National Archives Museum Tours and Tickets

Q: How much does it cost to visit the National Archives Museum in 2024?

Entry to the National Archives museum is free. Reservations are not required, but they’re strongly suggested between March and Labor Day to avoid potentially long lines. Some guided tours of Washington DC include a stop at the museum. You can also book a private guided tour of the museum for about US$100.

Q: What are the must-see exhibits at the National Archives Museum?

The must-see exhibits at the National Archives Museum in Washington DC are significant pieces of American history—within the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom are the original founding documents for the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. The Record of Rights gallery has an original 1297 Magna Carta and a 1790 broadside copy of the Bill of Rights on display.

Q: How can I get tickets to the National Archives Museum?

Entry to the National Archives Museum is free. Timed-entry tickets are available online via the attraction’s website, allowing you easy access on arrival. You can also book a guided tour from a provider, which will usually include skip-the-line entry.

Q: What are the hours of operation for the National Archives Museum?

The National Archives Museum’s opening hours are from 10am until 5:30pm daily, with last admission 30 minutes ahead of closing. The museum is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Q: Where is the best place to park near the National Archives Museum?

There are many options for parking near the National Archives Museum, including at Market Square East Garage and the Market Square West Garage, both on D Street SW. There are also garages on Indiana Avenue NW, Pennsylvania Avenue, and E Street.

Q: Is photography allowed inside the National Archives Museum?

Yes, non-flash photography is allowed inside the National Archives Museum. Taking photos in some areas is prohibited, but this is clearly signposted.

Q: How long does it typically take to tour the National Archives Museum?

It typically takes around 1-2 hours to visit the National Archives Museum, depending on how much time you spend reading the information that accompanies the exhibits. Times can vary if you join a tour.

51 results

Best Seller

National Archives Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

1 hourFree Cancellation

4.9

(105)

from $59

Likely to Sell Out

National Archives VIP Skip-The-Line Small Group Guided Tour

1 hourFree Cancellation

4.9

(145)

from $69

250th: National Archives & American History Museum Guided Tour

Experience 250 years of American history on this 3-hour guided walking tour led by a local historian & professional tour guide. Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, where you’ll explore pivotal moments from the American Revolution to the 20th century and beyond. Rather than wandering aimlessly, you’ll follow a carefully curated narrative that makes history engaging, accessible, and relevant. Head to the National Archives Museum, where you’ll enjoy skip-the-line entry. Inside, view the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, some of the most important original documents in world history. Throughout the tour, the small group size allows for meaningful interaction, questions, and discussion, creating a more personal and enriching experience than large group tours.

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250th: National Archives & American History Museum Guided Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(9)

from $75

Special Offer

Skip-the-line DC National Archives VIP ALL ACCESS Guided Tour

Explore the foundation of American democracy on an exclusive tour of the National Archives Museum with skip-the-line access. View the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights up close. Learn how these documents shaped a global superpower, and discover personal letters, speeches, and rare artifacts, including the Emancipation Proclamation and the Magna Carta, on a moving journey through U.S. history.

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Skip-the-line DC National Archives VIP ALL ACCESS Guided Tour

1 hour to 2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

DC Monuments Night Tour with 10+ Stops, National Mall, Tickets

Experience Washington DC from a different perspective on this evening coach tour. Visit multiple sites when the crowds are lower and the atmosphere is a little more relaxed. Discover the highlights of the National Mall, including the White House, the US Capitol, and Lincoln Memorial. Make stops along the way for an up-close look, and learn more from your guide's commentary. Additionally, upgrade to include admission tickets to DC museums (for later, independent sightseeing).

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DC Monuments Night Tour with 10+ Stops, National Mall, Tickets

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(5,465)

from $63

VIP Best of DC with US Capitol + National Archives Reserved Entry

Experience some of the most popular attractions in Washington, DC like an insider on this full-day sightseeing tour. Begin with a tour of the United States Capitol Building; admission tickets are prebooked for a seamless visit. Then, see the city’s most famous landmarks and monuments aboard a comfortable coach, including the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and more. Then, end your tour with a visit to the National Archives Museum.

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VIP Best of DC with US Capitol + National Archives Reserved Entry

8 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.6

(2,539)

from $129

Abraham Lincoln Life, Legacy and Assassination Tour

Follow in the footsteps of Abraham Lincoln on this tour through Washington, DC, exploring the assassination of America's 16th President. Beginning near the National Archives, learn about Lincoln's presidency, the Civil War, and the dramatic events of April 14, 1865. Visit key locations connected to Lincoln and John Wilkes Booth, including the Willard Hotel, National Theatre, National Hotel, Chinatown, and the Lincoln Memorial. Near Wok and Roll, the site of the former Surratt Boarding House, discover where Booth and his co-conspirators planned the assassination plot. The tour concludes in the Ford's Theatre district with exterior visits to Ford's Theatre and Petersen House, where Lincoln was taken after the shooting and died the following morning. The tour does not enter either site, but guests may explore the area after the tour. Between May 28 and August 31, Ford's Theatre's interior is closed for repairs. During this time, the tour will visit the exterior of the theatre only.

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Abraham Lincoln Life, Legacy and Assassination Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

3.6

(15)

from $69

See Washington DC's highlights, whilst beating the crowds, on this customised, private sightseeing tour. Pick a departure time that works best for you, meet your guide at your preferred location, and hop aboard a luxury SUV or Sprinter van. Options of where to visit include the White House, US Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, and much more—and will learn the stories behind the sights from your guide.

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Private Washington DC City Tour

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(1,620)

from $550

Per group

Get a panoramic look at Washington DC—and enjoy a hassle-free way to check off its top sights—on this half-day sightseeing tour by bus. Listen to live narration as you see dozens of top attractions, such as the Lincoln Memorial, the monuments of the National Mall, and more. Additionally, stop for a closer look at eight top attractions, including the White House, Capitol, and Vietnam Memorial. Upgrade to visit George Washington's Mount Vernon, too.

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Grand Tour of Washington, D.C.

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.2

(749)

from $59

Washington DC’s historic center spans a large area and can be difficult to see on foot. This electric bike tour allows you to cover more ground and cycle past highlights such as the Smithsonian museums, the Capitol Building, the White House, and Tidal Basin. With a motor to assist as you pedal, you’re free to concentrate on the city’s notable sights and listen as your guide points out hidden treasures you might not notice on your own.

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Monumental Electric Bike Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.6

(101)

from $89

Likely to Sell Out

This condensed tour is designed for those who are short on time and would like to have an overview of the essential DC. It is a one hour and half live guided sightseeing tour that that is fun and informative. It will give you the opportunity to explore two of the leading landmarks in the capital city: US capitol and White House. At each of those two stops you will get a chance to step off, walk around and take pictures. After that, you will be treated to a bus ride that will drive by the other top tourist sites and main attractions of the capital city such as Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Memorial, Korean War Memorial and many more. You will enjoy a once in a lifetime experience that you will remember for a long time.

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2 hours Mini Tour of Washington DC

12 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(5)

from $49

Special Offer

Washington DC Night-Time City Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

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Washington DC "See the City" Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour

Experience the history and scale of Washington DC—and quickly travel between destinations—on a fun and time-saving Segway tour. Headsets ensure you can hear your guide’s insightful commentary as you zip past prominent buildings, historic sights, and top DC monuments. This tour is ideal for visitors who want to get a good overview of the city, in order to know where to explore in more depth later.

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Washington DC "See the City" Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.9

(1,972)

from $70

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Skip-the-Line National Archives VIP ALL ACCESS Tour Semi-Private

1 hour to 2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Washington DC Small-Group Sightseeing Experience

4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(1,297)

from $99

Excursion to Washington from New York in 1 day

Visit Washington, D.C. with a Spanish-speaking guide during this day trip from New York. Visit the memorial to Martin Luther King, Jr., and the monument to Thomas Jefferson. Then take a tour of the monuments to the Korean War, President Lincoln, the Vietnam War, and President Washington. See the prestigious Georgetown University and stop at the White House, then have free time for lunch (own expense) and visit the Air and Space Museum. All entrance fees are included.

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Excursion to Washington from New York in 1 day

15 hoursFree Cancellation

4.8

(417)

from $105

Small Group National Mall Night Tour with 10 Top Attractions

Enjoy Washington DC’s monuments and landmarks lit up after dark, and see side of the capital city many visitors miss, on this evening highlights tour. Have the opportunity to stop outside 10 top DC landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial, White House, and US Capitol. As you travel between attractions, learn details about the landmarks and memorials from your driver-guide. Then, at each stop, have time to take photos and explore on your own.

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Small Group National Mall Night Tour with 10 Top Attractions

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(1,702)

from $99

2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill

2 hoursFree Cancellation

5.0

(12)

from $55

Experience Washington, D.C. at Night! Explore iconic landmarks like the Lincoln, Jefferson, MLK Jr., Iwo Jima, Vietnam & Korean War Memorials, and more — all beautifully lit under the night sky. This is more than a tour. It’s a meaningful journey, made personal with passionate guides who walk with you at every stop, sharing powerful stories that bring each site to life. With over 20 years as a trusted family-run company, we know how to navigate the city with ease and make every moment smooth, safe, and unforgettable — no matter the season or what’s happening in town. Perfect for families and travelers of all ages, we’re here to turn your evening into a memory you’ll always treasure. Book today and discover D.C. with the team that brings the capital to life!

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Small Group Washington DC Night Tour

3 hoursFree Cancellation

4.9

(8)

from $80

Price varies by group size

New York and Washington Self Guided Narrated Tours with AI

With this AI app you're no longer restricted to crowded group tours or rigid scripts. Explore iconic sites like Times Square and the National Mall—or dive deep into lesser-known landmarks and hidden urban parks. Ask about literally anything that catches your eye—from a historic district to a secret street corner or a towering skyscraper. The city's secrets are yours to uncover. Point & Discover: Snap a photo of any monument or museum masterpiece to instantly receive a captivating and accurate story. It’s like having a historian in your pocket! Ultimate Freedom: Navigate seamlessly with interactive map-based audio tours. Your schedule, your pace, your rules. Choose Your Vibe: Select a narrator persona that matches your style—from a deep-diving scholar to a fun companion for the kids. Get Started: 7 Days of Premium Access available instantly for iPhone and Android.

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New York and Washington Self Guided Narrated Tours with AI

7 daysFree Cancellation

5.0

from $12

Discover a side of Washington DC’s past that most history books leave out—and hear the city’s most salacious and sordid stories—on this immersive walking tour. Pick between afternoon and evening start times, and set out on foot. As you stroll along major arteries like Pennsylvania Avenue, learn about the area’s past as a red-light district, hear stories about the madams who shaped the city, and glimpse a number of highlight landmarks.

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The "Madams of DC" Guided Walking Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

5.0

(77)

from $30

Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops

Take a hop-on hop-off Washington DC trolley tour to explore the nation’s capital at your own pace. The route encompasses the city’s top attractions, including the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and more. Just hop off at any stop when you want to explore, and then hop back on the trolley to continue around the city. You can also upgrade to include Arlington National Cemetery entry.

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Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

4.1

(2,727)

from $55

Washington DC Night-Time City Bus Tour with Optional Mount Vernon

There's a certain magic to Washington DC that can only be experienced at night, when highlights like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and White House are all illuminated after dark. On this evening bus tour, you'll see the city after the sun has gone down and travel without the crowds. As you go, learn more from your guide's narration—and even upgrade to add on a visit to George Washington's Mount Vernon.

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Washington DC Night-Time City Bus Tour with Optional Mount Vernon

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

3.8

(111)

from $59

Small Group Washington DC Tour with Changing of the Guard

Washington, DC’s rich and storied history runs the gamut of political intrigue, scandals, murders, and some of the greatest moments in U.S. history. This fully narrated tour combines walking and driving to major sites like the White House, the Pentagon FBI building, and the National Archives. Guides narrate the stops as you travel, and the tour is available in Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.

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Small Group Washington DC Tour with Changing of the Guard

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

4.7

(144)

from $80

Price varies by group size

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What are people saying about National Archives Museum

VIP Best of DC with US Capitol + National Archives Reserved Entry

Stacey_S, May 2026

Washington DC 8 hour tour

Great experience! Tour guide was very knowledgeable and passionate about sharing the details of the city, monuments, etc. bus was nice and clean. Bus driver was friendly.

Skip-the-Line National Archives VIP ALL ACCESS Tour Semi-Private

Pamela_S, Jun 2026

History not to be missed!

Excellent presented information with knowledgable, guide Ryan. Included unique historical details and answers to all questions. Impressive collections of documents and objects.

National Archives VIP Skip-The-Line Small Group Guided Tour

Joan_R, Jun 2026

Highly recommend this tour

Sara was so good so well informed and the backland history and linkages — superb She gave us appropriate time to drink in surroundings before giving us more facts

National Archives VIP Skip-The-Line Small Group Guided Tour

Karen_B, May 2026

Private vs small group tour

It was very informative. The only negative was I booked a private tour for 5 and we were put in a small group tour for 7 without being notified.

VIP Best of DC with US Capitol + National Archives Reserved Entry

Mark_B, May 2026

DC trip

Britany was friendly and very knowledgeable about all the sites we visited. Best way to see many sites in one day. Would recommend the tour to anyone seeing DC. We did the 8 hr tour with the boat ride. Had only 45 minutes for lunch after the boat ride so pre ordering at one of the local restaurants 15 minutes prior will allow you more time.