Discover the captivating history of America at the National Archives and Museum of American History in Washington, DC. This 2-hour guided tour takes visitors on a journey through some of the nation’s most iconic documents and artifacts. From the Declaration of Independence to Abraham Lincoln’s hat, you’ll uncover the stories that shaped the country. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious, this immersive experience promises to leave you intrigued and eager to explore further.
Key Points
- This guided tour covers the National Archives and Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, DC.
- Visitors can view the original Declaration of Independence and Constitution, as well as George Washington’s uniform and Abraham Lincoln’s hat.
- The tour lasts 2 hours, with 45 minutes spent at the National Archives and 75 minutes at the Museum of American History.
- The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who provides live commentary and maintains a small group size of up to 6 participants.
- The tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 30 reviews, with high praise for the guide’s expertise and the tour’s value for money.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour offers a 2-hour experience, priced from £61.08 per person.
A 2-hour experience priced from £61.08 per person.
It’s likely to sell out, so visitors should reserve their spot in advance.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, there’s flexibility. Travelers can also opt for a "reserve now, pay later" option.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users, and the small group size is limited to 6 participants.
Guests will explore the National Archives and National Museum of American History with a live guide, taking in historic artifacts like the Declaration of Independence and Abraham Lincoln’s hat.
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Itinerary and Highlights
The tour starts at the National Archives, where participants spend 45 minutes exploring the iconic building and viewing the original Declaration of Independence and Constitution.
Next, the group heads to the Smithsonian National Museum of American History for a 75-minute guided tour.
The highlights include:
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George Washington’s uniform
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Abraham Lincoln’s iconic hat
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The flag that inspired the national anthem
Along the way, the tour also visits the National Portrait Gallery, providing a comprehensive exploration of American history and culture.
Starting Location and Duration
Starting at the Unscriped Welcome Center, 400 7th Street NW, the tour commences and covers the National Archives and Smithsonian National Museum of American History over the course of 2 hours.
The first 45 minutes are spent at the National Archives, exploring iconic documents like the Declaration of Independence and Constitution.
After, the tour moves to the Museum of American History for 75 minutes, showcasing highlights such as George Washington’s uniform and Abraham Lincoln’s hat.
Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide leads the small group of up to 6 participants through these historic sites.
Guided Tour Experience
Although led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, with a small group size limited to 6 participants.
The guided experience includes:
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45 minutes at the National Archives to view the original Declaration of Independence and Constitution.
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75 minutes at the National Museum of American History, exploring artifacts like George Washington’s uniform and Abraham Lincoln’s iconic hat.
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Live commentary from the guide, providing historical context and insider knowledge throughout the tour.
The tour is conducted in English and is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to explore these iconic landmarks with ease.
More Great Tours NearbyAccessibility and Group Size
With a small group size limited to 6 participants, the guided tour maintains an intimate atmosphere. This allows for personalized attention from the live English-speaking guide.
The tour is also wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors. You’ll explore the historic National Mall, taking in views of iconic landmarks like the Washington Monument and U.S. Capitol.
Whether you’re a history buff or seeking an immersive cultural experience, this tour provides an accessible and engaging way to discover the treasures of the National Archives and National Museum of American History.
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Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customers rave about the exceptional quality of this guided tour, awarding it an impressive 4.8 out of 5 overall rating based on 30 reviews.
Customers rave about the exceptional quality of this guided tour, awarding it an impressive 4.8 out of 5 overall rating based on 30 reviews.
The tour guide’s expertise and knowledge earn a perfect 5/5 score, with visitors praising their engaging storytelling and ability to bring history to life.
Plus, the tour offers great value for money, rated 4.8/5 by participants.
Key highlights include:
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Knowledgeable guide who captivates with historic details
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Seamless organization and smooth flow of the tour
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Opportunity to see iconic American artifacts and landmarks
Important Information and What to Bring
The tour begins at the Unscripted Welcome Center located at 400 7th Street NW.
Visitors should dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes to explore the historic National Mall. The tour is wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility needs can fully participate.
Gratuity is included in the tour price, so there’s no need to worry about tipping the knowledgeable guide. With a maximum group size of 6, this intimate experience allows for personalized attention.
Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, making it easy to secure their place on this popular tour.
Exploring the National Mall
As visitors make their way to the Unscripted Welcome Center, they’ll embark on a captivating journey through the iconic National Mall.
This expansive green space is home to some of the nation’s most renowned monuments and memorials. Highlights include:
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The towering Washington Monument, a striking obelisk that offers sweeping views of the city.
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The reflecting pool, where visitors can admire the Lincoln Memorial and its stunning sculpture of the 16th president.
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The U.S. Capitol building, the iconic seat of the federal government and a true architectural marvel.
This tour provides the perfect opportunity to explore the heart of Washington, DC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Photo Opportunities During the Tour?
Yes, there are excellent photo opportunities throughout the tour. Visitors can capture images of the iconic buildings, historic artifacts, and scenic views along the National Mall.
Do the Tour Guides Provide Commentary in Other Languages?
The tour guides provide commentary in English only. They don’t offer translations or audio guides in other languages. However, the company may be able to accommodate special requests for private tours with multi-lingual guides if arranged in advance.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Exploring the Museums?
The tour allocates 45 minutes at the National Archives and 75 minutes at the National Museum of American History, allowing ample time to explore the highlights and artifacts at each museum.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour duration is set at 2 hours, but there’s no option to extend it. However, you’re free to explore the museums further on your own after the guided portion concludes.
Can We Purchase Souvenirs at the Tour End Point?
Yes, you can purchase souvenirs at the end of the tour. The National Museum of American History has a gift shop where visitors can find a variety of memorabilia and items related to the museum’s exhibits.
The Sum Up
The Washington, DC: National Archives & Museum of American History tour offers an immersive experience to explore pivotal moments in American history. Visitors can view iconic documents and artifacts while benefiting from the expertise of a knowledgeable guide. With a convenient starting location and small group setting, this tour is an excellent way to explore the rich tapestry of the nation’s past. After the tour, visitors can further explore the National Mall and its many landmarks.
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