American History Tour: Smithsonian & Archives

Explore DC’s hidden gems with skip-the-line access, breathtaking views, and rich history on this guided tour of iconic landmarks.

Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • National Museum of American History - Instead of wandering without direction, visitors will follow a thoughtfully designed narrative that makes history engaging, accessible, and relevant.
    Visitors will see:
  • Star-Spangled Banner: The original flag that inspired the U.S. national anthem during the War of 1812.
  • Jefferson’s Writing Desk: The…
What's Included
  • Entrance & Guided Tour of American History Museum
  • Walking Tour with Local Tour Guide
  • Skip the Line Access into the National Archives
What's Not Included
  • Gratuity
Additional Information

Embark on a 3-hour guided walking tour and immerse yourself in 250 years of American history, led by a knowledgeable local historian and professional tour guide.
Explore the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, where you’ll delve into significant events from the American Revolution through the 20th century and beyond. Instead of wandering…

Location
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Constitution Avenue Northwest
Meet your guide OUTSIDE the American History Museum, Constitution Ave. (note there is a National Mall entrance but that is the other side!) We are not affiliated with the information desk. Please be sure to find your DC by Foot guide specifically or contact us directly at the phone numbers provided.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(22 Ratings)
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Michelle_c
Jul 18, 2026
American history museum is not worth visiting - Our tour guide was excellent, very friendly and knowledgeable. She did the best with what she had to work with. Unfortunately, the American history museum was a disappointment. I don’t think the museum conveys the story of American history-the absence of the origins of our country and the founding was shocking. It should be the backbone and foundation of the experience - but instead the museum was something that didn’t flow-I don’t think the museum curators are American or maybe they don’t have an understanding or appreciation of American history. I wanted my son to have what he learned in his American history class come to life. I don’t think that is too much to expect from the Smithsonian. I hope this feedback can get back to museum leadership and its curators. America has a beautiful and sometimes not beautiful history-but tell the story remembering the people here are proud of their heritage and should leave the AMERICAN history museum with pride and appreciation of where our country started, how far its come, what our country has meant to the world and the bright future we have ahead.
Review provided by Viator
Nathan_h
Jul 10, 2026
Vicky’s the best! - I took the tour with Vicky and she was awesome! Both tours were the perfect balance of her narrative yet flexibility for what each tourist wanted to see - which is not what I am used to with a tour guide. I was particularly impressed by her obvious love for both the United States as well as the history she took us through; she has certainly perfected her craft. I hope I get to tour with her on my next visit to Washington! P. S. - Make sure you have cash ready for the end of the tour! You will want to leave her a great tip.
Review provided by Viator
Laura_r
Jul 6, 2026
Good experience … - Good sampling of the museums with knowledgeable tour guide .. a bit pricey though. May be best to book direct versus using a third party.
Review provided by Viator
Ronald_m
Jul 2, 2026
Cool Katherine - This walking tour was great. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and made the event very personal and she has a great personality y'all. She knew her way around the venues which helped to give us time to enjoy the highlights without feeling rushed. I would recommend this for anyone who wants to see important items from America's past. Also a good tour on a hot or rainy day because you are inside for almost all of it.
Review provided by Viator
Maryjane_g
Jun 6, 2026
Awesome! - Katherine was great! Hilarious, great storyteller and historian. Learned a lot and had a wonderful time!!
Review provided by Viator
Kathi_h
May 29, 2026
Becca did a grest job! She is extremely knowledgeable and personable. I learned so much and really enjoyed the tour! - It was an excellent experience. I learned so I much and am awestruck at the details I learned. It was great.
Review provided by Viator
Kendra_f
May 24, 2026
Great tour guide - She was fun, engaging and hit the hi-lights of each museum. Pointed out things we might have missed and kept a good pace.
Review provided by Viator
Hookedinaf
May 12, 2026
Great tour and insider access - We loved this for with access to the Rotunda, Katherine our guide was a wealth of information. We saw a lot and learnt a lot definitely recommend this tour for your DC itinerary
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Todd_l
Jul 24, 2026
I was lucky enough to... - I was lucky enough to have a private tour. Colin was incredibly knowledgeable about so many different things.
Review provided by Viator
Linda_s
Jul 11, 2026
Great tour - Sooo much to see in a short time, but great information! Would have liked more time at History museum.
Review provided by Viator
From $75
up to 5 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).