Washington, D.C. Guide

Washington D.C. Museum Tours

Explore Smithsonian museums - all FREE world-class collections!

94+ tours
From $0
2-8 hours
Washington D.C. Museum Tours

Discover Washington D.C.'s incredible museums - world's largest museum complex, all FREE! Museum tours explore Smithsonian institutions including Air & Space (most visited!), Natural History (Hope Diamond!), American History, African American History & Culture, National Gallery of Art, Holocaust Memorial Museum, and more. Experience iconic artifacts (Wright Brothers plane, Apollo 11, dinosaurs!), art masterpieces, interactive exhibits, and American cultural heritage. Tours include skip-the-line tips, guided experiences, and curator insights. Learn about collections, history, and significance. It's museum paradise!

Featured Museum Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for museum tours in Washington, D.C.

National Mall Night Tour with 10 Stops, Capitol or Museum Options
💸Special Offer
$68From $64.6
Free Cancellation

Experience Washington DC lit up at night during this 3-Hour Guided Night Tour of the National Mall and Monuments. Make your way through the city at night via temperature-controlled coach bus, learning about sites you pass along the way. Travelers will have a chance to stop at 10 top sites for photos including the White House, US Capitol, MLK Jr Memorial, WWII Memorial, Vietnam War Memorial, & more. Enjoy the views as your route passes by 20+ additional sites such as Washington Monument, Arlington Cemetery, and many of the Smithsonians. Tour Stops: • National Archives • The U.S. Capitol • White House • Lincoln Memorial • WWII Memorial • MLK Memorial • Korean War Memorial • Lincoln Memorial • Vietnam Memorial • Vietnam Women Memorial • USMC Memorial **In December, see the holiday lights outside the White House, US Capitol, Canadian Embassy, Willard Hotel *Travelers may upgrade to include Tickets to the Washington Monument, Air & Space Museum, African American Museum, or US Capitol.

4.6(4,834)
3h
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Smithsonian Highlights with National Air & Space Museum Entry
💸Special Offer
$79From $67.15
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

See the best of the Smithsonian Museums on a 3-hour guided tour of the highlights of the American History, Natural History, and Air and Space Museums. Includes Reserved Entry to the Air and Space Museum! The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum complex with 21 museums and miliions of objects! The Natural History, Air and Space, and American History Museums are 3 of the most popular, often referred to as the Big 3. Each of these museums can be overwhelming so we put together a highlights tour. Our expert guide will take you through each of the museums and showcase all of the "must see" items in each. Including: Lincoln's Top Hat, Dorothy's Ruby Slippers, the Cursed Hope Diamond, iconic Dinosaur fossils, the Original Wright Flyer, and artifacts from the Apollo 11 lunar mission! Note that there is walking between the museums for a total of roughly 1 mile.

4.8(293)
3h
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Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket
From $34.99
Free Cancellation

The Impact of the Bible Floor Discover the Bible’s global influence in areas like film, music, literature, fashion, and government. Explore the history of the Bible in America, from the first settlers to the twenty-first century, exploring the profound and sometimes complicated impact of this book on American culture. The Stories of the Bible Floor Walk through the stories of the Hebrew Bible in the Hebrew Bible Experience, immerse yourself in the World of Jesus of Nazareth, and listen to the story of how the followers of Jesus became a thriving community in the New Testament Theater. The History of the Bible Floor Discover the Bible’s history, from handwritten scrolls to mobile devices, as it was embraced by many communities with different traditions!

4.5(232)
3h
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Smithsonian Museum of Natural History - Exclusive Guided Tour
💸Special Offer
$95.4From $89.67
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Join a 2 hour exclusive guided tour of the National Museum of Natural History, featuring rare marvels from around the world. The tour will lead you through the minerals, mammals, and mummies that have been wowing visitors for over a century.

5.0(443)
2h
View Details
Guided African American History Tour with Reserved Museum Entry
From $89
Free Cancellation

Go back in time to some of the most iconic moments from the civil rights movement with this fascinating African American history tour of Washington DC Often at the epicenter of the activism surrounding civil and black rights in America, the country’s capital holds the key to some of history’s most captivating moments. From the most famous to lesser-known but equally significant sites, your tour guide will paint a picture of the city from the African American perspective. You’ll be picked up at the U.S. Navy memorial with stops at momentous monuments such as the Emancipation Statue, Howard Theatre, and vibrant black communities. Feel the weight of the world on your shoulders as you stand where Martin Luther King did when he roused audiences with his legendary ‘I have a dream,’ address. One of the most comprehensive African American history tours in DC, you’ll also get tickets included to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, where the the tour ends.

4.7(1,180)
3h 30m
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The National Gallery of Art DC - Exclusive Guided Museum Tour
💸Special Offer
$95.4From $89.67
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This 2.5 hour exclusive guided museum tour will show you the world’s most iconic artists inside two extraordinary buildings. The National Gallery of Art in Washington DC is a world-class museum housing an incredible timeline of Western Art from the old masters of the Renaissance to the quintessential personalities of the 20th Century. Raphael, Rembrandt, Renoir, Picasso, and Rothko are just a handful of artist on view (as well as Vigee le Brun, Cassatt, and O’Keeffe). Take excursion through the changes of history as told by magnificent works of art - money, power, war, hope, and triumph. From the intimacy of a da Vinci portrait to sweep of a Monet to the bold strokes of a Kandinsky, you will be dazzled by the vast holdings and the stories that accompany them. You’ll delight over familiar names and hidden gems while our passionate guides navigate you through notable highlights of technique and artwork from over the past seven centuries.

5.0(166)
2h 30m
View Details
Capitol Combo: U.S. Capitol + Capitol Museum or Library Congress
From $79
Free Cancellation

Get your chance to discover the famed Capitol Hill with an experienced personal guide who will walk with you, detailing the historical facts related to each building and landmark. In this walking tour, you’ll explore the seat of the legislative and judicial branches of the US Government and its supporting facilities, collectively known as Capitol Hill. During the tour, travelers will be able to visit inside the U.S. Capitol Building. Entry inside the Library of Congress or Capitol Museum will also be available during checkout.

4.3(294)
2h 1m
View Details
The Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum Exclusive Guided Tour
💸Special Offer
$95.4From $89.67
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

The 2.5 hour exclusive guided museum tour will introduce you to the history of flight in the United States that eventually landed a man on the moon. Take one giant leap into the unique collection at the National Air and Space Museum, covering the United States’ world famous space program. Highlights generally include (as long as not on loan or being restored): -1903 Wright Flyer -1909 Wright Military Flyer -Spirit of St. Louis -Jackie Cochran T-38 Talon -Alan Shepard space suit -Freedom 7 capsule -Neil Armstrong space suit -Apollo 11 Columbia capsule -Filming model of Star Trek Enterprise -Filming model of Star Wars X-Wing

4.9(214)
2h 30m
View Details
Monuments of DC Tour with Washington Monument or Museum Tickets
From $59
Free Cancellation

See Washington DC’s iconic monuments in a single morning on a Guided Morning Sightseeing Bus & Walking Tour with an experienced guide. Pass by over 20+ sites including National Archives, Freedom Plaza, Jefferson Memorial and stop for photos outside top locations including the White House, US Capitol, MLK Memorial, and more. Hear insider stories about DC’s politicians and historic figures as you explore their moving war memorials, Presidential sites and government buildings, and get the perfect introduction to America’s capital city. Tours will conclude at the Washington Monument where travelers will be provided Admission Tickets for self-guided entry into the attraction. Many tours are offered of the various monuments and landmarks of the nation's capital but very few include the Washington Monument. Though you can view it by riding by on a regular tour, this tour offers you a unique chance to get a peek inside and climb to the top of the structure.

4.0(39)
5h
View Details
Smithsonian Museum of American History Exclusive Guided Tour
💸Special Offer
$95.4From $89.67
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Join this 2.5 hour exclusive guided tour of the National Museum of American History to learn about the relatively short but immensely rich history of the United States of America. Our passionate guides will take you to some of the most captivating pieces on display at this one of a kind gallery.

4.9(245)
2h 30m
View Details
Smithsonian Museum of Natural History Guided Tour
From $75
Free Cancellation

Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History during a 2-hour guided tour and expertly explore one of the largest natural history collections in the world. Your tour guide will be available to answer any question you have.

3.4(28)
2h
View Details
Smithsonian Air & Space Museum Guided Tour Semi-Private 8ppl Max
💸Special Offer
$95.4From $89.67
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

The 2.5 hour semi-private (8 Guest Maximum) guided museum tour will introduce visitors to the history of flight in the United States that eventually landed a man on the moon. Take one giant leap into the unique collection at the National Air and Space Museum, covering the United States’ world famous space program. Highlights generally include (as long as not on loan or being restored): -1903 Wright Flyer -1909 Wright Military Flyer -Spirit of St. Louis -Jackie Cochran T-38 Talon -Alan Shepard space suit -Freedom 7 capsule -Neil Armstrong space suit -Apollo 11 Columbia capsule -Filming model of Star Trek Enterprise -Filming model of Star Wars X-Wing

4.9(154)
2h 30m
View Details
Smithsonian Museum of Natural History Small Group Tour: 8ppl Max
💸Special Offer
$95.4From $89.67
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Join a 2 hour small group guided tour of the National Museum of Natural History, featuring rare marvels from around the world. The tour, which welcomes up to 8 guests, will lead you through the minerals, mammals, and mummies that have been wowing visitors for over a century.

4.9(177)
2h
View Details
Smithsonian Museum of American History Semi-Private 8ppl Max
💸Special Offer
$95.4From $89.67
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Join this 2.5 hour semi-private (8 Guest Maximum) guided tour of the National Museum of American History to learn about the relatively short but immensely rich history of the United States of America. Our passionate guides will take a small group of up to 8 guests to some of the most captivating pieces on display at this one-of-a-kind gallery.

4.9(135)
2h 30m
View Details
DC Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum - Exclusive Guided Tour
💸Special Offer
$95.4From $89.67
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Two of Washington’s most iconic museums take up residence in the historical Old Patent Office Building, where history and art collide. Visit the National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum on a 2.5 hour exclusive tour and discover the best of American-made works all under one roof.

5.0(24)
2h 30m
View Details

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Why Choose Museum Tours in Washington, D.C.?

All FREE

World-class Smithsonian museums - no admission fee!

Air & Space

Most visited museum in world - Wright Brothers, Apollo 11!

Hope Diamond

See famous Hope Diamond at Natural History Museum!

19 Museums

Smithsonian has 19 museums/galleries - incredible variety!

Types of Museum Tours in Washington, D.C.

Air & Space Tour

Most popular Smithsonian - aviation and space.

2-3 hoursWright BrothersApollo 11FreeMost popular

Natural History

Hope Diamond, dinosaurs, mammals.

2-3 hoursHope DiamondDinosaursFreeFamilies

Multi-Museum Day

Visit 2-3 Smithsonians in one day.

6-8 hoursMultiple museumsComprehensiveFreeFull day

American History

Star-Spangled Banner, First Ladies, Americana.

2-3 hoursArtifactsHistoryFreePatriotic

What to Expect on Your Washington D.C. Museum Tours

Duration

Each museum: 2-3 hours. Multi-museum day: 6-8 hours. Plan accordingly!

Air & Space

Wright Brothers 1903 Flyer, Spirit of St. Louis, Apollo 11 - iconic!

Natural History

Hope Diamond, dinosaurs, ocean hall, mammals - incredible collection!

African American Museum

Newest Smithsonian (2016) - powerful, emotional, essential (timed entry!).

Holocaust Museum

Not Smithsonian but FREE - deeply moving, timed entry required.

National Gallery

European and American art - Da Vinci, Vermeer, FREE!

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

ALL Smithsonians FREE - no tickets except special exhibits!

2

African American Museum requires timed entry - reserve months ahead!

3

Air & Space busiest - go early or choose Natural History.

4

Most museums 10 AM-5:30 PM - plan timing.

5

Each museum deserves 2-3 hours minimum - choose priorities!

6

Holocaust Museum powerful but intense - not for young kids.

7

National Gallery two buildings connected by underground - both worth visiting.

8

Security at all museums - bag checks, no large bags.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Are D.C. museums really free?

A: YES! All 19 Smithsonians completely FREE. National Gallery FREE. Holocaust Museum FREE. No tricks - genuinely free world-class museums! American taxpayers fund. Donations appreciated but not required. Incredible value!

Q:Which Smithsonian is best?

A: Air & Space most visited (Wright Brothers, Apollo 11!). Natural History most popular with families (Hope Diamond, dinosaurs). African American most important (timed entry!). American History for patriots. Each excellent - choose interests!

Q:How many museums can you see in a day?

A: 2-3 museums realistic (each needs 2-3 hours). Rushing through 5-6 possible but exhausting. Quality over quantity! Most visitors: 2 museums + monuments = perfect day. Plan 3-4 days for thorough Smithsonian experience.

Q:Do you need tickets for Smithsonian?

A: Most: NO tickets needed! African American Museum and Hirshhorn: Free timed entry passes (reserve online months ahead!). Walk-ins sometimes available but limited. Washington Monument: Free timed tickets. Otherwise just show up!

Q:What is the Hope Diamond?

A: Hope Diamond is 45.52-carat blue diamond at Natural History Museum! One of world's most famous gems. "Cursed" legend (owners died mysteriously!). Donated 1958. FREE to see. Surrounded by other jewels. Don't miss it!

Q:Is Holocaust Museum appropriate for kids?

A: Recommended age 11+. Powerful, emotional, graphic content. Permanent exhibit intense. Children's exhibit "Daniel's Story" for younger visitors. Important history but prepare kids. Adults: Essential visit. Free timed entry required.

Q:How long at each Smithsonian?

A: 2-3 hours per museum for highlights. Half-day for thorough visit. Museums huge - easy to spend entire day in one! Plan what you want to see. Cafes available for breaks. Don't rush!

Q:When is the best time for museums?

A: Weekday mornings least crowded. Summer weekends busiest. Rainy days perfect! Winter (Jan-Feb) quietest. Museums open year-round 10 AM-5:30 PM. Christmas Day closed. Any time works but avoid peak crowds!

Don't Miss the Perfect Washington, D.C. Experience

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Why Visit Washington, D.C.?

Iconic National Mall and historic monuments

World-class Smithsonian museums

Capitol Hill and political significance

Rich American history and culture

Beautiful architecture and memorials

Perfect blend of politics and culture

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Washington, D.C. enjoys four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid (75-90°F/24-32°C), winters are cold (30-45°F/-1-7°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.

Best Months

March to May and September to November offer the best weather with mild temperatures, beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with hot, humid weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

December to February offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and occasional snow.

Plan Your Washington, D.C. Trip

Transportation Tips

Excellent public transportation with Metro rail and buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the National Mall, and ride-sharing services are widely available.

Car Rental Deals in Washington, D.C.

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Washington, D.C. adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Washington, D.C.

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

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