Smithsonian Natural History + American History Semi-Private Tour

Uncover the captivating stories of the past on this Smithsonian semi-private tour. You’ll skip the lines and explore the natural wonders of the Dinosaur Hall and the iconic Star-Spangled Banner at the American History Museum. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll explore the rich tapestry of history and science, all while enjoying a personalized experience. Get ready to be transported through time and leave with a deeper appreciation for these renowned Smithsonian institutions.

Key Points

• This semi-private guided tour explores the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and National Museum of American History over 5.5 hours with skip-the-line access.
• The tour is led by a professional guide and accommodates a maximum of 8 guests for a personalized experience.
• Hotel pickup or drop-off, gratuities, and cancellation flexibility up to 24 hours before the tour are included.
• The tour requires a moderate fitness level, is stroller accessible but not wheelchair accessible.
• Highlights include dinosaur fossils, cultural artifacts, and iconic American history exhibits like the original Star-Spangled Banner.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The Smithsonian Natural History Tour offers a semi-private guided experience through the renowned Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and National Museum of American History.

With a badge of excellence and a 100% recommendation rate, this 5.5-hour tour is perfect for first-time visitors. The tour provides skip-the-line access to the exhibits, allowing guests to maximize their time.

The group size is limited to 8 guests, ensuring a personalized experience. Guests can expect a professional tour guide and the flexibility of hotel pickup or drop-off.

The tour is easily accessible by stroller, though moderate physical fitness is required.

What’s Included

A professional tour guide accompanies guests throughout the Smithsonian Natural History Tour.

The tour includes hotel pickup or drop-off and all gratuities. Visitors can cancel their reservations up to 24 hours before the tour with no penalties.

The tour price varies based on group size, starting from $174.90 per person. Guests will have skip-the-line access to the exhibits, allowing them to maximize their time exploring the museums.

The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, with a maximum group size of 8 people, making it a semi-private experience perfect for first-time visitors to Washington, D.C.

Meeting and End Point

Guests meet the guide at the Madison Drive NW entrance of the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, located at 1010 Madison Dr NW, Washington, DC 20004.

The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am. At the end of the tour, guests return to the same meeting point.

The tour covers the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of American History, with skip-the-line access to the exhibits.

The total duration of the tour is approximately 5.5 hours. Guests must provide a mobile phone number, including the country code, when booking, as it’s required for the tour.

Accessibility and Requirements

Although the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it is stroller accessible. A moderate physical fitness level is required, as the tour involves walking through the museums. Guests must provide their mobile phone number, including the country code, when booking. A minimum of 2 guests is required for the tour to run.

Accessibility Requirement	Details
Wheelchair Access	Not Accessible
Stroller Access	Accessible
Physical Fitness Level	Moderate
Mobile Phone Number	Required
Minimum Group Size	2 Guests

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History is a renowned institution that houses an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the wonders of the natural world.

Visitors can explore everything from dinosaur fossils and gemstones to cultural artifacts and interactive displays. The museum’s diverse exhibits cover topics like anthropology, biology, geology, and paleontology, offering a comprehensive look at the Earth’s history and its inhabitants.

With skip-the-line access, tour-goers can dive straight into the museum’s highlights, guided by a knowledgeable professional who can provide valuable insights and context throughout the experience.

National Museum of American History

Along With the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, the tour also includes a visit to the National Museum of American History.

This museum chronicles the nation’s history, showcasing iconic artifacts like the original Star-Spangled Banner flag and the desk where Abraham Lincoln penned the Emancipation Proclamation.

Guests will skip the lines and explore the museum’s diverse exhibitions, which cover topics ranging from the American presidency to the history of transportation.

With a maximum group size of 8, this semi-private tour provides an intimate and informative experience led by a professional guide.

Tour Itinerary

After meeting the guide at the Madison Drive NW entrance of the Museum of Natural History, the tour begins with a visit to the museum’s renowned exhibits.

Guests explore the impressive dinosaur skeletons, intricate dioramas, and interactive displays showcasing the natural world.

The group then moves on to the National Museum of American History, where they’ll discover the country’s rich cultural heritage through exhibits on American presidents, the Star-Spangled Banner, and the evolution of American transportation.

Throughout the tour, the guide provides insightful commentary and allows ample time for questions, ensuring an engaging and informative experience.

Additional Considerations

Visitors should keep in mind that the Smithsonian museums may experience occasional closures or delays, in which case the tour provider will offer suitable alternatives.

While skip-the-line access is included, increased security measures may still result in lines. Plus, some areas within the museums may have restricted speaking, so guides will provide information before entering.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. A moderate physical fitness level is required. Guests must provide a mobile phone number (including country code) for booking, and only small bags are permitted.

• Increased security may lead to lines despite skip-the-line
• Some museum areas have speaking restrictions
• Not wheelchair accessible, but stroller accessible

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Exhibits Will We See During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify the exact number of exhibits you’ll see. However, it covers two major Smithsonian museums – the Museum of Natural History and the National Museum of American History – so you’ll likely explore a wide variety of exhibits during the 5.5-hour experience.

Can We Take Photos Inside the Museums?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed to take photos inside the Smithsonian museums. However, some restricted areas may prohibit photography. The tour guide will provide guidance on where photography is permitted during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Guests can inquire with the tour provider about extending the duration to explore the museums in more depth or add additional stops to the itinerary.

Do the Museums Have On-Site Dining Options?

The museums have several on-site dining options, including cafes and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a quick snack or a sit-down meal during their visit to refuel and recharge before continuing their exploration of the exhibits.

Is There an Age Limit for the Tour Participants?

There is no specified age limit for this tour. Participants of all ages are welcome, but the tour may not be suitable for young children as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness and attention span. Families with children are encouraged to check with the tour provider.

Sum Up

The Smithsonian Natural History and American History Semi-Private Tour offers a comprehensive and efficient exploration of two iconic Washington, D.C. museums. With skip-the-line access, a knowledgeable guide, and personalized attention, guests can enjoy captivating exhibits, from dinosaur fossils to the original Star-Spangled Banner. This 5.5-hour tour is an ideal choice for history and nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable and hassle-free museum experience.