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 is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves immersive experiences, history, and dazzling creativity.
Tickets, Location, and Hours
Planet Word is at 925 13th St NW, Washington, DC 20005 at Franklin Square (map).
It is easily accessible by a number of buses, McPherson Square and Metro Center stops, and many street parking options.
It is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm Wednesdays through Sunday (closed at 6pm on Saturdays). It is closed on Monday and Tuesday.
Planet Word stays open late the first Wednesday of each month, 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.
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 has hosts one of the locations of Immigrant Food.
Tue-Thur 11AM-9PM
Fri-Sat 11AM-10PM
Sun 11AM-3PM
Mon Closed
The restaurant is open as a fast casual option during the day, but it is also open as a high end sit down restaurant in the evening.
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.
During busy times, you may be asked to wait up to 30 minutes to enter.
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 great for all ages.
What is Lexicon Lane?
This add on puzzle option is like a treasure hunt of words. It takes place in a charming village lange on the third floor of the museum.
There are three puzzle options: Purplebeard's Lost Pirate Treasure, Baba Yaga's Revenge, Trouble on Mount Olympus.
Cases are available first come first serve unless you reserve in advance, so we recommend doing that to make sure its available.
It's best for ages 10+ and groups of 4 people or less.
Just 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.
