Exploring America’s Founding Documents: Semi-Private National Archives Museum Tour in Washington, DC
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be able to walk and stand comfortably for two hours at a moderate pace.
Overview
Step inside the National Archives Museum in Washington, DC, for a semi-private, two-hour tour that unveils America’s founding documents. Discover the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and more with expert guides in an intimate setting.
National Archives Museum Tour – Semi-Private
2 hrs | SKIP-THE-LINE | Daily
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 2-hour journey through the National Archives, where history comes alive. With a small group of just six, explore iconic documents like the Declaration of Independence and the Emancipation Proclamation, guided by an expert. Experience the profound impact of these artifacts on America's story and legacy.
Book way in advance - we sell out
Rates
- Adult: - $95
- Youth: - $85 (Ages 10 - 17)
- Child: - $75 (9 and under)
Duration
- 1.5 - 2 hours
Meeting Point
- Corner of 9th St NW and Constitution Ave NW
About
- The National Archives will introduce you to the original paperwork that formed the United States of America.
- This semi-private, 1.5 - 2 hour museum tour will welcome up to eight people to come face to face with the seemingly humble documentation that gave birth to the most powerful nation in the world.
- This tour is in English.
Includes
Semi-Private Museum Tour "Semi-Private" Means Group Size Is Never More Than 8 Guests Maximum Professional Tour Historian Guide Duration 1.5 - 2 hours
Excludes
Tour price does NOT include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend UBER or Taxi) Tour price does NOT include gratuities (optional) Tour is NOT available for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair
Full Tour Description
The National Archives will introduce you to the original paperwork that formed the United States of America. This 1.5 - 2 hour semi-private guided tour will welcome up to 8 people to come face to face with the seemingly humble documentation that gave birth to the most powerful nation in the world.
Step through the doors of this majestic neoclassical building, considered a temple to American history. Follow your guide, starting at the National Archives Rotunda, to learn about the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution while standing in front of the perfectly-preserved documents from the 17th and 18th centuries. Alongside the Bill of Rights and the Federalist Papers, they all feature the signatures of world-famous statesmen like Alexander Hamilton. Next, in the Public Vaults Exhibits, letters written by presidents including George Washington and John F. Kennedy are on display. The United States’ turbulent racial past comes alive while learning about the Emancipation Proclamation, which helped end slavery in the 19th century. More recent papers, like a citation issued to civil rights activist Rosa Parks, illustrates how long these racial issues lasted. Finally, in the Rubenstein Gallery, examine even older documents like the Magna Carta of 1297. Although it was written well before the Americas were even discovered by Europeans, it heavily influenced many of the other artifacts you’ll see in the National Archives.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early to Meet Your Guide
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour starts at the designated meeting point at the bottom of the Constitution Avenue stairs to ensure a timely departure.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The tour involves walking through various museum galleries; sturdy, comfortable shoes will make your experience more enjoyable.
Bring a Valid Photo ID
You’ll need a photo ID or passport copy for security checks before entering the museum.
Pack Light to Pass Security Easily
Only handbags or small thin backpacks are allowed through security; large bags or suitcases are prohibited.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban squirrels often seen scurrying around the National Mall.
- Various migratory birds that frequent the landscaped grounds seasonally.
History
The National Archives was established in 1934 to preserve federal documents and opened to the public in 1935, housing some of the nation’s most treasured historical artifacts.
Conservation
The museum implements strict climate control and security measures to preserve documents long-term, minimizing visitor impact by limiting group sizes and bag policies.
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Adventure Hotspots in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating the museum’s extensive galleries with ease.
Light Jacket or Layered Clothing
The museum's interior can be cool; layering helps adjust to temperature changes.
fall specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated before or after the tour, though no drinks allowed inside the exhibits.
summer specific
Small Handbag or Thin Backpack
Required to comply with security restrictions limiting bag size inside the museum.