250th: National Archives & American History Museum Guided Tour

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.

1. 1

   National Museum of American History

   1.5 hours

   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.

2. 2

   The National Archives Museum

   40 min

   Skip the Line Access into the National Archives for a guided tour

• 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

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.