During an interactive tour of FBI Headquarters in Washington, DC, the author’s husband, Hal Marzell, examines the desk of former FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover.

Many teachers would agree that interactive museums offer wonderful opportunities for experiential learning. One of the most unique interactive museums is the headquarters of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), located in Washington, DC.

Access to FBI Headquarters is strictly protected, but your students can arrange a visit through the office of their US Congressman. The tours can be scheduled for business days 9 am – 3 pm. The building is closed on federal holidays. Allow at least one month before visiting Washington, DC, for confirmation of your visit. Admission is free. To learn more about taking a tour of the FBI building, consult this link: FBI Experience.

If students can gain admission, they can learn about the Bureau’s history, their work, and internal operations. Tours are led by FBI agents, retired FBI agents, or employees and are very knowledgeable. Many of the exhibits are interactive, and include a wealth of multi-media content and numerous artifacts. I enjoyed searching for the location of the hidden surveillance camera, sitting in the front seat of a genuine New York police vehicle, examining the desk of former FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, and viewing the display of artifacts recovered from Ground Zero. The museum even offers some kid-friendly exhibits!

Best of all, I think, is the emphasis placed throughout the tour on potential employment opportunities offered by the FBI. This is especially great for students who might be giving thought to future careers.