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Skip-the-line National Archives Building - Exclusive Guided Tour

Overview
Discover the United States’ turbulent history through works preserved in the National Archives. This 1.5 - 2 hour exclusive guided museum tour explores the documents and letters that have built this very young, yet extremely influential world power.
City: Washington DC
Sat 05 Apr
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $95.40
Sat 05 Apr
Starting at $95.40
Make a reservation
What's Included
Tour Guide Exclusively For You (Does NOT apply if you choose "SAVE! BOOK SEMI-PRIVATE" option)
Duration 1.5 - 2 Hours
Wheelchair Friendly (Does NOT apply if you choose "SAVE! BOOK SEMI-PRIVATE" option)
Guided Museum Tour
Additional Info
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • A maximum of 8 people permitted per tour allowed
  • Notes: National Archives and other attractions or museums in DC may be subjected to occasional closures without previous warning from the museum management. When this occurs, we will provide guests with an appropriate alternative if the museum opening time is delayed more than 1h from the tour starting time. In these cases we are unable to provide refunds or discounts. Appropriate dress is required for entry into some sites on this tour. No large bags or suitcases are allowed inside the museum, only handbags or small thin bag packs are allowed through security. Due to increased security measures at many attractions some lines may form on tours with 'Skip the Line' or 'No Wait' access. Some specific rooms inside the museum are subjected to a very quiet or restricted right to speak inside, in this cases your guide will provide the information about this places before entering the specific rooms where this rule applies. Some collections may vary along the year.
What To Expect
1
The National Archives Museum
Enter the neoclassical building that acts as a temple to American history. Once inside, your expert guide will take you through the National Archives Rotunda to learn about the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution while observing the original documents. These papers, alongside the Bill of Rights and the Federalist Papers, are all signed by the prominent statesmen and founding fathers like Alexander Hamilton. Moving to the Public Vaults Exhibits, you’ll come face to face with letters from George Washington and John F. Kennedy. You’ll even see the Emancipation Proclamation, which, in 1863, led to the abolishment of slavery. Finally, in the Rubenstein Gallery, you’ll examine more historical documents like the Magna Carta of 1297, written well before the United States was even conceived, yet pivotal in influencing the other documents that you’ll experience in the Archives. By the end, you will have witnessed firsthand the humble documentation that created the world’s most powerful country.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (328)
Kathy M
Mar 2025
Bess was an excellent guide. She was throughly knowledgeable about the all historical documents we viewed. Her understanding of American history helped weave a thoroughly entertaining story that brought life to artifacts.
Jessica_F
Mar 2025
We learned so much and our guide was so knowledgeable! We had so much fun! We enjoyed the experience so much more, because of our amazing guide and all she had to share!
Alison_M
Mar 2025
Great tour! Very informative and easy to arrange. We enjoyed it very much. Would recommend it highly.

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