National Archives Guided Tour
From$69
1 hour
Washington DC, USA
About this activity
Experience a semi-private guided tour of the National Archives Building, featuring skip-the-line access and insights into America's founding documents.
Highlights
- Skip-the-line access to the National Archives Building
- Guided tour with a knowledgeable expert
- Semi-private group experience (maximum 6 people)
- See the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution
- Learn about the history of the National Archives
Full description
Dive into the heart of American history with an exclusive guided tour of the National Archives Building. Skip the usual lines and delve into the stories behind the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. With a maximum of six participants, enjoy an intimate experience led by a knowledgeable expert who will bring these iconic documents to life. This tour offers a unique opportunity to connect with the nation's past in a way that's both engaging and educational. Don't miss out on this unforgettable journey through America's foundational history.
Included / Excluded
- Skip-the-line access to the National Archives Building
- Guided tour with a knowledgeable expert
- Semi-private group experience (maximum 6 people)
- Food and beverages
Itinerary
1
Step through the doors of this majestic neoclassical building, often called a temple to American history. Follow your guide into the National Archives Rotunda to learn about the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution while standing before these remarkably preserved documents. Alongside the Bill of Rights and Federalist Papers, you’ll see signatures from famous statesmen such as Alexander Hamilton. Next, explore the Public Vaults Exhibits, where letters from presidents including George Washington and John F. Kennedy are on display. Learn about the Emancipation Proclamation and its role in ending slavery, then see documents connected to the Civil Rights Movement, including a citation issued to Rosa Parks. Finally, in the Rubenstein Gallery, examine the 1297 Magna Carta. Written centuries before the founding of the United States, it profoundly influenced many of the historic documents housed in the National Archives today.
Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: YES
Meeting point
Start Location
National Archives Museum, 701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20408, USA
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour is conducted in English; please ensure you understand the language.
- The tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.
- Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Know before you go
- Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes early to ensure a timely departure.
- Photography is allowed, but please avoid using flash near the documents.
- Restrooms are available at the meeting point; consider using them before the tour begins.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- It is imperative that you provide us with guests MOBILE PHONE NUMBER (including country code)
- 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.
- 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.
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee – Important Details We stand by our commitment to providing the best tour experience. If for any reason your experience did not meet expectations, we offer a 100% Guarantee under the following conditions: 1. Contact Us Within 24 Hours – To qualify for any potential refund or resolution, you must reach out to us within 24 hours of your tour. 2. Give Us a Chance to Make It Right – Before posting any negative reviews online, please allow us the opportunity to address your concerns. We take pride in our customer service and are committed to finding a fair solution. To request a resolution, please contact us at after tour. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to ensuring every guest has an amazing experience!
Traveler reviews
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Excellent Tour of the Archives, Skip-the-line was the way to go!
Excellent Tour of the Archives, Skip-the-line was the way to go! No waiting or going through the front door during crazy times during the 250th. Our guide Meghan was super knowledgable about all aspects of the Archives...super knowledge of all the exhibits!
douglasw417Jul 13, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Highly-recommend taking this informational tour of the National Archives
This tour was fabulous! Maribeth was so knowledgeable and enthusiastically shared her wealth of information with us. We were there on July 3rd so the Archives were super crowded. She expertly guided our group of 6 through the throngs and knew where to stand to best see and hear things. And getting to skip the outside line and the rotunda line is worth a lot! Yes, you can go to the Archives for free on your own, but I highly recommend taking this tour to get the richest experience. Well worth the money.
emmakZ2338FRJul 13, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Wow!! Totally worth it!!
Maribeth was a wonderful tour guide. She was a treasure trove of information. I highly recommend using TripAdvisor and especially Maribeth. FIVE STARS!!
R3094TVramonasJul 7, 2026TRIPADVISOR
We think that all tours...
We think that all tours should be 2 hours. The archives have a lot more than just our founding documents.
Marc_AJul 6, 2026VIATOR
Fantastic!
This tour and tour guide brought history to life in a magnificent way. The back stories of the historical documents, as well as the scope of what the archives actually encompass was captivating. We thoroughly enjoyed this experience so very much. My husband had seeing these incredible documents on his “bucket list,” and he was not disappointed.
beckymangum1Jul 5, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
It is imperative that you provide us with guests MOBILE PHONE NUMBER (including country code)
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.
Notes: American History Museum 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.
100% Satisfaction Guarantee – Important Details We stand by our commitment to providing the best tour experience. If for any reason your experience did not meet expectations, we offer a 100% Guarantee under the following conditions: 1. Contact Us Within 24 Hours – To qualify for any potential refund or resolution, you must reach out to us within 24 hours of your tour. 2. Give Us a Chance to Make It Right – Before posting any negative reviews online, please allow us the opportunity to address your concerns. We take pride in our customer service and are committed to finding a fair solution. To request a resolution, please contact us at after tour. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to ensuring every guest has an amazing experience!