5.0(36 reviews)
National Archives & Portrait Gallery Tour
From$174.9
3 hours
Washington DC, USA
About this activity
Delve into American history with a guided tour of the National Archives and National Portrait Gallery, featuring iconic documents and portraits in an intimate setting.
Highlights
- Explore the National Archives Building
- See the Declaration of Independence
- Discover the National Portrait Gallery
- Learn about American history
- Enjoy a small group experience
Full description
Step into the heart of American history with this engaging 3-hour guided tour of Washington, D.C.'s National Archives Building and National Portrait Gallery. In a small group of no more than six, you'll gain an in-depth understanding of the nation's most significant documents and artworks. Marvel at the original Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights housed in the National Archives. Then, immerse yourself in the National Portrait Gallery's extensive collection of portraits that chronicle the lives of influential figures throughout American history. This tour offers a personalized experience, allowing you to explore these iconic institutions at your own pace while benefiting from the expertise of your knowledgeable guide. It's the perfect way to connect with the rich tapestry of America's past in a comfortable and informative setting.
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour of the National Archives Building
- Visit to the National Portrait Gallery
- Small group experience with a maximum of 6 participants
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
1
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”.
Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
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!
Duration: 2 hoursAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 participants to ensure an intimate experience.
- The National Archives Building and National Portrait Gallery are wheelchair accessible.
- The tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather conditions.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves walking and standing.
- Bring a valid ID for entry into the National Archives Building.
- Photography may be restricted in certain areas; please follow the guide's instructions.
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)
- A maximum of 8 people per tour allowed
- 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 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.
Traveler reviews
5.036 reviews
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Great guide
Our guide Maribeth was very knowledgeable and helpful and friendly.
tdavis2317May 24, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Very, very good tour guide
Excellent tour guide with tons of information. Saw the Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, Constitution, and Magna Carta. Well worth the time and money.
theam829May 20, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Recommend AnneMarie for the National Archives!
AnneMarie did a wonderful job giving history and context during our tour of the National Archives. She was so incredibly knowledgeable and patient and made the whole tour feel very relaxed and comfortable, often encouraging the only child on the tour to frequently contribute. She ensured it was a wonderful experience.
MaddogarfJul 27, 2025TRIPADVISOR
Great experience - well worth the time and cost. I wish every tour could be this informative and exciting.
We learned and experienced more than I ever expected. Maribeth,our guide was excellent. She made history come to life!
Steven GJan 26, 2025TRIPADVISOR
A must!
AMAZING!!! Wow, I can’t express how much I loved this tour. It was my first time visiting D.C., and this experience was the perfect addition to my trip. Brenda, our tour guide, was absolutely fantastic—so knowledgeable and engaging. I’ll admit, I’ve never been much of a history buff and didn’t really enjoy it in school, but Brenda presented everything in such an interesting and approachable way. I not only understood the stories she shared but was completely engaged the entire time. I honestly didn’t think I’d ever enjoy learning this much! Brenda was patient and thorough when answering questions, making sure I fully understood and, as she put it, “filled in the gaps.” She kept the whole group involved with thought-provoking questions and vivid storytelling, which really brought the history to life. It’s a memory i’ll cherish forever. I would 100% recommend this tour—and especially Brenda as a guide—to anyone visiting D.C. It’s truly a MUST!
angelicagK5716OMDec 16, 2024TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
It is imperative that you provide us with guests MOBILE PHONE NUMBER (including country code)
A maximum of 8 people per tour allowed
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 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.