About this experience
Experience 250 years of American history on this 3-hour guided walking tour led by a local historian & professional tour guide.
Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, where you’ll explore pivotal moments from the American Revolution to the 20th century and beyond. Rather than wandering aimlessly, you’ll follow a carefully curated narrative that makes history engaging, accessible, and relevant.
Head to the National Archives Museum, where you’ll enjoy skip-the-line entry. Inside, view the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, some of the most important original documents in world history.
Throughout the tour, the small group size allows for meaningful interaction, questions, and discussion, creating a more personal and enriching experience than large group tours.
At a glance
- Duration: 3 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 3 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
Smithsonian National Museum of American History Guide
Journey through the Smithsonian National Museum of American History Guide to uncover iconic treasures, insider tips, and one unforgettable stop you won’t expect.
National Museum of African American History and Culture Guide
Begin your National Museum of African American History and Culture guide with timed-entry tips, must-see exhibits, and one unforgettable stop most visitors almost miss.
National Museum of African American History Tours
Plan a self-guided or group visit to Washington DC’s African American history museum, including timed passes, hours, Metro access, crowds, and accessibility.
What is included
- Entrance & Guided Tour of American History Museum
- Walking Tour with Local Tour Guide
- Skip the Line Access into the National Archives
Not included
- Gratuity
Itinerary and highlights
Rather than wandering aimlessly, you’ll follow a carefully curated narrative that makes history engaging, accessible, and relevant.
You 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 small portable desk where Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence.
-Gunboat Philadelphia: A Revolutionary War vessel recovered from Lake Champlain, offering rare physical evidence of early American naval warfare and the fight for independence.
-Julia Child’s Kitchen: The kitchen where Julia Child filmed The French Chef, representing postwar cultural change, the rise of food media, and how everyday Americans embraced new ideas and lifestyles.
-John Bull Locomotive: One of the oldest surviving steam locomotives in the world, illustrating how railroads powered America’s industrial growth, westward expansion, and economic transformation.
Skip the Line Access into the National Archives for a guided tour
Meeting and pickup information
- 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.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- DC by Foot
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
Which guide languages are listed?
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What accessibility information is provided?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
What is the cancellation policy?
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