Smithsonian Institution Tours

Things to do near Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. offers a variety of engaging activities for visitors. Beyond its renowned museums, you can explore nearby shopping venues, enjoy lively theater performances, and partake in diverse entertainment options. Whether you're looking to browse unique stores or catch a show, there's something for everyone in this vibrant cultural hub.

Food and drinks

For a unique experience, visit District Winery for exquisite local wines, just 2 miles from the Smithsonian. If you're up for a short drive, George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill, 14 miles away, offers a taste of history with its spirits.

Shopping

Union Station Shopping Center is a vibrant destination only 0.1 mile away, offering family-friendly shops and entertainment. CityCenterDC, located 0.9 mile away, provides a mix of city vibes with numerous boutiques. Union Market, also 0.9 mile away, features local vendors in a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Capital One Arena with live sports events. Indulge in the luxury ambiance of the Cosmos Club, perfect for relaxation. For a serene escape, visit Potomac River Waterfront Park, where you can unwind with scenic views and tranquil walks along the waterfront.

Adventure

Embark on the Greenstone Ridge Trail, a scenic hiking experience located 1 mile from the Smithsonian Institution, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For adrenaline seekers, the Adventure Park at Sandy Spring and Go Ape Treehouse Adventure Course, both 16 miles away, offer thrilling ziplining and treetop walks amidst nature.

Nightlife

At the Kennedy Center, enjoy captivating performances in a romantic setting just 3 miles away. The United States Naval Observatory offers a family-friendly experience with stargazing fun, located 4 miles from the Smithsonian. For a thrilling ride, the Capital Wheel, 8 miles away, provides adventurous views of the city.

Find the best attractions near Smithsonian Institution

When visiting the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., you'll find a wealth of attractions, including urban parks, memorials, and modern colleges. Explore renowned Smithsonian museums and the National Mall for a rich cultural and outdoor experience that caters to families and travelers alike. Don't miss the art museum to complete your visit, making the most of your time in this iconic area.

• White House: Visit the iconic residence of the President of the United States, a symbol of American democracy. Explore its rich history and stunning architecture just 2 miles from the Smithsonian Institution, where you can soak in the cultural vibes of this historic landmark.
• National Mall: Enjoy the expansive green space and stunning monuments of this national park located just 1 mile away. The National Mall offers a perfect blend of adventure and scenery, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
• Walter E. Washington Convention Center: This modern event venue, located 0.9 miles from the Smithsonian, hosts various conferences and exhibitions. Experience the dynamic business atmosphere while enjoying its impressive architecture.

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 moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Smithsonian Institution falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately 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	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
March	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
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	Moderately High	Average
July	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
August	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
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	Moderately Low	Average
December	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smithsonian Institution

Visiting the Smithsonian Institution can be budget-friendly, as entry is free. Nearby attractions like the National Mall and the National Museum of African American History and Culture also have no admission fees. To save on travel costs, consider visiting in August or December to January when prices are lower. Use Expedia to find affordable accommodations, filter by eco-certified options, and take advantage of package deals to combine your hotel and flights. Joining Expedia's One Key membership offers exclusive discounts and allows you to earn OneKeyCash for future trips.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Smithsonian Institution are August and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to May, where prices are slightly higher.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you customize your travel preferences by setting your budget and choosing your desired location, among other options. You can easily sort the results by price, so the most affordable hotels appear at the top of your list. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will show you a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• 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.
• Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.