National Museum of Natural History Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the National Museum of Natural History. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

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• Smithsonian Natural History + Air & Space Museum - Exclusive Tour

Admission to the National Museum of Natural History is free, as it’s part of the Smithsonian Institution (which is always free). Some special exhibitions or events may require paid tickets. Guided tours typically cost around US$100, but prices vary depending on the size of the group and tour duration.

On average, visitors spend 2–4 hours touring the National Museum of Natural History. However, you could easily spend an entire day—or two—here, depending on your level of interest in the exhibits and whether you choose to explore special exhibitions.

Some of the National Museum of Natural History’s must-see exhibits include the Hope Diamond in the Gems and Minerals Hall; the Hall of Fossils, which is filled with dinosaur skeletons; and the Ocean Hall, which puts marine life on display (including a life-size model of a North Atlantic right whale).

No, reservations are not required for general admission, as the museum is always free to enter. However, you may need to reserve tickets in advance for special events or seasonal exhibits, such as the Butterfly Pavilion. It’s a good idea to check the museum’s website for information on ticketed exhibitions.

No, outside food and drinks are not allowed in the National Museum of Natural History. There are two on-site cafés where you can purchase food and beverages, though these are not generally considered budget picks. Both cafés are only open around lunchtime, typically from 11am to around 2pm or 3pm.