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Smithsonian Semi-Private Tour: Iconic American History
5.0
23 Ratings
Washington
Embark on a 5.5-hour semi-private tour of the Smithsonian’s most iconic museums in Washington DC. Discover cursed diamonds, famous flags, and the legendary Ruby Red Slippers.
Duration:
5 hours, 30 minutes
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History - 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.
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What's Included
- Skip-the-line semi-private museum tour
- Group size limited to 8 guests for a personalized experience
- Enjoy a comprehensive 5.5-hour tour
- Expert guidance from a professional tour guide
What's Not Included
- Hotel pickup or drop-off
- Gratuities
Additional Information
Join us on a semi-private guided combo tour, designed for a maximum of 8 visitors, lasting for approximately 5.5 hours, to uncover the most cherished artefacts of the two most prestigious Smithsonian museums in Washington DC. Immerse yourself in history and intrigue with treasures like cursed diamonds, renowned flags, and of course, the legendary Ruby Red Slippers. Our guides are well-versed with the locations of these much sought-after exhibits within the Smithsonian Institution.
- 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: 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.
Location
1010 Madison Dr NW
Madison Drive Northwest
Meet your guide on the large stairs at the Madison Drive NW entrance of the Museum of Natural History, facing the lawn of the National Mall.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
5.0
(23 Ratings)
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Global790334
Jun 5, 2024
Fabulous Tour Guide! - Our tour guide, Donna, was amazing! Informative, engaging and entertaining. Went at just the right speed and was friendly, warm and incredibly knowledgeable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Michaellu4731zo
May 20, 2024
This tour was educational, interesting and entertaining! - This tour was awesome. Our guide, Christopher did a great job. The tour was educational, interesting and entertaining! Christopher brought the history to life for us and our boys. Both tours allowed us to get highlights and not feel like we missed the major aspects of the museums in a reasonable amount of time. Then we were able to go back later and spend more time on things we wanted to experience in depth. Great tour!!
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Queeneyek
May 6, 2024
First timers! Loved it! - Brenda was a fun and energetic tour guide. She was timely and had great communication leading up to the meeting spot.
It was our first time visiting this museum and we would not know where to start if she had not guided us! Many interesting facts we didn’t know. From rocks, dinosaur fossils, and mammals. We saw the Hope diamond and loved the intriguing story she shared surrounding it. It was a small tour of 8 people and the only way to go! Don’t go without a tour guide, you will be overwhelmed!
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Hope_b
Apr 14, 2024
Wonderful experience and tour! - Really enjoyed the tour and both museums! Our guide was very knowledgeable, providing the right amount of flexibility and commentary.
Review provided by Viator
Jowellw
Feb 26, 2024
Tours of Smithsonian Natural history and American history museums - Richard Robinson was our tour guide and we had a wonderful experience. The museum of natural history was truly fascinating and Richard was very insightful. The tour was well paced and the American History museum was also amazing!
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James_w
Feb 23, 2024
Museum of Natural History tour - Richard was excellent! We learned a lot and enjoyed all the galleries. The tour was well paced and informative.
Review provided by Viator
Marciaw883
Jan 19, 2024
Amazing tour! - Terrific tour! Amanda, our guide was wonderful. She knew the ins and outs. What a great way to see a lot of real estate in a short amount of time. She took us to the highlights. Had in-depth analysis. Knew where to go to see the highlights and must sees.
The American history museum really topped my expectations. I was expecting old, dusty, and just a look back at history. Instead, the museum comes alive! We loved the presidential gallery, the first ladies inaugural gowns, even Julia, Childs kitchen! Examining every day culture, history, and pop culture. I would highly recommend.
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Julianalu67
Aug 31, 2023
Such a Rich Experience! - Leigh was a phenomenal guide. So knowledgeable and enthusiastic. I wondered if I would appreciate this tour with my limited knowledge of art. The answer is YES! I learned so much about the history of art. Leigh explained how the culture of the periods influenced styles/techniques of so many artists/paintings. It was fascinating. We covered so much but the time flew. I would love to do it again. Such a beautiful museum. Highly recommend this tour!
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Route66cc
Jul 7, 2023
A visit to the Natural History Museum - I love the majesty of the building itself. There were lots of people there yes. However, it never felt like we in a mass such as a concert. My biggest suggestion is to always go to the left while everyone else seems to go right. (If there is an option.) Also, start at the farthest section from the front entrance. It will probably be less crowded.
We enjoyed the exhibits. We go to many museums around the world. This one did not disappoint. There are clean and large restroom facilities. There is seating in multiple places for the "just tired" or for little ones to take a break.
Also, as with all museums, the lighting is dim to protect the artifacts. Keep that in mind if you have vision limitations. Also, be aware that many small children may cross your path. Always be aware of the surroundings for safety. I
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Shajuj2022
Jun 25, 2023
Information packed! - Richard was an amazing tour guide and an even more amazing storyteller! We learned so much and the experience would not have been the same if we were just walking around on our own.
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