Photos show National Geographic’s enduring legacy and bright future of sparking curiosity

Opening in summer 2026, the National Geographic Museum of Exploration will start the next chapter of its history.

Black-and-white image of the facade of the National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Photograph by Jacob Gayer
Published March 26, 2026

For 138 years, the National Geographic Society has explored every corner of the globe. National Geographic Explorers have brought wonder and curiosity to the world through a rich history of discovery and breathtaking photography.

As this journey continues down a new, exciting path with the opening of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration, revisit photos of Base Camp and get a sneak peek of what’s to come.

Step into the Museum of Exploration and ignite your spark. Get your tickets now.

A group of children gathered around a circular flood inlay of a globe
Historical photograph of children gathered around the National Geographic Society seal at the headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Photograph by J. Baylor Roberts
People gathered around the Explorer II stratospheric balloon
Explorer II gondola in front of an image of the Stratobowl.
Photographs of the Explorer II gondola. The crewed stratospheric balloon launched from South Dakota's Stratobowl in 1935.
Photograph by B. Anthony Stewart (Top) (Left) and National Geographic Society (Bottom) (Right)
Two boys examining an underwater strobe on display at National Geographic Society headquarters.
Historical photograph shows children examining an underwater strobe on display at National Geographic Society headquarters.
Photograph by B. Anthony Stewart
People gathered under an installation of stars
Visitors viewing a space exhibit at the National Geographic Society headquarters.
Photograph by Emory Kristof
Visitors sit in front of a fountain with a globe
Tourists view a large globe and fountain in Explorers Hall at National Geographic Society headquarters in 1964.
Photograph by Emory Kristof
A group of visitors examining a scale model of the Titanic.
Tourists examine a scale model of the Titanic at a National Geographic Society exhibit in 2008.
Photograph by Mark Thiessen

The Museum of Exploration opening summer 2026.

Rendering of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration shows a wall of National Geographic magazine covers
National Geographic Society
Rendering of the National Geographic Museum of Exploration shows a video projection of a whale on the facade of a building
National Geographic Society