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Accessibility

Dumbarton Oaks welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities.

Museum   Wheelchair

The Dumbarton Oaks Museum is fully accessible to people who use mobility aids. The museum entrance is located on 1703 32nd Street NW, between R and S streets, one block east of Wisconsin Avenue.

One wheelchair is available on a first-come, first-served basis for the convenience of museum visitors. The wheelchair cannot be taken out of the museum or into the gardens, and no Dumbarton Oaks staff can be provided as attendants; a companion of the visitor must be able to assist, if needed. Additionally, two single light strollers are available on a first-come, first-served basis for the convenience of visitors with small children. Please inquire with staff in the main lobby regarding use of the wheelchair and strollers.

Accessible restrooms are located in the museum lower level and can be reached by elevator.

Please see here for more information about how to plan your visit.

 

Gardens

The entrance to the Dumbarton Oaks Gardens is at R and 31st streets NW.

In keeping with its topography and historic design, our hillside gardens present several challenges to visitors who use mobility aids, including steep inclines, slippery surfaces, loose gravel walkways, staircases, and other impediments.

Visitors with disabilities are encouraged to visit our website prior to arrival, and may prefer to Visit Virtually, where they can take virtual garden tour and learn more about each section of our Gardens. Visitors may find a topographical map here.

Restrooms for gardens visitors are located in the Orangery. Due to the uneven terrain, these restrooms are not easily accessible to visitors using wheelchairs or with limited mobility. Visitors are welcome to use the accessible restrooms in the museum basement; however, to do so visitors must exit the gardens and enter the museum from the 1703 32nd Street entrance. Please see here for more information about how to plan your visit.


Events

If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact the event organizer listed in the event announcement. Requests for Sign Language interpreters and/or CART providers should be made at least two weeks in advance, if possible. Please note that Dumbarton Oaks will make every effort to secure services but that services are subject to availability.


Research Library   Wheelchair

The research library is available to registered users with active library badges, including registered users with disabilities. Advance notice of any accommodations needed is appreciated, so that library staff may provide information about accessible routes and other assistance. There are accessible restrooms in the library. Please refer to the Library Access page for reader eligibility requirements and other information.

 

Meeting Rooms

During scholarly events (where preregistration is required), some of our meeting spaces in the historic part of the Main House, such as the Founders’ Room and the Music Room, can be made accessible with some advanced preparation. Participants in scholarly meetings who need accommodations should notify the event organizer at the time of registration. Information about upcoming events can be found on our website.


Employees/Fellows

If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about the physical access provided, please contact humanresources@doaks.org or 202-339-6400 ext. 6994.


Digital Accessibility

For more information, please refer to the Digital Accessibility page.