Smithsonian Institution Tours and Activities

Things to do near Smithsonian Institution

While visiting the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., explore its renowned museums, including the Smithsonian National Museum, and enjoy interactive exhibitions that captivate all ages. Take advantage of nearby attractions, indulge in shopping, and catch a live theatre performance to enhance your experience. With a rich array of sights and activities, your trip to the Smithsonian will be both educational and entertaining.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Union Station Shopping Center, just 161m away, offering a lively atmosphere with entertainment and family-friendly options. CityCenterDC and Union Market are also nearby at 1.4km, featuring a mix of business and city vibes for a delightful shopping experience.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Capital One Arena, perfect for catching a game or concert. For a touch of luxury, visit the Cosmos Club, where you can enjoy fine dining and relaxation. If you prefer the outdoors, East Potomac Golf Course offers a scenic spot for a round of golf.

Adventure

For an adventurous outing, explore Soapstone Valley Park, a scenic hiking trail 6.4km from the Smithsonian Institution. If tennis is your game, check out the Rock Creek Tennis Center or East Potomac Tennis Center, both offering thrilling matches and vibrant atmospheres within a short distance.

Nightlife

At night, the Smithsonian area buzzes with excitement. The Anthem, Ford's Theatre, and Warner Theatre offer captivating performances and vibrant atmospheres, all within a short distance. Enjoy a mix of culture and entertainment, perfect for a memorable night out with family or friends.

Find the best attractions near Smithsonian Institution

Exploring the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., offers a delightful mix of memorials, historic buildings, and world-class museums, perfect for those seeking cultural and family experiences. Nearby attractions, including the renowned Space Museum, enhance your visit. Additionally, there are several hotels in close proximity, making it easy to immerse yourself in the rich offerings of this iconic destination.

• National Mall: This expansive national park offers a blend of adventure and stunning scenery. Stroll among iconic monuments and memorials, and enjoy the outdoor atmosphere where history comes alive, just 1.6km from the Smithsonian Institution.
• White House: As the residence of the U.S. President, the White House is steeped in cultural significance. Located 3.2km away, it stands as a symbol of American history and governance, offering guided tours that delve into its rich past.
• Walter E. Washington Convention Center: This modern event venue, situated 1.4km away, is a hub of business activity. It hosts a variety of conferences and exhibitions, showcasing the bustling professional vibe of Washington, D.C.

Best time to go to Smithsonian Institution

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	Slightly High	Slightly High
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	Average	Average
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

When planning your visit to the Smithsonian Institution, consider travelling between December and February for lower accommodation rates. Fridays are the most affordable days to stay, while Tuesdays are pricier. Use Expedia to filter options by budget and eco-certification for sustainable stays. Combine your hotel bookings with flights and activities for package deals. Take advantage of free activities at the Smithsonian museums, which offer no-cost admission, and explore the city using public transport or by walking to save money while enjoying the sights.

• 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 June, 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 Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Smithsonian Institution is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the most affordable prices and promotions, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation near the Smithsonian Institution with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.