About this experience
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.
At a glance
- Duration: 4 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 4 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
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.
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.
What is included
- Bottled water
- Live commentary on board by a local tour guide
- Complimentary Reservation into the National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Live tour guide - on and off the bus
Not included
- Lunch
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Itinerary and highlights
Guided Stop (outside only)
Guided Tour (outside only)
guided stop
guided stop
guided stop at U.S. Capitol Building (outside only)
Guided Stop
Guided Stop
We conclude our city tour at the museum with a complimentary reservation for entry. Guests are welcome to explore the museum independently for the rest of the day. Please be aware that museum availability is subject to change, and contact the Smithsonian directly with any questions.
Meeting and pickup information
- US Navy Memorial Plaza
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- USA Guided Tours
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
- The seats are assigned on the first come, first served basis
- Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time to ensure a timely check in
- No food allowed on buses (snacks are fine!)
- Please Note: Purchase of this tour includes free timed-entry passes to the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. However, this is not an official Smithsonian tour. Additionally, entry to the property is provided complimentary only after completing the sightseeing history tour. Customers booking this tour are paying for this company’s services and perspective, which is independent of and may not represent the views of the Smithsonian.
- Additionally, we do our best to provide entry to the Smithsonian but it is not guaranteed. The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture is a public institution and we do not factor entry passes into our ticket price. We have no special reservation agreement with them and simply access their public portal on Recreation.gov for tickets. Guests may still experience wait times upon arrival to enter the museum and are required to follow the museum's guidelines for entry at their allotted entry time.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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What accessibility information is provided?
Service animals allowed
Collapsible wheelchairs with removable wheels can be accommodated providing the passenger is accompanied by someone who can assist them board and disembark
What is the cancellation policy?
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