Tours and Tickets to Experience National Museum of Natural History

Q: How much does it cost to visit the National Museum of Natural History?

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.

Q: How long does it take to tour the National Museum of Natural History?

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.

Q: What are the must-see exhibits at the National Museum of Natural History?

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).

Q: Do I need to reserve tickets for the National Museum of Natural History?

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.

Q: Can you bring food and drinks into the National Museum of Natural History?

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.

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What are people saying about National Museum of Natural History

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History - Exclusive Guided Tour

Isaac_I, Feb 2026

Well worth it!

Meghan was an amazing guide. She was so knowledgeable and fun. We really enjoyed this tour. Highly recommended.

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History - Exclusive Guided Tour

Ann_M, Jan 2026

Wonderful tour

Our guide was wonderful! Knowledgeable and friendly. Easy to communicate with. I would definitely do this again!

Smithsonian Natural History + Museum of American History 8ppl Max

Phillip_F, Jan 2026

Awsome!!!!

Brenda was fantastic! Nice, easy pace through highlights of both museums. She inquired about our interests and molded tour around them. Very informative. Highly recommended.

Smithsonian Natural History + Air and Space Museum Private Tour

Warawan_C, Jan 2026

Thank you Rebecca!

Rebecca is very lovely and knowledgeable. I enjoy her company today. Really recommend everyone to come to book the tour.

National Museum of Natural History

5.0

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Washington DC

Know before you go

Admission to the museum and most exhibitions is free.
Entrance to the butterfly pavilion is free on Tuesdays.
The museum can be very crowded on Saturdays; during the summer, there’s a useful heat map on the website to help plan your visit.
Dining options include a cafeteria and Café Natural, which serves coffee and a limited food menu.
The wheelchair-accessible entrance to the museum can be found on Constitution Avenue.

Tours and Tickets to Experience National Museum of Natural History

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What are people saying about National Museum of Natural History

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