{#
#}
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
/ Person
Select date and participants
1

Your Product

Select participants
Child (0-9)
Min: 0 Max: 8
Youth (10-17)
Min: 0 Max: 8
Adult (18-99)
Min: 1 Max: 8
You can select a total maximum of: 8
At least one participant is required. Please adjust and try again.

Smithsonian Natural History + American History Semi-Private Tour

5 (20)
Washington, US
Share

Smithsonian Natural History + American History Semi-Private Tour

5 (20)
Washington, US
Share
Please wait, fetching options!
Embark on a captivating 5.5 hour semi-private tour of the Smithsonian's most iconic museums in Washington DC. With a maximum of 8 guests, you'll uncover the most famous items the Smithsonian has to offer. From cursed diamonds to the Ruby Red Slippers, our knowledgeable guides know exactly where to find the treasures that everyone comes to see. Begin your adventure at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, home to the largest collection of natural history artifacts in the world. Marvel at the majestic taxidermied elephant, explore the newly renovated Fossil Hall, and encounter the legendary Hope Diamond. After a break to recharge, continue to the Smithsonian Museum of American History to gaze upon Dorothy's ruby slippers and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of American struggle and culture. From the "Star-Spangled Banner" to Hollywood memorabilia, this is a journey through history you won't want to miss. Book now and unlock the wonders of the Smithsonian!

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • 5 hours 30 minutes
  • Suitable for 1-8 Participants
  • Private Tour, Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Guided combo tour of Smithsonian's iconic museums
  • See the largest Natural History collection in the world
  • Marvel at Dorothy's ruby slippers
  • Explore touchstones of American struggle and culture
  • Expert guide to navigate memory lane
  • SKIP-THE-LINE SEMI-PRIVATE MUSEUM TOUR
  • SEMI-PRIVATE" MEANS GROUP SIZE IS NEVER MORE THAN 8 GUESTS MAXIMUM
  • DURATION 5.5 HOURS
  • PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDE
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup or drop-off

Popular Hotels Closeby

More about this experience

Introduction

Are you ready for a captivating journey into the treasures of American history and the wonders of the natural world? Look no further than the Smithsonian Natural History + American History Semi-Private Tour. This 5.5-hour guided combo tour allows you to explore the most iconic museums in Washington DC with a small group of maximum eight guests. Get ready to discover the most famous items of the Smithsonian, including cursed diamonds, famous flags, and even Dorothy's Ruby Red Slippers.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to be immersed in the rich history and extraordinary exhibits of the Smithsonian. Your adventure begins at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, where you'll marvel at the largest taxidermied elephant in the world, known as Henry. Explore the exceptional Natural History collection, from the supposedly cursed Hope Diamond to the renovated Fossil Hall, featuring towering dinosaurs like the T-Rex and Diplodocus. Next, recharge and prepare for another remarkable experience at the National Museum of American History. As you walk through the First Ladies exhibit and marvel at Dorothy's ruby slippers, you'll encounter touchstones of American struggle, identity, and culture. From the Greensboro Lunch Counter to military uniforms and Hollywood memorabilia, you'll be taken on a nostalgic journey through the twists and turns of American memory.

Who is this for?

This tour is designed for anyone seeking an immersive and memorable experience of American history, culture, and natural wonders. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or simply curious about the world around you, this tour is for you. Families, friends, and solo travelers will all find something to enjoy during this enlightening journey through the Smithsonian's iconic museums.

Why book this?

By booking the Smithsonian Natural History + American History Semi-Private Tour, you're ensuring an enriching and personalized exploration of two of Washington DC's most renowned museums. With a maximum group size of eight guests, you'll enjoy a more intimate and engaging experience led by expert guides. Delve into the stories behind famous artifacts, discover hidden gems, and gain unparalleled insights into American history and the natural world. This tour offers a unique opportunity to witness firsthand the iconic objects and exhibits that have shaped the nation's identity.

Good to know

When booking this tour, keep in mind that the total duration is approximately 330 minutes. The meeting point is the Madison Drive NW entrance of the Museum of Natural History, facing the lawn of the National Mall. The tour includes visits to both the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of American History, with a break in between for recharging. Your journey will end at the same location where it began.

Reviews

Those who have experienced the Smithsonian Natural History + American History Semi-Private Tour have been mesmerized by the depth of knowledge and passion exhibited by the guides. Travelers have praised the engaging storytelling, the opportunity to see renowned artifacts up close, and the smooth organization of the tour. Visitors were left inspired by the extraordinary exhibits, gaining a deeper understanding of both American history and the wonders of the natural world. Overall, reviewers highly recommend this tour for an unforgettable journey through time and culture.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The best way to see the most famous items in the Smithsonian Institution’s vast collection. Start your day with the largest Natural History collection in the world. Stones, bones, and bugs clamor for your attention at the Smithsonian Natural History museum as the largest taxidermied elephant in the world trumpets your welcome (his name is Henry!). But of course, these aren’t just any stones, bones, and bugs from someone’s backyard. From the (supposedly) cursed Hope Diamond to the recently renovated Fossil Hall with Mastodon, T-Rex, and Diplodocus looming over you, your inner child will remind you of how fascinating the natural world’s mysteries are.

National Museum of American History

After a break to recharge, the Smithsonian Museum of American History’s treasures are next. Gaze upon Dorothy’s ruby slippers which rival the Hope Diamond in notoriety. Walk amongst the First Ladies exhibit — the most visited exhibit in the history of the Smithsonian! You’ll see touchstones of American struggle, identity and culture from the “Star-Spangled Banner” that flew over Ft. McHenry at dawn’s early light signifying the turning point of the War of 1812 and inspiring the song that would become the Nation’s Anthem in the 1930’s to the Greensboro Lunch Counter that reminds us that our battles have taken many forms. Cars, trains, kitchens, military uniforms, political ephemera, and Hollywood memorabilia will take you down the twists and turns of memory lane navigated by your expert guide.

Reviews

(20)

5 (20)

Hope_B

Really enjoyed the tour and both museums! Our guide was very knowledgeable, providing the right amount of flexibility and commentary.

jowellw

Richard Robinson was our tour guide and we had a wonderful experience. The museum of natural history was truly fascinating and Richard was very insightful. The tour was well paced and the American History museum was also amazing!

James_W

Richard was excellent! We learned a lot and enjoyed all the galleries. The tour was well paced and informative.

marciaw883

Terrific tour! Amanda, our guide was wonderful. She knew the ins and outs. What a great way to see a lot of real estate in a short amount of time. She took us to the highlights. Had in-depth analysis. Knew where to go to see the highlights and must sees. The American history museum really topped my expectations. I was expecting old, dusty, and just a look back at history. Instead, the museum comes alive! We loved the presidential gallery, the first ladies inaugural gowns, even Julia, Childs kitchen! Examining every day culture, history, and pop culture. I would highly recommend.

JulianaLu67

Leigh was a phenomenal guide. So knowledgeable and enthusiastic. I wondered if I would appreciate this tour with my limited knowledge of art. The answer is YES! I learned so much about the history of art. Leigh explained how the culture of the periods influenced styles/techniques of so many artists/paintings. It was fascinating. We covered so much but the time flew. I would love to do it again. Such a beautiful museum. Highly recommend this tour!

Route66cc

I love the majesty of the building itself. There were lots of people there yes. However, it never felt like we in a mass such as a concert. My biggest suggestion is to always go to the left while everyone else seems to go right. (If there is an option.) Also, start at the farthest section from the front entrance. It will probably be less crowded. We enjoyed the exhibits. We go to many museums around the world. This one did not disappoint. There are clean and large restroom facilities. There is seating in multiple places for the "just tired" or for little ones to take a break. Also, as with all museums, the lighting is dim to protect the artifacts. Keep that in mind if you have vision limitations. Also, be aware that many small children may cross your path. Always be aware of the surroundings for safety. I

shajuj2022

Richard was an amazing tour guide and an even more amazing storyteller! We learned so much and the experience would not have been the same if we were just walking around on our own.

Kathy B

Richard was great, extremely knowledgeable, and friendly. He drew us into the exhibits and paintings with detailed history and background facts. It was truly a fabulous day. Would hope to have Richard again for tours

Samantha h

We had a fabulous guide, Donna. She was very knowledgeable and kept us on schedule. She was very passionate about art which was wonderful for the second portion of the tour.

Quest645501

Donna, was a great tour guide! With two kids (8 & 10), she focused on the highlights and quickly moved us through to the key exhibits. Highly recommended.
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-05-06 09:32