How to Plan Your Private Guided Tour of the National Archives Building in Washington DC

Are you interested in exploring the history and significance of the United States through primary source documents? Do you want an in-depth experience that goes beyond the typical tourist sights? Then a private guided tour of the National Archives Building in Washington DC might be just what you’re looking for! In this guide, we will walk you through how to plan your private tour and what to expect during your visit.

Overview of the Tour

The private guided tour of the National Archives Building offers a unique opportunity to explore some of the most important documents in US history with a private guide. During this 2-hour tour, you will have the chance to see original documents, like the Declaration of Independence, the US Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Federalist Papers up close. You will also have the chance to see hand-written letters from notable figures like George Washington and John F. Kennedy.As a private tour, this experience is customizable to your interests. You can work with your guide to focus on specific documents, time periods, or themes that you find most interesting. This flexibility makes for a more personalized and engaging experience than a typical group tour.

What’s Included

When you book your private guided tour of the National Archives Building, you can expect:

• A guided museum tour with a knowledgeable and friendly guide
• A tour guide exclusively for your group (unless you choose the “SAVE! BOOK SEMI-PRIVATE” option)
• A duration of 2 hours
• Admission to the National Archives Building

It’s important to note that the tour price does NOT include hotel pickup or drop-off. We recommend taking an Uber or taxi to the National Archives Building. Additionally, gratuities for your guide are optional and not included in the tour price.

Booking Your Tour

To book your private guided tour of the National Archives Building, you can visit the official website. Tickets must be purchased in advance, and we recommend booking early to secure your preferred tour time.On the booking page, you will have the option to choose your preferred date and time for your tour. You will also have the option to personalize your tour by choosing specific themes or documents you would like to focus on. Payment must be made in full in order to confirm your booking.Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive an email with instructions on where to meet your private guide on the day of your tour.

Preparing for Your Tour

When preparing for your private guided tour of the National Archives Building, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there will be a fair amount of walking throughout the tour.
• Be prepared to go through security screening at the entrance to the National Archives Building.
• Avoid bringing large bags or backpacks, as they are not allowed inside the building.

You may also want to do some research ahead of time on the specific documents or themes you are interested in. This will help you make the most of your time with your private guide and ensure you get the most out of your visit to the National Archives Building.

Conclusion

A private guided tour of the National Archives Building is an excellent way to explore the history and significance of the United States through primary source documents. With a personalized and informative tour, you can make the most of your visit to one of the most important collections of historical documents in the world. To book your private guided tour, visit the official website and follow the instructions provided. We hope you enjoy your visit to the National Archives Building in Washington DC!

FAQs About Washington D.C

Washington D.C is a city that has a lot of tourist attractions and is known for its monuments, museums, and iconic buildings. When planning a trip to the city, there are several questions that travelers might have to make their trip more enjoyable. Here are ten frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Washington D.C.

1. What is the best time to visit Washington D.C.?

The best time to visit Washington D.C is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The temperature is pleasant, and the crowds are manageable. However, hotel prices are much higher during these peak travel seasons. The summer season is also popular, but it can be hot and humid in the city.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. is a city with numerous tourist attractions that suit different interests. Here are some of the top attractions;

i. The White House:

The official residence of the President of the United States is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world.

ii. The National Mall:

It is a large park in the center of the city that is home to iconic monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the United States Capitol.

iii. Smithsonian Museums:

Washington D.C. has the largest collection of museums in the world. There are 16 Smithsonian museums with exhibits ranging from art to history.

iv. Arlington National Cemetery:

It is a military cemetery that is home to the graves of soldiers who died in service, including President John F. Kennedy.

3. What is the best way to get around Washington D.C.?

The city has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, subways, and trains. The subway, locally known as the Metro, is the most efficient way to get around the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, but they can be expensive, especially during peak hours.

4. What are the best places to stay in Washington D.C.?

There is no shortage of accommodation options in the city. The hotels range from budget-friendly to luxury. Some of the most popular areas to stay in are Downtown D.C, Capitol Hill, and Georgetown.

5. What are some of the best restaurants in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. has a diverse food scene that features cuisines from all over the world. Some of the best restaurants in the city include:

i. Le Diplomate:

A French brasserie that serves classic dishes such as steak and frites.

ii. Rose’s Luxury:

A trendy restaurant that serves innovative American cuisine.

iii. Maydan:

A Moroccan-inspired restaurant that features wood-fired cooking.

6. What is the weather like in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. experiences four distinct seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 80°F (27°C). Winters can be cold, with temperatures averaging around 40°F (4°C). Spring and fall are ideal for touring the city as temperatures are mild.

7. How far is Washington D.C from other cities?

Washington D.C. is located on the East Coast of the United States and is easily accessible by air, train, or car. It is a three-hour drive from New York City and a two-hour drive from Philadelphia. Baltimore is just an hour away, and the city also has three airports, including the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

8. What are some free things to do in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. has several free attractions that include:

i. The Smithsonian Museums:

All 16 of the Smithsonian Museums in the city are free to enter.

ii. Walk around the National Mall:

The National Mall is a vast park that is home to various monuments and is free to enter.

iii. Visit the National Zoo:

The National Zoo is a free outdoor experience that provides visitors with an opportunity to see animals from all over the world.

9. Is Washington D.C a safe city?

Washington D.C. is generally safe for tourists. However, just like in any other major city, visitors must be aware of their surroundings, keep their belongings secure and avoid walking alone at night.

10. Can I tour the White House?

Yes, it is possible to tour the White House. However, visitors must request a tour through their Member of Congress or Embassy. It is essential to make the request at least 21 days before the planned visit as the demand for tours is high.

Conclusion

Washington D.C. is an exciting city with a lot to offer travelers. From its historical monuments to its museums and diverse food scene, it is no wonder that the city attracts thousands of visitors each year. By answering these frequently asked questions, we hope that we have helped you plan your trip to the city better.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Washington DC

Washington DC, the capital of the United States, is a unique blend of history, politics, and culture. It’s a bustling city filled with numerous landmarks and attractions that are worth seeing. From the White House to Smithsonian Museums, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in the city. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do as a tourist in Washington DC.

1. Visit the National Mall

Washington DC’s National Mall is a two-mile long park that houses many of the city’s most famous monuments and museums. It’s also home to the iconic Washington Monument, a 555-foot tall obelisk that honors George Washington, the first president of the United States. The National Mall has several great spots for picnics, walking, and sightseeing.

Steps:

1. Begin your tour by visiting the Lincoln Memorial, which is located at one end of the National Mall. The memorial is dedicated to the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, and features a 19-foot-tall statue of him.
2. Afterward, make your way to the Washington Monument, located in the center of the National Mall. Visitors can take an elevator to the top, where you’ll get stunning views of DC and its surroundings.
3. Next, head to the National World War II Memorial, which pays tribute to the 16 million who served in the U.S. armed forces during the war, including the 400,000 who died. The Memorial features 56 pillars and a central fountain.
4. Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial which honors the American Baptist Minister and his work in the Civil Rights Movement. The statue of Dr. King is seen emerging from a great stone of hope that is carved from the Mountain of Despair.
5. Finally, visit the Jefferson Memorial, which is dedicated to the third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson. The memorial is a neoclassical building and features a 19-foot-tall bronze statue of the president.

2. Explore the Smithsonian Museums

The Smithsonian Museums are some of the most significant museums in the world and are must-visit destinations for tourists in Washington DC. There are 19 museums in the Smithsonian Institution, and admission is free. Not to be missed are the National Air and Space Museum, the American Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of American History

Steps:

1. Begin by visiting the National Air and Space Museum. This museum houses the largest collection of historical aircraft and spacecraft in the world. Visitors can see original moon rocks, the Wright Brothers’ plane, and missiles from the Cold War.
2. Next, head to the American Museum of Natural History, which features a vast collection of natural specimens including fossils, rocks, and gems. Displays include a full-size elephant and a whale skeleton.
3. Finally, make your way to the National Museum of American History, which features exhibits on the history of the United States. Here, you can see the original Star-Spangled Banner and the First Ladies Inaugural Gowns exhibit.

3. Visit the White House

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States and is a must-visit destination for tourists in Washington DC. Visitors can take one of the many White House tours offered by the government.

Steps:

1. Book your White House tour in advance to avoid disappointment. Visitors are required to apply for a tour at least three months in advance through their Member of Congress or their country’s embassy.
2. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time to clear security.
3. During your tour, you’ll be shown highlights of the White House, including the East Wing, State Dining Room, the Red Room, and the Oval Office. Tours typically last 45 minutes to an hour.

4. Take a Tour of the U.S. Capitol

The United States Capitol is home to the legislative branch of the U.S. government and is an excellent destination for tourists to visit. You can take tours of the Capitol, and there’s plenty to see, including the Rotunda, the Statuary Hall, and the National Statuary Hall Collection.

Steps:

1. Book your Capitol tour in advance to avoid disappointment. Visitors can take the public tour, which is free of charge, but they must acquire passes to do so.
2. Arrive at the Capitol Visitor Center at least 15 minutes before your tour begins. Security is tight, and there is a list of prohibited items on the website, so make sure you read them carefully and leave prohibited items safely back home or in your hotel room.
3. During your tour, you’ll see the Crypt, which is the original floor of the Capitol, the Rotunda, which features historic paintings, murals, and statues, and the National Statuary Hall Collection, which contains statues of prominent Americans.

5. Visit Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is a military cemetery in Virginia, located just across the Potomac River from Washington DC. It’s a profound and sobering destination for tourists in Washington DC.

Steps:

1. Begin by visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a memorial dedicated to American service members who have died without their remains being identified. Visitors can watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which takes place every hour on the hour.
2. Next, visit the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame, which is a flame that burns continuously to honor the 35th President of the United States.
3. Finally, visit the Memorial Amphitheater, which is the site of many important ceremonies and events, including funerals and wreath-laying ceremonies.

Conclusion

Washington DC is a city that is steeped in history and culture, and there is no shortage of things to do and see for tourists. From visiting the National Mall and Smithsonian Museums to touring the White House and Capitol, there’s something for everyone. Remember to plan your tour ahead, because some destinations require advanced booking, and be sure to check operating hours and policies. When you are in DC, take your time to enjoy the cultural mosaic of this great city.