Holocaust Memorial Museum; Washington DC

When we stopped at the Holocaust Museum I was not sure how it would affect me. I have seen many documentaries about the Holocaust. I was not sure if I would find this to be interesting.

I can say I was very wrong to doubt this Museum. This museum will leave you speechless. When my wife and I walked out the door we did not say anything to each other for quite a while. We both were deeply moved and did not know what to say.

You really need to allow yourself at least 2 hours to fully take in the Museum.
I would not lie, some of the exhibits are hard to look at and will pull at your heart. The really graphic ones are blocked up by walls so the young child can not see them.
The self guided tour starts on the 4th floors, which shows the rise of Hitler in Germany.

As you move through the exhibits and floors, there are footage to watch and stories to be told.
I was especially moved by the railcar exhibit. To look in there and imagine the suffering and fear of those packed in there....well, its too powerful to really put into words.
This place is tastefully done and every visitor is very respectful and quiet. I was so moved by this experience. There are parts that will truly move you to tears. This is a somber place, but one I feel one should visit and remember that awful time in history.

I do not recommend this place for young children. We did take our son to this Museum and we are very glad. He really would not have be able to fully understand the Holocaust completely. I do recommend teenagers though, especially if they are learning about the Holocaust in school. This place will teach much more then any school book can.