#1 National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Guided Tour
Washington, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Viewing the original Declaration of Independence and the Constitution
- Exploring the Presidential Portrait Gallery
- Discovering the 1297 Magna Carta at the Rubenstein Gallery
- Visiting the Conservation Labs at the National Portrait Gallery
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Skip-the-Line Entry
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Duration 5.5 Hours
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Semi-Private (Max 8 Guests)
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Professional Tour Guide
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Includes Lunch Break
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Tour Runs Rain or Shine
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the history and culture of the United States with the National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Semi-Private Tour! This 5.5 hour guided combo tour allows you to skip-the-line and explore two essential museums in Washington DC. Marvel at the original Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights as you delve into the documents that shaped the nation. Discover presidential portraits, including those of Obama and Pocahontas, and explore conservation labs where iconic works by renowned artists such as Mary Cassatt, Edward Hopper, Andy Warhol, and Norman Rockwell are preserved. Your knowledgeable guide will bring the stories behind these artifacts to life, providing a deeper understanding of the heroes, villains, progress, and art that define the USA. Don't miss this opportunity to uncover the heart and soul of America!
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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5 hours 30 minutes
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the National Archives & Portrait Gallery with a semi-private guide, featuring skip-the-line access and in-depth insights into American history.
Included
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Skip the line entry to national archives -
Duration 5.5 hours (including a lunch break)
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Tour will run, rain or shine
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Skip-the-line semi-private tour ("semi-private" means group is never more than 8 guests max)
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Professional tour guide
Excluded
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Tour price does not include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend uber or taxi) -
Tour price does not include gratuities (optional)
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Tour is not available for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
Meeting Point
Meet on the bottom of the front stairs of the National Archives Building on Constitution Ave. NW
701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20408 , United States
End Point
Washington, DC 20004 , United States
What to expect
The National Archives Museum
The best way to understand the who and the what of the United States of America! Skip-the-line at the National Archives and start with the original handwritten “Charters of Freedom” housed in their spectacular Rotunda. Your guide will narrate the extraordinary circumstances that brought this nation into existence. Surrounded by documents and paintings giving depth and nuance to the founding period, no trip to the US Capital city is complete without a visit to the National Archives. But at Babylon we take it a step farther. In the Rubenstein Gallery, go even further to the philosophical foundations by viewing a 1297 copy of the Magna Carta. You will be guided around the room as the concept of citizenship, what it means and who is included evolves from the declaration that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights”.
120 minutes
National Portrait Gallery
After a break to ponder the complexity of history (and grab a bite) your guide will lead you to the dual exhibition space of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Inside the local Washingtonians favorite Smithsonian space you’ll wander hallways that seamlessly flow between the two collections surrounding one of the most relaxing spaces in downtown Washington DC, the Kogard Courtyard. Your guide will take you to see the famous Presidential Portrait Gallery and you’ll hear stories of other famous Americans as you view their portraits in painting, sculpture, and video form. Make your way over to the Luce Center of the American Art portion and get a chance to peek inside the labs of the Lunder Conservation Center! Some of the most iconic figures in Art and History pop up in the most unexpected places in this criminally overlooked Smithsonian!
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
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller -
Public transportation options are available nearby
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Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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It is imperative that you provide us with guests MOBILE PHONE NUMBER (including country code)
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A maximum of 8 people per tour allowed
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Minimum numbers apply. This tour will not run without a minimum of 2 guests to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
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Notes: National Archives and other attractions or museums 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.
What our experts say
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Grab lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill nearby. -
Visit the nearby Smithsonian museums.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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Check out the Kogod Courtyard for a break.
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Bring a small bag; no large bags allowed.
More About this Experience
Introduction
The National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Semi-Private Tour is a captivating 5.5-hour experience that allows you to delve into the rich history and culture of the United States in Washington DC. As you journey through these two essential museums, you'll gain intimate access to iconic documents, breathtaking art, and presidential portraits like never before. Skip-the-line and let an expert guide lead you on an enlightening exploration, providing essential context to help you fully appreciate the significance of these national treasures.What to expect?
During this tour, you can expect to witness the very foundations of the United States come alive before your eyes. See the original Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, which have shaped the course of American history. Marvel at the Bill of Rights and the 1297 Magna Carta, witnessing firsthand the milestones of democratic governance. Immerse yourself in the world of art and discover works by renowned artists such as Mary Cassatt, Edward Hopper, Andy Warhol, and Norman Rockwell. The tour also includes the chance to view captivating presidential portraits, including the 20th-century American collection and the much-talked-about Obama Portraits.Who is this for?
This tour is designed for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone passionate about American culture. Whether you're a local resident seeking to deepen your appreciation for your nation's heritage or a curious traveler eager to uncover the hidden stories behind these renowned treasures, the National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Semi-Private Tour caters to all. With a maximum group size of just eight guests, this experience allows for a more intimate and personalized journey through the museums, ensuring that each participant receives ample opportunity to engage with the exhibits.Why book this?
Embark on this unforgettable tour to witness firsthand the documents and artworks that have defined the United States. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you'll gain insights and perspectives that go far beyond what is written in history books. Explore the National Archives Museum, where the Charters of Freedom are housed, and delve into the philosophical foundations of the country as you study a 1297 copy of the Magna Carta. Continue your journey at the National Portrait Gallery, immersing yourself in the artistic legacy of iconic figures and gaining a deeper understanding of their contributions to American culture. This semi-private tour offers a personalized experience, ensuring you receive the attention and insights necessary to fully appreciate the significance of each exhibit.Good to know
This tour has a duration of 330 minutes, with each section, the National Archives Museum and the National Portrait Gallery, lasting approximately 120 minutes. The meeting point is at the corner of 9th Street NW and Constitution Ave, where you'll find your experienced guide ready to lead you on this unique adventure. As you immerse yourself in American history and art, take the time to enjoy the picturesque Kogard Courtyard and gain exclusive access to the Lunder Conservation Center, where you can witness the intricate conservation process firsthand. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your curiosity as you embark on this captivating journey through the heart and soul of the United States.Reviews
Feedback from individuals who have taken this tour speaks volumes about the incredible experience it offers. Visitors have praised the knowledge and passion of the guides, who bring the exhibits to life with captivating storytelling. Many have expressed their awe at seeing the original documents that shaped America, and the intimate glimpses into the lives of famous Americans through their portraits. The tour has been lauded for its depth and the unique insights it provides, making it a must-do experience for both locals and visitors to Washington DC.
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