Castle to Capitol: Museums of the National Mall Architecture Tour

4.6
(9 reviews)

2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Hear the stories behind our best loved and little known Smithsonian museums!
Washington’s most famous and lesser known museums can be found on the East side of the National Mall, laid out between the Capitol Building and the Washington Monument. Called “America’s Attic,” the Smithsonian Institution is one of the largest museum organizations in the world, with 30 million annual visitors, 19 museums and over 140 million items in the collection. On this tour, explore how the Smithsonian Institution has helped shape the fabric of the National Mall since 1847. Please note, this tour is mostly outdoors, plus a visit inside of the Smithsonian Castle.

Reserve directly via DC Design Tours for the best experience and price!

What's Included

Local guide
Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide outside the Smithsonian Castle near the main entrance.

End point
Capitol Hill

We'll finish up on the West Lawn of the US Capitol for a beautiful view of the building and National Mall.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Smithsonian Institution Building

    Your tour begins outside the Smithsonian Castle, the headquarters of the largest museum complex in the world!

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    We'll discuss the beautiful and unique design of this second home of the Smithsonian Institution.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

    Our spaceship on the National Mall.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • National Gallery of Art (Pass by)

    We'll examine the stark contrast between the Neoclassical West building and Modern East building of the National Gallery of Art.

    Admission ticket free
  • 4
    National Museum of the American Indian

    Meant to look sculpted by the wind and water, this beautiful building has a tumultuous past.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    United States Botanic Garden

    A hidden gem among museums along the National Mall!

    10 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6

    A secret spot off the National Mall with a historic and beautiful fountain, sculpted by someone unexpected!

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Capitol Hill

    We'll wrap up at the foot of Capitol Hill, with breathtaking views of the US Capitol and the National Mall!

    10 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • 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
Supplied by DC Design Tours

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Tags

Architecture Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Likely to Sell Out
Seasonal

Cancellation Policy

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

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Rating

4.6 Based on 9 9 reviews
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