Smithsonian Museum of American History Guided Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore iconic American artifacts
- Skip-the-line access to exhibits
- Learn from expert guides
- Discover the history of the United States
- Engage with interactive displays
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Expert guided tour of the museum
- Skip-the-line access to exhibits
- Personalized experience with a knowledgeable guide
- Food and beverages
Itinerary
From a ragtag group of colonists to one of the world’s super powers, the United States has made quite a name for itself. The National Museum of American History traces this path through a unique collection of objects including the actual banner that inspired the country’s national anthem. Learn about the first president, George Washington, while viewing his sword and discover how Hollywood has helped shape this country when you check out Dorothy’s ruby red slippers. Visit the extensive collection of first ladies’ gowns to the Greensboro lunch counter that embodies the Civil Rights Movement. This tour will help you to understand the exciting and oftentimes controversial history behind this vast country.
Meeting point
Start Location
Smithsonian National Museum of American History, 1300 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, USA
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English; ensure you are comfortable with the language.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible; please inform us in advance if you require special assistance.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves extensive walking.
- Bring a valid ID for entry into the museum.
- Photography may be restricted in certain exhibit areas; please follow posted guidelines.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
Good to know
- It is imperative that you provide us with guests MOBILE PHONE NUMBER (including country code)
- 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.
Traveler reviews
American History
Maureen has a wealth of knowledge and a passion for history. Very enjoyable. I highly recommend her for any of the Smithsonian tours. There is so much to see but Maureen was able to point out all the highlights in 2.5 hrs.
Annemarie was very...
Annemarie was very knowledgeable and made our experience fun. We had one family member that needed walking assistance that we didn’t plan for and Annemarie went above and beyond to accommodate him so he would have a good tour.
Good but not as good as it used to be to be
Not as good as it use to be. To much about people and immigration. And not enough about American innovation and technological displays.
Bored to tears
We choose guided tours to see as many interesting items as possible in a shorter time. The museum did have some interesting exhibits. However, our guide would spend excessive time at a handful of exhibits (e.g. 20 minutes at the George Washington statue explaining no one likes it, 15 min talking in empty hallway about the Star Spangled banner flag we hadn’t yet seen that was in another room, etc). She was completely oblivious to the fact the majority of the group was bored (looking/wandering away) and ready to move on to other exhibits.
One of the best museums in the world
If you want to get a good impression of the US, you should definitely visit this museum. In a particularly attractive way, all aspects of American society over the past 200 years are highlighted. If you want to see everything, you need half a day. And all for free