Smithsonian National Museum of American History Tours

Explore the Smithsonian National Museum of American History on a 2.5-hour small-group tour led by an expert guide.

Getting started

Meet your guide at the designated point near the museum’s main entrance, where you’ll be welcomed and checked in. After a brief introduction and ticket validation, your guide will lead your group through security and into the museum to begin your journey.

What to expect

Smithsonian National Museum of American History

This renowned museum chronicles the story of the United States through iconic artifacts, tracing the nation’s evolution from its founding to colonial days, and now to the present. Your guide will highlight pivotal moments and objects that have shaped American culture and identity.

Features

• Star-Spangled Banner: View the original 15-star, 15-stripe flag that inspired the U.S. national anthem, a powerful symbol from the War of 1812.

• Greensboro Lunch Counter: Stand before the Woolworth’s counter where a 1960 sit-in sparked a nationwide movement for civil rights and desegregation.

• George Washington’s Uniform and Sword: See the actual uniform and battle sword worn by America’s first president during the Revolutionary War.

• Abraham Lincoln’s Top Hat: Encounter the top hat worn by Lincoln on the night of his assassination, a poignant piece of presidential history.

• Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers: Step into pop culture with the famous ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz, a beloved artifact of American cinema.