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The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is home to over 145 million specimens and artifacts, with exhibits ranging from fossils, gems, insects, and cultural artifacts from around the world. Discover what you can expect from a guided tour of this vast museum, and what lies in store for you on your visit.

What to expect on your guided tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

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Explore the museum’s most famous highlights

Navigate the vast halls of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History with a guide who leads you directly to the museum’s must-see exhibits. See iconic treasures like the Hope Diamond and impressive displays of dinosaur fossils, ocean life, and ancient cultures. It’s an efficient way to experience the museum’s greatest highlights in just a couple of hours.

Discover deeper stories with expert commentary

Your knowledgeable guide brings the museum’s collections to life with engaging explanations and little-known facts. Learn how scientists study fossils, how rare gemstones form deep within the Earth, and what the exhibits reveal about our planet’s history. The storytelling adds context that’s often missed during a self-guided visit.

Navigate one of the world’s largest natural history museums with ease

The museum is enormous, with millions of specimens and dozens of exhibition halls spread across multiple floors. A guided tour helps you move through the highlights without feeling overwhelmed. Your guide ensures you spend time in the most interesting galleries while skipping less essential areas. This curated approach makes the visit smoother, more engaging, and far more memorable.

Upgrade to a private tour for a personalized experience

Visitors can choose a private tour upgrade for a more customized and flexible experience. The guide can adjust the pace and itinerary for families, seniors, or visitors with accessibility needs or specific interests. This option offers a more relaxed and tailored way to explore the museum.

Continue exploring at your own pace after the tour

Once the guided portion ends, you’re free to remain inside the museum and explore further on your own. You can revisit exhibits that caught your attention or discover galleries not included in the tour route. This flexible format gives you the best of both worlds: expert guidance followed by independent exploration.

An ideal introduction for first-time visitors and curious explorers

A guided tour is especially valuable for first-time visitors who want a clear introduction to the museum’s vast collections. It’s also great for families, travelers with limited time, and anyone who enjoys learning through storytelling. For many visitors, it transforms a large museum visit into a truly engaging experience.

Significance of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

  • One of the world’s most visited natural history museums: The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History welcomes millions of visitors each year, making it one of the most visited museums in the world. Its wide-ranging exhibits introduce people of all ages to the wonders of science, nature, and human history.
  • Part of the historic Smithsonian Institution: The museum is one of the flagship institutions of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex. This connection allows it to play a major role in global scientific research and public education.
  • Home to one of the largest natural history collections on Earth: The museum houses more than 145 million specimens and artifacts, including fossils, minerals, plants, animals, and human cultural objects. These collections serve as an invaluable resource for scientists studying Earth’s past, present, and future.
  • A center for groundbreaking scientific research: Scientists working with the museum’s collections conduct research in fields such as paleontology, anthropology, and biodiversity. Their work helps deepen our understanding of evolution, climate change, ecosystems, and human origins.
  • A place where science meets public education: Through engaging exhibits and educational programs, the museum makes complex scientific ideas accessible to visitors from around the world. It plays an important role in inspiring curiosity and encouraging future generations of scientists and explorers.
  • Preserver of cultural and human history: Beyond natural science, the museum also highlights the cultural history of human societies through anthropology collections and exhibits. These displays help visitors understand how different cultures have interacted with the natural world over thousands of years.
  • A landmark in the heart of the National Mall: Located on the iconic National Mall, the museum stands among some of the most important cultural institutions in the US. Its location makes it a central stop for visitors exploring the nation’s capital and its rich heritage.

Highlights at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

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The Hope Diamond

One of the museum’s most famous treasures, the legendary Hope Diamond dazzles visitors with its deep blue color and fascinating history. Your guide shares the science behind this rare gemstone as well as the myths and legends that have surrounded it for centuries.

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Know before you go

  • Opening hours: 10am to 5:30pm, daily
  • Closed on: Christmas Day (December 25)
  • Guided tour duration: 2.5 hours

Address: 10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, United States | Find on Maps

  • Closest Subway stations: 

    • Smithsonian: Connects 3 out of 6 lines in DC: Blue, Orange, and Silver  (0.3 miles)
    • Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter: Connects 2 out of 6 lines in DC: Green and Yellow (0.3 miles)

  • Closest bus stop: Constitution Ave at 12th St (1-min)

  • First aid: Basic first aid assistance is available on-site, and staff members can help direct visitors to additional medical support if required.
  • Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, allowing visitors to access digital guides and stay connected during their visit.
  • Time to explore after the guided tour: Visitors are welcome to stay inside the museum after the guided tour concludes and continue exploring the exhibits independently.
  • Mobility aids permitted: Canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices are allowed throughout the museum to support visitors with mobility needs.
  • Accessible routes: Elevators, ramps, and step-free pathways provide convenient access between major galleries and public areas of the museum.
  • Accessible restrooms and entrances: Designated accessible restrooms and barrier-free entrances are available across the Smithsonian museum buildings.
  • Stroller accessibility: Strollers are permitted throughout the museum, making it easier for families visiting with young children.
  • Service animals allowed: Registered service animals are permitted in accordance with ADA guidelines; emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals are not considered service animals under ADA regulations.
  • Wheelchair access by tour type: Self-guided and private tour options are wheelchair accessible, while small-group guided tours do not provide wheelchair accessibility.
  • Sensory aids: Assistive resources are available for visitors with sensory sensitivities as well as those with vision or hearing impairments.
  • Security screening: All visitors must go through a security checkpoint upon entry, which includes metal-detector screening and possible additional bag inspections.
  • Outside food policy: Sealed outside food is allowed inside the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
  • Late arrival policy: Timed-entry tours are rarely rescheduled if visitors miss their designated time slot, so arriving on time is important.
  • Photography equipment restrictions: Selfie sticks, tripods, and monopods are not permitted inside the museum.
  • No weapons or sharp objects: Weapons of any kind and sharp objects are strictly prohibited inside the building.
  • No demonstration materials: Items such as placards, signs, aerosol containers, and banners are not allowed inside the museum.
  • No pets: Pets are not permitted inside the museum, except for registered service animals.
  • Arrive early to clear security smoothly: Entry to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History requires a security screening, which can take time during busy hours. Arriving 15-20 minutes before your scheduled tour helps ensure you clear the checkpoint comfortably and meet your guide without rushing.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for a lot of walking: Even a 2.5-hour tour covers significant ground across several galleries and corridors. Comfortable footwear will make the experience far more enjoyable as you move between large exhibit halls.
  • Bring a refillable water bottle and light essentials: The museum is spacious, and you may be inside for several hours if you explore after the tour. Carrying water and a small bag for essentials helps you stay comfortable throughout your visit.
  • Ask questions during the tour: One of the biggest advantages of a guided tour is the chance to interact with your guide. Don’t hesitate to ask about specific artifacts, scientific discoveries, or exhibits that spark your curiosity.
  • Plan which exhibits you want to revisit afterward: Many visitors discover fascinating displays during the tour that they wish they had more time to explore. Make mental notes or take photos of gallery names so you can easily return after the guided portion ends.
  • Consider a private tour for specific interests: If you’re especially interested in dinosaurs, gemstones, human evolution, or marine life, a private tour can tailor the experience around those topics. It also allows more flexibility in pacing and time spent at each exhibit.

Frequently asked questions about the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History tickets

Admission to the museum itself is free as part of the Smithsonian Institution. Guided tours typically charge only for the guide’s service and curated experience.

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