Skip-the-line National Archives Building Exclusive Guided Tour

Washington, US
97% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (317 reviews)

Highlights

  • Discover United States' turbulent history
  • Explore original documents like Declaration of Independence
  • See letters from George Washington and John F. Kennedy
  • Witness the Emancipation Proclamation abolishing slavery
  • Examine historical documents like the Magna Carta

Meeting Point

Meet on the bottom of the front stairs of the National Archives Building on Constitution Ave. NW

Meeting point

701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20408 , United States

End point

End Point

Meet on the bottom of the front stairs of the National Archives Building on Constitution Ave. NW

Meeting point

701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20408 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

The National Archives Museum

Enter the neoclassical building that acts as a temple to American history. Once inside, your expert guide will take you through the National Archives Rotunda to learn about the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution while observing the original documents. These papers, alongside the Bill of Rights and the Federalist Papers, are all signed by the prominent statesmen and founding fathers like Alexander Hamilton. Moving to the Public Vaults Exhibits, you’ll come face to face with letters from George Washington and John F. Kennedy. You’ll even see the Emancipation Proclamation, which, in 1863, led to the abolishment of slavery. Finally, in the Rubenstein Gallery, you’ll examine more historical documents like the Magna Carta of 1297, written well before the United States was even conceived, yet pivotal in influencing the other documents that you’ll experience in the Archives. By the end, you will have witnessed firsthand the humble documentation that created the world’s most powerful country.

Duration 120 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
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    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
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    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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    A maximum of 8 people permitted per tour allowed
  • Additional information
    Notes: National Archives and other attractions or museums in DC may be subjected to occasional closures without previous warning from the museum management. When this occurs, we will provide guests with an appropriate alternative if the museum opening time is delayed more than 1h from the tour starting time. In these cases we are unable to provide refunds or discounts. Appropriate dress is required for entry into some sites on this tour. No large bags or suitcases are allowed inside the museum, only handbags or small thin bag packs are allowed through security. Due to increased security measures at many attractions some lines may form on tours with 'Skip the Line' or 'No Wait' access. Some specific rooms inside the museum are subjected to a very quiet or restricted right to speak inside, in this cases your guide will provide the information about this places before entering the specific rooms where this rule applies. Some collections may vary along the year.
Provided by Babylon Tours DC

What our experts say

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    Arrive early to avoid delays.
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    Nearby, check out Old Ebbitt Grill for lunch.
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    Dress appropriately; some areas have strict rules.
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    No large bags allowed; plan accordingly.
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    Use public transport; it's convenient nearby.

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