Smithsonian Institution Tours

Things to do near Smithsonian Institution

At the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including art exhibitions, shopping, and theater performances. Key attractions include the iconic Smithsonian National Museum, offering daytime visits and guided trips. Make sure to explore the diverse offerings and plan your visit to experience the rich cultural and historical significance of this renowned institution.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Union Station Shopping Center, just 161m away, offering a lively atmosphere with entertainment and family vibes. CityCenterDC and Union Market are both 1.4km away, featuring a great mix of shopping and dining options, perfect for souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

Experience the excitement at Capital One Arena, just 1.1km from the Smithsonian, where you can catch a game or event. Enjoy the luxury ambiance at the Cosmos Club, 3.2km away, or embrace the outdoor vibes at East Potomac Golf Course, also 3.2km from your destination.

Adventure

Embark on an invigorating hike at Soapstone Valley Park, located 6.4km from the Smithsonian Institution, where you can enjoy scenic trails and immerse yourself in nature. For tennis enthusiasts, both the Rock Creek Tennis Center and East Potomac Tennis Center, located 6.4km and 3.2km away respectively, offer exciting matches and adventure vibes.

Nightlife

The nightlife near the Smithsonian Institution is vibrant and cultural. Enjoy a show at The Anthem, just 3.2km away, or catch a performance at Ford's Theatre, 1.6km away. For more entertainment, the Warner Theatre, also 1.6km away, offers a romantic atmosphere perfect for a night out.

Find the best attractions near Smithsonian Institution

While visiting the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., you'll find an array of attractions including memorials, historic buildings, and museums. This cultural hub offers a family-friendly experience with numerous Smithsonian museums to explore. Don't miss nearby attractions and the stunning architecture of the museum buildings, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a rich cultural and historical experience.

• National Mall: A sprawling park that serves as the heart of the nation, the National Mall features iconic monuments and memorials set against beautiful greenery. Perfect for leisurely strolls and outdoor adventures, it's a must-see for its breathtaking scenery and rich history.
• White House: As the official residence of the U.S. President, the White House is a symbol of American culture and history. Visitors can admire its stunning architecture and learn about the country's political heritage from a distance, capturing a glimpse of the iconic building.
• Walter E. Washington Convention Center: This modern event venue hosts a variety of conferences and exhibitions, making it a hub for business and networking. Its sleek design and spacious facilities offer a unique experience for professionals and visitors alike.

Best time to go to Smithsonian Institution

The best time to visit Smithsonian Institution can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Smithsonian Institution falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Smithsonian Institution falls in January, 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	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	Average	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

To save money during your visit to the Smithsonian Institution, consider traveling between December and February for lower accommodation rates, with Fridays being the cheapest days to stay. Utilize Expedia to find budget-friendly hotels by applying filters for eco-certified options and sorting by price. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal for additional savings. Don’t forget to explore the many free activities at the Smithsonian, making the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

• 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 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 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 best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay near the Smithsonian Institution with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.