Explore Washington DC’s Smithsonian Natural History and Air & Space Museums on a Private Guided Tour
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical condition to comfortably stand and walk through museum halls for extended periods.
Overview
Discover the wonders of Earth’s natural history and humanity’s leap into space on a private combined tour of Washington, D.C.’s Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and Air & Space Museum. Experience iconic artifacts and expert insight on this 5.5-hour immersive journey.
Combo: Smithsonian Natural History + Air & Space Museum Tour – Private
5.5 hrs | Daily | Past & Future | Most Popular Combo!
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Washington, D.C.'s most iconic museums with a private tour that brings history and innovation to life. Explore the wonders of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum, guided by experts who unveil extraordinary artifacts and captivating stories.
Book way in advance - we sell out
Rates
- Adult: - $159 - $485
- Youth: - $159 (Ages 10 - 17)
- Child: - $139 (9 and under)
Duration
- 5 - 5.5 hours (including a lunch break)
Meeting Point
- 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.
About
- Take a combo tour of the Smithsonian’s most iconic museums on this convenient and engaging experience.
- This 5 to 5.5 hour private combo museum tour, is your chance to experience the two most popular museums in Washington DC with the help of our expert guides navigating the crowds! Dinosaurs to diamonds, planes, planets and spacesuits; our guides have the stories to make them come alive.
- This tour is in English.
Includes
Private Museum Tour Professional Tour Guide Exclusively For You Duration 5 - 5.5 Hours (Including Lunch Break) Wheelchair Friendly
Excludes
Tour price does NOT include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend UBER or Taxi) Tour price does NOT include gratuities (optional)
Full Tour Description
This is your chance to experience the two most popular museums in Washington DC with the help of our expert guides navigating the crowds! 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!). From the most famous single artifact in the Smithsonian collection — the (supposedly) cursed Hope Diamond — to the recently revealed renovated Fossil Hall with Mastodon, T-Rex, and Diplodocus looming over the path, your inner child will remind you of how fascinating the natural world’s mysteries are. After a break to recharge, cross the famous National Mall to the Smithsonian Air & Space museum. Currently undergoing its own renovation, there is still plenty to see! Starting with a family in Ohio solving a problem not even Leonardo DaVinci could. We speak, of course, of the Wright Brothers who launched the world to literal new heights. The original Wright Flyer from 1903 gets its own exhibition gallery to set the stage for what comes after. From the first military flyer in 1909 (also a Wright Bros. creation) to the golden age of setting records and commercial aviation, imagine the guts it took to trust your life to this novel technology. Then head to the even more intimidating exploits in the space exhibits. Where you view some of the actual artifacts man set out to conquer the vast unknown in an inhospitable environment and then back to Earth’s warm embrace. But the highest heights are those of imagination that inspire us to the risk so much. Your guide will also talk about two of the most famous works of science fiction that inspire scientists and technology at the Starship Enterprise and Star Wars X-Wing! Experience the two unforgettable museums with one unrivaled experience.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Smooth Check-In
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts at the Madison Drive NW entrance to ensure a timely and stress-free beginning.
Wear Comfortable Footwear
Expect moderate walking between exhibits and museums; sturdy, comfortable shoes will keep you comfortable throughout the 5.5-hour tour.
Travel Light
Only small bags or slim backpacks are allowed inside the museums—avoid large bags to pass security with ease.
Prepare for Changing Exhibits
The Air & Space Museum is currently undergoing renovations; expect some temporary exhibit closures, but the tour adapts to show the best available displays.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Taxidermied African elephant named Henry at Natural History Museum
- Native birds depicted and preserved in countless dioramas within the Natural History exhibits
History
Established in the early 20th century, the Smithsonian museums collectively preserve over 250 million artifacts showcasing Earth’s natural and human history.
Conservation
Both museums actively participate in research and conservation, ensuring sustainable preservation of artifacts and educational outreach.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Supports prolonged walking and standing on museum floors.
Weather-Appropriate Layered Clothing
D.C. weather can vary; layers keep you comfortable indoors and outdoors on the National Mall.
Small Backpack or Purse
Meets security requirements and holds personal items without being cumbersome.
Photo ID or Passport
Required for check-in and to verify your booking with the tour guide.