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Essential Smithsonian Tour with NMAAHC Timed Entry

6 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 6 reviews collected by Cool Washington DC and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of travelers | Washington DC, USA

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3 hours (approx.)
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Overview

Trying to narrow down which of the Smithsonian Museums to visit—and what to see when you get there!—can be a challenge. This Smithsonian highlights tour takes the hassle out of planning your own itinerary at America's foremost collection of museums, so you can be sure to experience the most essential items across their broad collection. You'll enjoy guided visits of the Natural History and American History Museums before wrapping up at the National Museum of African American History & Culture, where you'll get in with pre-reserved timed entry and have plenty of time and space to explore on your own. With a balance of fascinating facts and iconic artifacts, this tour offers an ideal introduction to Washington, D.C.’s most treasured museums.

What's Included

  • Local English-speaking guide
  • Timed Entry tickets to National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC)
  • Small group of 10 guests max
  • Hotel Pick-up/Drop-off
  • Gratuities

Meeting Location

Meeting point

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, 10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, USA

Open in Google Maps

Meet in front of the Madison Drive entrance of the Smithsonian Museum. The museum is listed on Google Maps at 10th St. & Constitution Ave. Please be sure to go to the Madison Drive side of the building. Your guide will be waiting for you next to the "Iron Ore" statue to the left of the stairs.

End point

1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, USA

Options & Pricing

Start Time

What To Expect

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

You’ll start your Smithsonian adventure outside the Natural History Museum, where your guide will set the stage for what’s inside—an awe-inspiring collection of scientific and cultural treasures. Say hi to Henry the Elephant before heading to Fossil Hall to see one of the world’s largest T-Rex skeletons, then continue to the Marine Life Exhibit, where giant squid and North Atlantic whales await. And of course, your guide will show you the star of the museum: the dazzling Hope Diamond, steeped in beauty and mystery.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

National Museum of American History

Take a short stroll over to the Museum of American History. Your guide will lead you to some of the most iconic items from America's past, including the original Star-Spangled Banner and Abraham Lincoln’s top hat from the night he was assassinated. You'll also enjoy a stop at the First Ladies’ Exhibit to admire their inauguration gowns and venture into the pop culture wing, where you’ll find Dorothy’s famous ruby slippers and more.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

National Museum of African American History and Culture

End your day with a special timed entry to the National Museum of African American History & Culture, where powerful exhibits tell the story of resilience, struggle, and achievement. You’ll have time to explore on your own and discover displays that highlight the contributions of Black Americans throughout history.
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1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • This is a walking tour. Guests should be able to walk at a moderate pace without difficulty. Those who have mobility issues should contact us beforehand if they cannot keep up with a moderately paced walking tour.
  • While geared towards families, due to the length of this tour, we recommend this tour for kids 10+.
  • We are not allowed to guide inside the National Museum of African American History & Culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

(8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy?

A: The Essential Smithsonian Tour with NMAAHC Timed Entry has a Free Cancellation policy. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT). Read more Apr 2025

The answers provided below are based on answers previously given to customers' questions.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-7167P85

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Reviews

5.00
6 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 6 traveler reviews collected by Cool Washington DC and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

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1 star
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Cancellation Policy

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

Free cancellation
100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT).

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American Museum of Natural History Admission Ticket

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