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Castle to Capitol: Museums of the National Mall Architecture Tour

8 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 8 reviews collected by Cool Washington DC and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Washington DC, USA

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On average, this is booked 25 (0) days in advance.

2 hours (approx.)
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Overview

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
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Jefferson Drive Southwest
Washington, DC 20560, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Capitol Hill
Washington, DC 20004, USA

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

What To Expect

Smithsonian Institution Building

Your tour begins outside the Smithsonian Castle, the headquarters of the largest museum complex in the world!
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30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Smithsonian Arts + Industries Building

We'll discuss the beautiful and unique design of this second home of the Smithsonian Institution.
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5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

Our spaceship on the National Mall.
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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.
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National Museum of the American Indian

Meant to look sculpted by the wind and water, this beautiful building has a tumultuous past.
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5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

United States Botanic Garden

A hidden gem among museums along the National Mall!
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Bartholdi Park

A secret spot off the National Mall with a historic and beautiful fountain, sculpted by someone unexpected!
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5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Capitol Hill

We'll wrap up at the foot of Capitol Hill, with breathtaking views of the US Capitol and the National Mall!
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10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Castle to Capitol: Museums of the National Mall Architecture Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT).This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund. Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-33458P2

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
8 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 8 traveler reviews collected by Cool Washington DC and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
8
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
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1 star
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On average, this is booked 25 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Local guide
  • Gratuities

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough guests to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, an alternative or full refund will be provided.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers

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Free Cancellation

100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EDT).
  • This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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