Duration
Open today
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Guided tour
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Discover pivotal moments in American history on a guided small-group tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
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Admire legendary artifacts like the original Star-Spangled Banner, Lincoln’s top hat, and Dorothy’s ruby slippers.
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Hear expert commentary that reveals the untold stories behind items like George Washington’s uniform and the Greensboro Lunch Counter.
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Enjoy an intimate tour experience with a small group limited to just 8 guests, allowing for deeper engagement and easier interaction with your guide.
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Prefer a personalized experience? Upgrade to a private tour with just your group, for a tailor-made journey through America’s past.
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Timed entry ticket
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Guided museum tour
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Professional guide
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Small-group tour (limited to 8 participants)
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Access to temporary exhibits
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Food and beverages
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Hotel pickup or drop-off
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Gratuities
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You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Explore the Smithsonian National Museum of American History on a 2.5-hour small-group tour led by an expert guide.
Getting started
Meet your guide at the designated point near the museum’s main entrance, where you’ll be welcomed and checked in. After a brief introduction and ticket validation, your guide will lead your group through security and into the museum to begin your journey.
What to expect
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
This renowned museum chronicles the story of the United States through iconic artifacts, tracing the nation’s evolution from its founding to colonial days, and now to the present. Your guide will highlight pivotal moments and objects that have shaped American culture and identity.
Features
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Star-Spangled Banner: View the original 15-star, 15-stripe flag that inspired the U.S. national anthem, a powerful symbol from the War of 1812.
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Greensboro Lunch Counter: Stand before the Woolworth’s counter where a 1960 sit-in sparked a nationwide movement for civil rights and desegregation.
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George Washington’s Uniform and Sword: See the actual uniform and battle sword worn by America’s first president during the Revolutionary War.
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Abraham Lincoln’s Top Hat: Encounter the top hat worn by Lincoln on the night of his assassination, a poignant piece of presidential history.
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Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers: Step into pop culture with the famous ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz, a beloved artifact of American cinema.
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What to bring
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Bring a valid photo ID that matches the name on your booking, as it may be requested at the entrance.
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Wear comfortable walking shoes, since the tour involves extended periods of standing and walking.
What's not allowed
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Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted inside the museum.
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Outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the museum.
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Pets are not permitted inside the museum.
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Sharp objects, firearms, and weapons are not allowed inside the museum.
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Flash photography, tripods, and filming equipment are not allowed inside the exhibition spaces.
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Any form of intoxication is strictly prohibited on the premises.
Accessibility
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The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, but it is stroller accessible.
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Registered service animals are allowed inside the museum.
Additional information
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The group size is limited to 8 participants.
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Children aged 18 and under must be accompanied by a supervising adult.
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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.
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Some rooms require quiet or restrict speaking. In these cases, your guide will explain the exhibits before entering those spaces.
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