Smithsonian Institution Tours

Things to do near Smithsonian Institution

During your daytime visit to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., explore major attractions like the Smithsonian National Museum. Enjoy a variety of activities including art exhibitions, shopping, and nearby theaters. Plan your trip around available guided tours to enhance your experience while immersing yourself in the rich cultural offerings of this iconic destination.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Union Station Shopping Center, only 0.1 mile away, offering entertainment and family vibes. CityCenterDC and Union Market are both 0.9 miles away, featuring a mix of business and city vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore other nearby shopping options as well.

Recreation

At Capital One Arena, immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of sports events, just 0.7 miles from the Smithsonian. For a touch of luxury, visit the Cosmos Club, two miles away, offering exclusive amenities. Enjoy the outdoors at East Potomac Golf Course, also two miles away, perfect for a relaxing day on the greens.

Adventure

Explore Soapstone Valley Park's scenic hiking trail, located 4 miles from the Smithsonian Institution, for a refreshing outdoor adventure. Alternatively, enjoy a game at the East Potomac Tennis Center, only 2 miles away, or challenge yourself at the Rock Creek Tennis Center, also 4 miles distant.

Nightlife

The vibrant nightlife near the Smithsonian Institution offers a range of theatrical experiences. Enjoy a show at The Anthem, just 2 miles away, or catch a performance at Ford's Theatre and Warner Theatre, both within a mile. Each venue exudes culture and romance, perfect for a memorable evening.

Find the best attractions near Smithsonian Institution

When visiting the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., immerse yourself in a blend of culture and history by exploring renowned Smithsonian museums and nearby attractions. From iconic memorials to historic government buildings, there's something for everyone, whether you're traveling solo or with family. Don't miss out on the best attractions that showcase the rich heritage and educational treasures of this vibrant area.

• National Mall: A beautiful national park located 1 mile from the Smithsonian Institution, the National Mall offers stunning outdoor scenery and a variety of adventures. It's home to iconic monuments, memorials, and expansive green spaces, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
• White House: Situated 2 miles away, the White House is the historic residence of the U.S. President. This symbol of American democracy exudes cultural significance, and while tours are limited, the exterior view is a must-see for any visitor.
• Walter E. Washington Convention Center: Located 0.9 miles from the Smithsonian, this modern event venue hosts a variety of conferences and exhibitions, embodying the vibrant business atmosphere of D.C. It’s a key hub for professional gatherings.

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	Slightly High
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	Average
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 on your trip to the Smithsonian Institution, consider visiting between December and February when hotel prices are lower, especially on Fridays. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly hotel options by sorting prices from low to high, and check for Eco-certified hotels. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings through package deals. Join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash on future bookings. Additionally, take advantage of free attractions and public transport to explore the area 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 June, 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 choices based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will show you a range of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially 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.