Cafeterias

An Atrium Cafe with Cyber Lounge is open from 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Two cafeterias are available for patients and family members: the second floor cafeteria is open Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Another larger cafeteria is located on the B1 level and is open from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Building 10 cafeterias hours of operation .

Chaplains

The Department of Spiritual Ministry supports your spiritual needs. Chaplains of all religious faiths are available for personal visits with you and your loved ones. A more extensive description of the Spiritual Ministry can be found at their Spiritual Ministry Department website and the patient information .

Children's Inn

The Children's Inn is a family-centered residence servicing pediatric patients and their families who travel here for treatment. For information about the Inn and use of it please see the patient information . Also visit the Children's Inn Website .

Amenities

Other facilities available for your convenience include vending machines/snack bar, gift shop, barber and beauty shop, bank, laundry, flower shop, coffee shop and ATM machine. The NIH campus has many grassy areas, several outside tables to relax and eat at, a gazebo, and small flower gardens.

Parking

Complimentary valet parking is now available to make your parking needs streamlined. Please see the parking webpage for more details. There is a great deal of construction on the NIH campus. Extensive information on construction, parking, shuttles, buses, transhare, metro schedules and metro maps can be found at parking information . Our local transportation system is called ' Metrorail ' and includes an extensive bus system as well as a rail system around the area.  Please see the NIH campus map and visitor parking (382KB) for updated parking information and maps. A detailed parking and building map can be found at the NIH Engineering Services website. Security limits access to the campus and to certain areas. The Campus Access Map will detail which entrances are available to the public.

Recreation

Recreation Therapy provides activities, library services, in-hospital entertainment and educational television. Programs include arts and crafts, music, drama, adapted sports, social events and core groups. Pet Therapy is available periodically for those who find enjoyment in animals. Talking books, music cassettes, magazines, and a couple musical instruments are available for loan from the library. The library also has a computer with internet access. Activities include the Art of Relaxation, Tai Chi, Yoga, Meditation Instruction and Healthy Cooking. There are table and board games, bingo, community outings and a playroom for young patients and visitors. Further information about recreation services can be found in the Patient Information .

Social Services

A social worker is available to assist patients and their families as needed. Services they assist with are covered in the social services section of the Patient Information .

Tutoring

Tutoring in your child's room or at the NIH school is available on a limited basis for those with extended stays or special needs. Please advise us in advance of any special needs your child may have. For more information please see the NIH Children's School section of the Patient Information .

Wheelchairs

Standard wheelchairs are provided but you should bring specially constructed mechanical appliances with you.