Unlocking History: Private Tour of Washington D.C.’s National Archives and Portrait Gallery
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for visitors with moderate physical fitness; requires standing and walking indoors on flat, accessible surfaces.
Overview
Explore the heart of American history on a private 5.5-hour tour of Washington, D.C.'s National Archives Museum and National Portrait Gallery. Stand before founding documents and iconic portraits that shaped the nation’s story.
Combo: National Archives Museum + National Portrait Gallery Tour – Private
5.5 hrs | Daily!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 5.5-hour private tour through Washington, D.C.'s National Archives and National Portrait Gallery. Discover the foundational documents of American democracy, including the Declaration of Independence and a rare Magna Carta. Marvel at iconic portraits, including George Washington and Barack Obama, gaining profound insights into the nation's history and identity.
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
- Corner of 9th St NW and Constitution Ave NW
About
- Come face to face with history at this combo tour, mixing the best of the National Archives with the faces behind the names & history at the National Portrait Gallery.
- This private, 5 to 5.5-hour museum combo tour will allow you to explore these two Washington DC icons, maximizing your time in the American capital city.
- This tour is in English.
Includes
Private Walking Tour & Museum Tour Professional Tour Guide Exclusively For You Duration 5 - 5.5 Hours (Including Lunch Break) Tour Will Run, Rain Or Shine
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
The best way to understand the who and the what of the United States of America! Start with the original handwritten “Charters of Freedom” housed in their spectacular Rotunda. Your guide will narrate the extraordinary circumstances that brought this nation into existence. Surrounded by documents and paintings giving depth and nuance to the founding period, no trip to the US Capital city is complete without a visit to the National Archives. But at Babylon we take it a step farther. In the Rubenstein Gallery, go even further to the philosophical foundations by viewing a 1297 copy of the Magna Carta. You will be guided around the room as the concept of citizenship, what it means and who is included evolves from the declaration that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights”.
After a break to ponder the complexity of history (and grab a bite) your guide will lead you to the dual exhibition space of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Inside the local Washingtonians favorite Smithsonian space you’ll wander hallways that seamlessly flow between the two collections surrounding one of the most relaxing spaces in downtown Washington DC, the Kogard Courtyard. Your guide will take you to see the famous Presidential Portrait Gallery and you’ll hear stories of other famous Americans as you view their portraits in painting, sculpture, and video form. Make your way over to the Luce Center of the American Art portion and get a chance to peek inside the labs of the Lunder Conservation Center! Some of the most iconic figures in Art and History pop up in the most unexpected places in this criminally overlooked Smithsonian!
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for a Smooth Start
Plan to arrive at least 10 minutes before the tour departure to meet your guide at Constitution Avenue’s large staircase.
Bring Valid Photo ID
Carry a government-issued photo ID or passport copy for entry to the National Archives and Portrait Gallery.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect moderate walking and standing during the tour, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must.
Travel Light
Only small handbags or slim backpacks are allowed inside; avoid bringing large bags or suitcases to breeze through security.
Local Insights
Wildlife
History
The National Archives was established in 1934 to preserve foundational American documents, while the Portrait Gallery houses the country's largest collection of portraits of prominent Americans.
Conservation
Both museums emphasize sustainable visitor practices and have introduced digital guides to reduce printed materials and visitor impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary for walking and standing during the museum tours.
Photo ID or Passport
Required for entry to the National Archives and Portrait Gallery.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Dress in layers to stay comfortable indoors and outdoors during walking portions.
Small Bag or Backpack
Only small bags are allowed inside; helps comply with security requirements.