can I find secret doors at O Museum?

Yes. One of the museum's most popular features is its network of more than 80 secret doors. Guests can search for them throughout the mansion - some obvious, some cleverly hidden - making each visit an adventure filled with discovery.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable shoes. O Museum is 30,000 sq.ft. so there is a lot to see and explore.

Can I take photos?

Yes. If you are on a tour photography and videography for personal use is encouraged. We ask that you only capture our exhibits and guests in your own party.

We do not permit formal staged video or photo shoots without advance express permission. If you would like to set up a staged video or photoshoot in one of our unique spaces please inquire.

Is the museum accessible for people with disabilities?

The museum is ADA compliant and works to accommodate guests with varying needs . While the historic nature of the mansion includes staircases and tight passages, there are also elevators and staff can help visitors choose routes that work best for them.

Do I need a reservation?

Yes, advance tickets are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Timed entry helps ensure guests enjoy a relaxed and spacious experience while exploring the museum.