Smithsonian Institution Tours and Activities

Things to do near Smithsonian Institution

Exploring the Smithsonian Institution offers a wealth of activities, from marveling at dinosaur skeletons to visiting numerous museums. Enjoy sightseeing in Washington, capturing memories on photo tours, and discovering the treasures of the Smithsonian National Museum. Don't forget to indulge in nearby shopping and theatre options for a well-rounded experience.

Shopping

Union Station Shopping Center, just 161m from the Smithsonian Institution, offers a vibrant mix of family-friendly shops and entertainment. Nearby, CityCenterDC and Union Market, both 1.4km away, provide a lively atmosphere for city and business vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore more shopping options further afield.

Recreation

Capital One Arena offers an energetic atmosphere, perfect for sports enthusiasts looking to catch a game or event. For a touch of luxury, visit Cosmos Club, where you can enjoy refined dining and elegant surroundings. Anacostia Park provides a serene environment for relaxation, with walking trails and peaceful green spaces.

Adventure

Embark on the Allegheny Passage for a scenic hike, where adventure awaits amid nature's beauty. Alternatively, explore the Pinery Trail, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Don't miss the Greenstone Ridge Trail, offering breathtaking views and the thrill of hiking, all within 1.6km of the Smithsonian Institution.

Nightlife

In Washington, the nightlife around the Smithsonian Institution is vibrant. The Anthem, Ford's Theatre, and Warner Theatre offer a blend of culture and entertainment, all within 1.6km or two. Enjoy captivating performances in a romantic, family-friendly atmosphere that brings the city's energy alive after dark.

Find the best attractions near Smithsonian Institution

Exploring the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., offers a delightful mix of culture and history. You can visit renowned memorials, historic civic buildings, and art museums. The area caters to those seeking an enriching city experience, with highlights including the various Smithsonian museums and the National Museum of American History. Whether you're wandering through outdoor spaces or delving into exhibitions, there’s something for every traveller near the Smithsonian.

• White House: Experience the iconic residence of the President of the United States. This historic civic building is steeped in culture and offers a glimpse into the heart of American democracy, located 3.2km from the Smithsonian Institution.
• National Mall: Explore this expansive national park, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. With its stunning scenery and outdoor vibes, the National Mall, situated 1.6km away, is ideal for leisurely strolls and picnics.
• Walter E. Washington Convention Center: This bustling event and conference venue, located 1.4km from the Smithsonian, showcases business vibes and hosts a variety of events, making it a hub for networking and innovation.

Best time to go to Smithsonian Institution

Visitor numbers around Smithsonian Institution is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Smithsonian Institution is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	35.1°F (1.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
November	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smithsonian Institution

Visiting the Smithsonian Institution can be budget-friendly with several money-saving tips. Enjoy free entry to the institution and nearby attractions like the National Mall and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The best time to visit is from December to February when accommodation prices are lower. Saturdays are typically the least expensive days to stay, while Tuesdays are the priciest. Use Expedia to find great rates, reasonable options, and exclusive deals, and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Smithsonian Institution are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Smithsonian Institution is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Smithsonian Institution is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred hotel style. To discover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking for the Smithsonian Institution with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.