Lillian & Albert Small Jewish Museum

The Lillian & Albert Small Jewish Museum is housed in a preserved 19th-century synagogue building that spans three floors with dedicated exhibition areas. The displays document the history and life of the Jewish community in the Washington metropolitan region.

The synagogue was dedicated in 1876, when President Ulysses S. Grant became the first sitting president to attend a Jewish religious service. The building later experienced relocations before arriving at its current location at Third and F Streets NW as part of an expanded cultural facility.

The museum displays objects reflecting the role of Jews in American governance, including personal items from Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The exhibitions show how Jewish traditions and celebrations like Hanukkah have found their place even at the highest levels of power.

The museum offers guided tours and educational programs designed for school groups, families, and educators. Checking available resources and current program offerings before your visit will help you get the most from your time here.

The building experienced multiple relocations throughout the city before becoming permanently established at its current site as an expanded cultural center. These moves reflect the long history of the Jewish community's presence in Washington.

Location: Washington, D.C.

GPS coordinates: 38.89850,-77.01500

Latest update: December 13, 2025 12:23