One of DC's newest museums is also one of the most interactive exhibit spaces.
Planet Word is not just for lovers of language. This museum will surely be a hit with anyone who loves immersive experiences, history, and dazzling creativity.
As a tour guide and homeschooling mom, I love how the museum is interactive. The first time we went, my kids were only 4 and 6 years old, and neither could read, so I wasn't sure how a museum about words would go over, but they had a fantastic time. Now that we are focusing more on reading with our oldest, we've returned a few more times, and it's just as fun.
The Planet Word Museum promises to engage, educate, and entertain visitors of all ages. Nestled in the heart of the nation's capital, this unique museum celebrates the power of words and language through interactive exhibits and immersive experiences.
Opened in October 2020, Planet Word is housed in the historic Franklin School building, which dates back to 1869. This beautifully restored landmark is the perfect backdrop for a museum dedicated to the wonder of words. Planet Word is interactive, encouraging visitors to engage with exhibits through speaking, writing, and listening.
One of the most unique aspects of Planet Word is its focus on bringing language to life. The museum uses state-of-the-art technology to create an immersive experience that appeals to all senses. Projection mapping, soundscapes, and interactive displays ensure that visitors are not just learning about language but actively engaging with it.
Tickets, Location, and Hours
Planet Word is at 925 13th St NW, Washington, DC 20005 at Franklin Square.
It is easily accessible by several buses, McPherson Square and Metro Center stops, and many street parking options.
It is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, Wednesdays through Sundays (closed at 6 pm on Saturdays). It is closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Planet Word stays open late on the first Wednesday of each month, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
General admission is free, with a suggested $15 donation.
There is an option to book a puzzle to solve to go along with your visit for $20.
You can make advanced reservations here.
What To Expect
The museum is divided into three floors and it is recommended to start at the top floor and work your way down.
The museum is located in the historic Franklin School building so in addition to interactive exhibits, you'll see beautiful tile floors and historic architecture.
Planet Word boasts a variety of exhibits designed to immerse visitors in the fascinating world of language. Some highlights include:
- The Spoken Word: Explore the evolution of spoken language and try your hand at different accents and dialects.
- The Power of Poetry: Step into a room where famous poems are brought to life through light and sound.
- Word Worlds: Create your own stories and watch them come to life in a digital landscape.
- Joking Around: Discover the art of humor and play with puns, jokes, and wordplay.
The museum goes beyond passive observation, offering hands-on activities that make learning fun. Visitors can:
- Craft their own sentences using magnetic poetry boards.
- Test their linguistic skills in word games and puzzles.
- Participate in interactive storytelling sessions.
- Experiment with different writing styles at the Writing Workshop.
Third Floor
The Third Floor is about where language comes from.
Exhibits include:
- First Words
- Where to Words Come From full wall immersive experience
- Spoken Word featuring over 30 languages
Second Floor
Here you'll explore what you can do with words - sing, poetry, jokes and more.
Exhibits include:
- Unlock the Music karaoke experience
- Joking Around Humor Gallery
- Word Worlds painting experience
- The Library with hidden rooms and magical books
- Lend me Your Ears teleprompter
First Floor
The final section of the museum speaks to the power of words.
Exhibits include:
- I'm Sold advertising gallery
- Words Matter where you can share your story
Immigrant Food+
The lower level hosts one of the locations of Immigrant Food.
The restaurant is open during the day as a fast-casual option and in the evening as a high-end sit-down restaurant.
The menu celebrates the contributions of immigrants, as inspired by award-winning Venezuelan Chef Enrique Limardo.
Plan Your Visit
Are tickets required to visit Planet Word?
The museum says that advanced reservations are required (these are free, but there is a suggested donation), but they do allow walk-ins.
You may be asked to wait up to 30 minutes to enter during busy times.
How long should I spend at Planet Word?
A visit to Planet Word is self-guided, but plan for 90 minutes to explore the museum.
Is Planet Word Museum good for kids?
Absolutely! Passes are not required for under 2, and small strollers are allowed.
There are a few first come, first serve lockers for bags and to store larger strollers.
Because the museum is so interactive, it is excellent for all ages.
What is Lexicon Lane?
This add-on puzzle option is like a treasure hunt for words. It takes place in a charming village lange on the museum's third floor.
There are three puzzle options: Purplebeard's Lost Pirate Treasure, Baba Yaga's Revenge, and Trouble on Mount Olympus.
Cases are available on a first-come, first-served basis unless you reserve in advance, so we recommend doing that to ensure availability.
It's best for ages 10+ and groups of 4 people or less.
Like an escape room, you get 60 minutes to solve the puzzle.
Things to Do Nearby
Visit the White House
Planet Word is just a few blocks from the White House, making it a great thing to do before our Lincoln Assassination Walking Tour.
We recommend viewing the White House from the north lawn if you're stopping by for a photo. It's only a 10 minute walk from the museum.
City Centre
This high end luxury area of the city is a great place for window shopping.
You'll also find great restaurants and another interactive museum, the Museum of Illusions.
It is also one of the most instagrammable places downtown, decorated seasonally.
Planet Word is centrally located so it's quick and easy to get to most of the top things to do in DC
Tips from Travelers and Locals
Since Planet Word is a newer museum, it is still a hidden gem but it is one of the surprise hits in our Facebook Group, DC Travel Tips.
Guests post regularly how much they loved visiting, with many saying it was one of their teenagers's favorite museums in the city.
