National Archives + American History Museum Exclusive Guided Tour

Step back in time and explore the heart of American history on this exclusive guided tour. From the solemn grounds of Arlington National Cemetery to the awe-inspiring exhibits at the National Museum, you’ll uncover captivating tales that shaped this nation. Led by a knowledgeable guide, discover the stories behind iconic artifacts and pay tribute to the brave individuals who fought for freedom. Get ready to embark on a journey that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the past and a renewed sense of patriotism.

Good To Know

1. This combo tour offers an exclusive private experience exploring iconic gravesites at Arlington National Cemetery and historic artifacts at the National Museum of American History.

2. The 5.5-hour tour includes guided visits to notable figures’ gravesites, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and museum highlights like the Star-Spangled Banner and Dorothy’s ruby-red slippers.

3. The tour is wheelchair accessible but involves moderate walking, and large bags are prohibited due to security measures.

4. The cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, with rescheduling and group size reduction options available for a fee.

5. The tour starts at the National Archives Research Center and ends at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, with guests responsible for their own transportation to the meeting point.

Tour Overview

The tour offers a private combo experience that includes visits to both Arlington National Cemetery and the National Museum of American History.

Over 5.5 hours, guests explore the gravesites of iconic figures, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the former home of Robert E. Lee.

At the museum, they marvel at the original Star-Spangled Banner, Dorothy’s ruby slippers, and other historic artifacts.

Though moderate walking is involved, the tour runs rain or shine and includes private transportation if needed.

With a 100% traveler recommendation, this exclusive tour is a must for history enthusiasts.

Key Attractions at Arlington National Cemetery

While visiting Arlington National Cemetery, guests can pay respects at the gravesites of several renowned figures in American history. These include President John F. Kennedy, his wife Jacqueline, former Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, and countless Civil War casualties.

The cemetery also features the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, offering a solemn tribute to the fallen.

Highlights of the National Museum of American History

Visitors to the National Museum of American History can explore an impressive collection of iconic artifacts that tell the nation’s stories.

Highlights include:

• The original Star-Spangled Banner, the American flag that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the national anthem.

• Dorothy’s ruby-red slippers from The Wizard of Oz, a cultural touchstone that has captivated audiences for generations.

• George Washington’s sword, a powerful symbol of the nation’s first president and the ideals of the American Revolution.

• Other historical treasures like the first steam locomotive and the lunchbox carried by a 1960s worker, showcasing the breadth of American history.

Tour Logistics

Although the tour meeting point is at the National Archives Research Center, the end point is the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

The tour starts at 10:00 am, and the minimum booking requirement is two people. During the 5.5-hour experience, guests will enjoy a guided walking tour and museum visit with an exclusive guide, excluding any hotel pickup/drop-off, lunch, and gratuities.

While the tour is wheelchair accessible, it involves moderate walking and isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues. Guests must provide their mobile number at booking, and large bags aren’t allowed due to security measures.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour price includes a guided walking and museum tour with an exclusive guide, which isn’t applicable for the semi-private option.

The tour price excludes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Lunch, which is at the guest’s own expense
• Gratuities, which are optional

While the tour is wheelchair accessible, guests are responsible for their own mobility needs.

Guests must provide their mobile phone number at booking, and the tour may be subject to changes due to museum closures.

Large bags aren’t allowed, and security measures are in place.

Guests can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.

Accessibility and Security Measures

The tour is wheelchair accessible, with surfaces and transportation designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs.

Security measures are in place, so travelers should avoid bringing large bags. Guests must provide a mobile phone number at booking in case of any schedule changes.

While museums may occasionally close, the tour provider will offer alternatives if delays exceed an hour. Travelers should dress appropriately, as they’ll go through security checkpoints.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This gives you the flexibility to adjust your plans if needed.

After that, cancellations aren’t permitted, and the full tour price will be charged. However, there are a few ways to make changes:

• If you need to reschedule, you can do so for a fee, subject to availability.
• If you need to reduce the group size, you can do so for a partial refund, also subject to availability.
• In the rare event of a museum closure, the tour operator will provide an alternative or a full refund.

Guests are responsible for their own transportation to the meeting point.

Contact Information

Booking this tour is easy – guests simply need to provide their mobile phone number when making the reservation. This allows the tour operator to stay in touch with participants in case of any last-minute updates or changes.

The meeting point is the National Archives Research Center, and the tour ends at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. If transportation is required, it’s included in the tour price.

While museums may have occasional closures, alternative options will be provided if delays exceed one hour. The booking process is straightforward, ensuring a seamless experience for guests.

The Sum Up

This exclusive guided tour offers a captivating journey through American history. Explore iconic sites like Arlington National Cemetery, marvel at historical artifacts at the National Museum of American History, and enjoy insightful commentary from your guide. It’s a perfect blend of remembrance and education, providing an unforgettable experience for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of American heritage.