National Cryptologic Museum
Joined Atlas Obscura in 2017
Have you ever enciphered and deciphered your own message on an authentic World War II Enigma machine? Here you can!
At the National Cryptologic Museum visitors can peek into the world of cryptology - the art and science of codes and ciphers - code making and code breaking.
The National Cryptologic Museum houses the most amazing collection of stories and artifacts that tell the intriguing and exciting history of American cryptology. Put your hands on real, authentic World War II Enigma machines. See the last existing machine that broke the back of the U-2 German submarine fleet - the U.S. Navy Cryptanalytic Bombe.
Catch a glimpse of some of the most dramatic moments in the history of American cryptology. For the visitor, some events in American and world history will take on a new meaning when they discover how the work of cryptologists saved tens of thousands of lives and contributed to achieving victories on our Nation's battlefields. For the cryptologic professional, the museum is an opportunity to absorb the rich heritage of the profession.
The museum is an invaluable educational tool, benefiting thousands of students and teachers every year through guided tours and special programs. The museum library is also an unmatched resource for students, teachers, authors, historians, and researchers of cryptology and the people and events who made history.
