Museums

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Tours

Name: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Tours
Start: 2026-08-01T10:00:00
End: 2026-08-01T12:30:00
Location: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Duration

2 hrs 30 mins

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Guided tour

Enjoy a guided small-group tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, with timed entry and an expert English-speaking guide.

See legendary exhibits like the Nation’s T. Rex, the Hope Diamond, Egyptian mummies, and more up close.

Benefit from expert storytelling as your professional guide highlights the museum’s 126 million must-see wonders.

Tour in an intimate group of no more than 8 guests for a more engaging and personal experience.

Prefer a more tailored experience? Upgrade to a private tour for a customized itinerary, which also allows wheelchair access.

Timed entry ticket

Guided museum tour

Professional guide

Small-group tour (limited to 8 participants)

Access to temporary exhibits

Food and beverages

Hotel pickup or drop-off

Gratuities

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Explore the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in a small group with an expert guide on this 2.5-hour tour.

Getting started

Meet your guide at the large stairs at the Madison Drive NW entrance, facing the National Mall. After a quick check-in and ticket validation, your guide will introduce the day’s highlights before leading your group inside.

What to expect

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of natural wonders, spanning everything from prehistoric giants to rare gemstones. Your guide will navigate the vast exhibits, sharing insights and stories that bring each display to life.

Features

The Nation’s T. Rex: Encounter one of the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeletons ever discovered, a centerpiece of the museum’s fossil collection.

The Hope Diamond & Star of Asia Sapphire: View the legendary 45.52-carat Hope Diamond and the remarkable Star of Asia Sapphire, both celebrated for their size and storied pasts.

Henry the Elephant: Meet the life-sized African elephant that has welcomed visitors for over 60 years, symbolizing the museum’s dedication to wildlife.

Egyptian Mummies: Explore authentic Egyptian mummies and learn about ancient burial practices through modern forensic reconstructions.

Arctic Narwhal: Discover the narwhal, known as the “unicorn of the sea,” and learn how its unique tusk helps it survive in Arctic waters.

What to bring

Carry a valid photo ID that matches the name on your booking, as it may be requested at the entrance.

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves extended periods of standing and walking.

What's not allowed

Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted inside the museum.

Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the museum.

Pets are not permitted inside the museum.

Sharp objects, firearms, and weapons are strictly prohibited.

Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment are not allowed inside the exhibition spaces.

Any form of intoxication is strictly prohibited on the premises.

Accessibility

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

The experience is stroller accessible.

Registered service animals are allowed inside the museum.

Additional information

The group size is limited to 8 participants, with a minimum of 2 required to run the tour.

If the minimum is not met, the tour will be canceled and you will receive either a full refund or the option to reschedule.

The museum may close without prior notice. If opening is delayed by more than one hour from your scheduled tour time, you will be offered an alternative date.

Some rooms require quiet or restrict speaking. In these cases, your guide will share information about the exhibits before entering those spaces.