National Cryptologic Museum
Annapolis Junction, Maryland, United States
A small but mighty Maryland museum on all things encryption with free entry and clean facilities.
The National Cryptologic Museum recently reopened after a few month closure. It's got some good exhibits, informative signage, and well curated displays cleverly arranged.
There are a handful of interactive cryptography pieces for all ages, a scavenger hunt for the young ones, and good variety for secure communications across all facets (e.g. outer space! ancient codex, wartime letters, the President's red phone, etc.).
The facilities are well maintained, easy to find and park at, the staff friendly (and intelligence agency friends can do paid volunteering). The merchandise could use a bit more love, as that's my favorite way to support things with my dollars and become a walking advertisement for something I enjoy (and I walked away empty handed).
This is certainly not the area's finest museum, but it's worthy of a visit if you enjoy learning and are particularly keen on the history of codebreaking.
If you like this museum, you should also check out the International Spy Museum in Washington, DC, which is far grander while encompassing similar terrain. And apparently this museum’s curator (Vince Houghton) previously worked at the Spy Museum.
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