How to Plan Your Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Guided Tour in Washington D.C.

If you’re planning a trip to Washington D.C., you won’t want to miss the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. With over 145 million specimens, this museum boasts an extensive collection of human artifacts, dinosaur bones, preserved plants, and animals. One of the best ways to experience this incredible museum is through a guided tour. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to plan your Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Guided Tour in Washington D.C.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

The first step in planning your tour is to book it. You can do this by following the link below, where you’ll find all the necessary information and details about the tour:Book the tour hereThe tour includes a 2-hour guided tour of the museum, entrance to the museum, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Food and drinks are not included in the tour, so you may want to bring your own snacks and drinks.

Step 2: Prepare for Your Tour

Once you’ve booked your tour, it’s time to start preparing for it. Here are a few tips to help you get ready:

• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes that you’ll be able to walk in for a few hours.
• Bring a jacket: The museum can be quite cold, so it’s a good idea to bring a jacket or sweater with you.
• Charge your camera: There will be plenty of photo opportunities, so make sure your camera is fully charged and ready to go.
• Get there early: The museum can get quite crowded, so it’s a good idea to get there early to avoid the crowds.
• Be ready to learn: This tour is an educational experience, so come ready to learn and ask questions.

Step 3: Experience the Tour

The tour is an incredible experience that will take you through some of the most fascinating exhibits in the museum. Some of the highlights of the tour include:

• Feeling the thrill of navigating through over 145 million specimens
• Marveling at dinosaur bones, glimmering gemstones, and mysterious mummies
• Finding points of interest quickly with a guide that knows the museum
• Listening as your guide tells you more about the museum and exhibits
• Interacting with fascinating educational exhibits

Your guide will help you navigate through the museum, pointing out exhibits of interest and providing you with additional information about each exhibit. This is a great way to learn more about natural history and the world around us.

Step 4: Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your tour:

• Ask questions: Your guide is there to help you learn, so don’t be afraid to ask questions.
• Take your time: The museum is large, so take your time and enjoy each exhibit.
• Follow the rules: Make sure you follow the rules of the museum and respect the exhibits.
• Take breaks: If you need to take a break, there are plenty of benches and seating areas throughout the museum.
• Visit the gift shop: The museum’s gift shop has a wide variety of souvenirs and educational materials.

Conclusion

A guided tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is an incredible way to experience this world-renowned Museum. By following our step-by-step guide, you’ll be fully prepared to enjoy the experience to the fullest. Don’t forget to book your tour in advance and prepare accordingly to make the most out of your visit.

Washington Dc: Frequently Asked Questions

Washington Dc, the capital city of the United States, is a major tourist destination. People from all over the world visit this city to explore the rich history, culture, and political importance. If you’re planning a trip to Washington Dc, you might have a few questions in your mind. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Washington Dc.

1. What is the best time to visit Washington Dc?

The best time to visit Washington Dc is from September to November and March to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and you can avoid the crowds that you might face during the summer months. The peak tourist season in Washington Dc is from June to August when the weather is hot and humid, and there is a rush of visitors. However, if you can bear the hot climate and the crowds, you can visit during the summer months.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Washington Dc?

Washington Dc is home to several tourist attractions such as:

2.1. The White House:

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States. Visitors can take a guided tour of the White House, but prior reservations are required.

2.2. The National Mall:

The National Mall is a vast green space that stretches from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol Building. The famous monuments and memorials such as the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial are all located in the National Mall.

2.3. The Smithsonian Museums:

Washington Dc is home to many world-renowned museums such as the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian American Art Museum, National Air and Space Museum, and many more.

3. How do I get around Washington Dc?

Washington Dc has an extensive public transportation system consisting of Metro rail, buses, and taxis. The Metro rail system has six lines, and most of the tourist attractions are located near the Metro stations. Visitors can also rent bikes or take a Segway tour of the city.

4. Do I need to carry an ID when visiting Washington Dc?

Yes, it is mandatory to carry a government-issued ID when visiting Washington Dc. If you’re a foreign national, you should carry your passport with you at all times.

5. What is the food scene like in Washington Dc?

Washington Dc has a diverse food scene with several international cuisines. The city is famous for its iconic dishes such as the half-smoke and mumbo sauce. You can also find several food trucks scattered throughout the city.

6. Where can I stay in Washington Dc?

Washington Dc has several accommodation options ranging from budget hotels to luxury boutique hotels. Most visitors prefer to stay in the downtown area, which is close to most of the tourist attractions.

7. How far is Washington Dc from other major cities?

Washington Dc is located on the east coast of the United States and is well-connected to several major cities such as New York, Philadelphia, and Boston. It takes around four hours to reach New York City by car and around two hours by Amtrak train.

8. Do I need to tip in Washington Dc?

Tipping is a common practice in Washington Dc, and it is customary to tip around 15%-20% of the bill amount in restaurants and cafes. It is also essential to tip the taxi drivers and hotel staff.

9. Can I visit the Capitol Building?

Yes, visitors can take a guided tour of the Capitol Building, which is the seat of the United States Congress. However, prior reservations are required, and visitors should carry a government-issued ID with them.

10. What is the dress code for visiting the White House?

There is no strict dress code for visiting the White House, but visitors are advised to dress appropriately. Men should wear a suit or a collared shirt, and women should wear a dress or a blouse with trousers or a skirt. Jeans, sneakers, and flip-flops are not allowed.In conclusion, Washington Dc is a vibrant city with several tourist attractions and a rich history. We hope that this blog post has answered some of your commonly asked questions about Washington Dc and helped you plan your trip better.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Washington Dc

Washington Dc, the capital city of the United States of America, is a popular destination for tourists from all around the world. The city is home to a rich history and culture, and there are many attractions and activities that visitors can enjoy during their stay. In this guide, we will provide you with a comprehensive overview of how to spend your time as a tourist in Washington Dc.

1. Visit the National Mall and its Monuments

The National Mall is a large park that spans over 2 miles and is home to many iconic monuments and memorials. This is a must-visit destination for any tourist visiting Washington Dc. You can start your tour at the Lincoln Memorial and then make your way to the Washington Monument. From there, head to the World War II Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. The National Mall is a great place to take a stroll, have a picnic, or just relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

2. Explore the Smithsonian Museums

Washington Dc is home to a collection of museums called the Smithsonian Institution, which holds over 154 million artifacts and specimens. The best part about these museums is that they are free to visit. You can choose from the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Air and Space Museum, and many other museums. These museums are great for any age group and offer a great learning experience.

3. Take a Tour of the White House

The White House is the home of the President of the United States and is an iconic structure that represents American democracy. You can take a guided tour of the White House, but you need to book it in advance through your embassy or consulate. The tour takes you through the State Rooms and provides valuable insight into the history of the White House and its importance to the American people.

4. Visit the United States Capitol

The United States Capitol is the seat of the United States Congress and is another iconic structure in Washington Dc. You can take a guided tour of the Capitol, but you need to book it in advance. The tour takes you through the historic hallways of the Capitol and provides valuable insight into the history of the United States Congress.

5. Take a stroll down Georgetown

Georgetown is a historic neighborhood in Washington Dc and is a great place to take a stroll. You can walk down the cobblestoned streets and admire the beautiful architecture of Georgetown’s historic houses. There are also many boutiques, shops, and restaurants that you can visit.

6. Visit the National Zoo

The National Zoo is a large zoo that is home to over 1,500 animals from 300 different species. The zoo is a great outing for any age group and offers a great variety of animals to see. The zoo is operated by the Smithsonian Institution and is free to visit.

7. Explore the Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin is a large reservoir that is home to many cherry blossom trees. This is a great place to visit during the spring when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. You can take a stroll around the Tidal Basin and admire the beautiful cherry blossoms.

8. Visit Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is the historic home of George Washington, the first President of the United States. You can take a guided tour of the house and the surrounding grounds. The tour provides valuable insight into the life of George Washington and his contribution to American history.In conclusion, there are many things to do and see in Washington Dc. The city is rich in culture and history and offers a great experience for any tourist. By following the above recommendations, you can have an amazing time exploring the city and learning about American history.