Castle to Capitol: Museums of the National Mall Architecture Tour
- Live Guide
- Instant Confirmation
- E-Ticket
- 2 hr
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!
Itinerary Details
Operated by: DC Design Tours
Stop At: Smithsonian Institution Building
Your tour begins outside the Smithsonian Castle, the headquarters of the largest museum complex in the world!
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Smithsonian Arts and Industries Building
We'll discuss the beautiful and unique design of this second home of the Smithsonian Institution.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
Our spaceship on the National Mall.
Duration: 5 minutes
Pass By: National Air and Space Museum
The second most popular museum in the world!
Pass By: National Gallery of Art
We'll examine the stark contrast between the Neoclassical West building and Modern East building of the National Gallery of Art.
Stop At: National Museum of the American Indian
Meant to look sculpted by the wind and water, this beautiful building has a tumultuous past.
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: United States Botanic Garden
A hidden gem among museums along the National Mall!
Duration: 10 minutes
Stop At: Bartholdi Park
A secret spot off the National Mall with a historic and beautiful fountain, sculpted by someone unexpected!
Duration: 5 minutes
Stop At: Capitol Hill
We'll wrap up at the foot of Capitol Hill, with breathtaking views of the US Capitol and the National Mall!
Duration: 10 minutes
