Smithsonian Natural History & National Gallery Private Tour
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
- Discover masterpieces at the National Gallery of Art
- Enjoy personalized attention from a private guide
- Experience Washington DC's iconic museums
- Benefit from convenient hotel pickup and drop-off
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Private guided tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
- Private guided tour of the National Gallery of Art
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Washington DC
- Meals and beverages
Itinerary
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.
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.
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is not wheelchair accessible.
- Service animals are allowed on the tour.
- The tour is suitable for most travelers.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves significant walking.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning exhibits and artworks.
- Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the day.
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: Natural History & 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
Leigh knows
There is so much to see. It was great to have a guide who understood our interests and directed us to exhibits that met them. Leigh was very personable and knowledgeable.
Excellent Guided Experience with Maribeth
Maribeth made our visit to both the Smithsonian National Museum of American History absolutely wonderful. She was knowledgeable, organized, and brought so much enthusiasm to the experience. Her insights helped us appreciate the exhibits on a deeper level. Maribeth was friendly, engaging, and clearly passionate about sharing history in a way that kept everyone interested. Thanks to her, our trip felt memorable and stress-free. Highly recommend Maribeth to anyone visiting these museums and wanting a more meaningful experience.
Amanda is absolutely amazing!! Tour was incredible
We had a wonderful tour with Amanda Smithsonian natural history, Museum and American history Museum. She was super patient very friendly and gave us some great educational stories about what we were experiencing. She has an outstanding personality and interacted with our teenagers perfectly. The pace of the tour was incredible. I would highly recommend this to anyone and please request Amanda!!
Don’t make it a DIY project!
Outstanding personal service while concentrating on important attractions. Much better than scrambling around and wasting time. Tour guide, Rebecca, was the best in DC!!
Book Brenda!
We loved hearing all the stories Brenda told us- going into detail abut both museums. She is a wealth of knowledge and a true gem to have on our tour. We would have been lost without her.