Trusted by 1,000+ trip planners
Best Culture & Museums in Washington, D.C.
Explore the top-rated culture & museums in Washington, D.C.. Our curated guide features 10 highly-rated experiences, averaging 5 stars, to help you plan the perfect visit.
JD
MK
AS
RW
4.9/5 from 200+ reviews
2,847
trips planned this month
Top 10 Ranked
Best Culture & Museums in Washington, D.C.
Our expertly curated list of the best culture & museums in Washington, D.C., ranked by traveler reviews and ratings.
#1
Top Rated
National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Tour 6ppl Max
5 (34)
From $175 USD
This 5.5 hour Semi-Private (8 Guest Max.) guided combo tour welcomes guests to skip-the-line and experience two essential museums in Washington DC. The best way to understand the who and the what of the United States! Your guide will show you the documents and the people that have defined this country. This tour has the heroes and villains of history, culture, progress, and art of the USA. Highlights often include (but are not limited to): -The original Declaration of Independence -The Constitution -The Bill of Rights -1297 Magna Carta -Presidential Portraits -20th Century American -Obama Portraits -Pocahontas Portrait -Conservation Labs -Works by Mary Cassatt, Edward Hopper, Andy Warhol, and Norman Rockwell
#2
Top Rated
Arlington Cemetery Private Tour
5 (30)
From $875 USD
Experience Arlington Cemetery with a Veteran guide trained in military history. Observe the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Visit each of the Kennedy graves. Discover Robert E. Lee's mansion upon the grounds and his wife's garden where the first burials took place. Discuss the beginning of the cemetery during the Civil War and its evolution through all of our nations conflicts. US federal or state government issued photo identification or passport is required for entry into Arlington National Cemetery.
#3
Top Rated
National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum Tour: 8ppl Max
5 (17)
From $95 USD
Visit the National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum on a 2.5 hour small group (8 Guest Maximum) guided tour. Discover the best of American-made works all under one roof. Two of Washington’s most iconic museums take up residence in the historical Old Patent Office Building, where history and art collide.
#4
Top Rated
Private 3 Hour Highlights Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests
5 (17)
From $525 USD
Embark on an exhilarating 3-hour journey through the heart of Washington DC with Perfect Private Tours! This exclusive private tour for up to 10 guests offers an unforgettable experience, unlocking hidden wonders and iconic landmarks. With your own expert guide, you’ll witness the grandeur of the National Mall, including the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Capitol Building. As we cruise through the city’s historic streets, your guide will share captivating tales of American history, presidents, and the pivotal moments that shaped the nation. For 4 guests or fewer, you’ll enjoy a ride in a luxury SUV. For 5 to 10 guests, a Mercedes Sprinter van ensures a comfortable experience. Bottled water is included, keeping you refreshed along the way. Let us whisk you through DC on a personalized journey where every moment is an adventure. Reserve your private tour now and explore the nation's capital like a VIP!
Plan Together
Start Planning Your Washington, D.C. Trip
Build the perfect itinerary, find activities, track your budget, and plan an unforgettable experience with friends.
Plan Your Trip Free
#5
Top Rated
Washington DC 3 Hour Day Tour
5 (6)
From $250 USD
Want a quick overview of the National Mall? Then this is the tour for you. Learn the history of how the mall came into existence. Ride along the inauguration parade route, Pennsylvania Avenue, and find out how Thomas Jefferson influenced part of its look. Learn how 2 men a century apart created the layout for the Nation's Capital. At the end, choose to return to your hotel or get dropped off at one of the Smithsonian Museums.
#6
Top Rated
Private 4-Hour Walking Tour Exploring Historic Georgetown
5 (5)
From $185 USD
On this leisurely walking tour, be immersed in one of the most historically significant parts of Washington D.C. Delve into Georgetown's colonial and Federal period history with a private guide, who will bring to life stories of long-standing traditions, high society and world politics. Home to world-class shopping, rich history, five-star restaurants and one of the world’s best universities, Georgetown simply cannot be missed.
#7
Top Rated
Customizable Private Night Tour of Washington DC
5 (4)
From $940 USD
Explore the famous landmarks of Washington DC on a privately guided, 3 to 4 hour tour. Save time by hopping in & out of an air-conditioned/heated vehicle with a professional chauffeur! Enjoy an educational yet entertaining narrated history of Washington, DC. Ask our knowledgeable tour guides questions as you explore the famous memorials! Highly recommended locations to visit are the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Monument, and many other landmarks to choose from! You may change your mind and change the itinerary at any time. We offer our clients complimentary snacks & waters!
#8
Top Rated
Colonial Williamsburg Private Tour
5 (2)
From $1740 USD
Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown, VA are each living representation of Colonial America. Together, these towns form the Historic Triangle, scenically connected by the 23-mile Colonial Parkway. Your experience will begin with a scenic trip from DC to Jamestown – England’s first permanent settlement in America as well as the first capital of Virginia. Your tour guide will escort you through Historic Jamestown to observe the remnants of Fort James, site of the first permanent English settlement in North America! Together we will visit the reconstructed Glasshouse of 1608 and walk in the footsteps of Captain John Smith and Pocahontas. Next, you will visit Colonial Williamsburg where you will enjoy a guided walk through the world's largest living history museum. Before heading back to DC, you will visit Yorktown and observe the battlefield where General George Washington led the Continental Army to defeat British General Cornwallis and his troops during the Revolutionary War.
#9
Top Rated
Private Half Day Tour Of Washington DC
5 (2)
From $350 USD
Capital City Tours offers you a candid sightseeing tours of Washington DC. A touring experience meant to ensure that you never feel left in the crowd. Perfect fit for small groups of friends and family! Better as a intimate tour for a date on your vacation! Built for your customization! See what you want, how you want, at the pace you want w/ an expert guide there to detail all the amazing history and to capture the magic moments of your experience. The perfect tour for you and a few, book with Capital City Tours today!
#10
Top Rated
Private Mount Vernon Tour for up to 10 Guests
5 (2)
From $825 USD
Embark on a historical journey to Mount Vernon, the estate of George Washington. This captivating tour brings history, culture, and natural beauty together as you explore the mansion, gardens, and grounds that Washington personally designed, offering stunning views of the Potomac River. Step back in time as you tour the preserved mansion, furnished with 18th-century period pieces. Learn about Washington's life, leadership, and impact on the United States from your knowledgeable guide. Visit the Slave Quarters and Memorial to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of Mount Vernon's history. For 4 guests or fewer, you’ll ride in a luxury SUV. For 5 to 10 guests, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride in a Mercedes Sprinter van. This immersive experience provides a unique glimpse into the life of one of America's greatest figures.
Review counts and ratings based on Viator and Tripadvisor data
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do culture & museums cost in Washington, D.C.?
Culture & Museums in Washington, D.C. range from $95 to $1740, with an average price of $596. The highest-rated option is "National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Tour 6ppl Max" with a 5-star rating.
What are the best culture & museums in Washington, D.C.?
Washington, D.C. has 10 culture & museums available, averaging 5 stars across 119 reviews. The top-rated experience is "National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Tour 6ppl Max".
How do I plan a trip to Washington, D.C.?
Plan Harmony makes it easy to organize your Washington, D.C. trip. Browse experiences, build a collaborative itinerary with friends, and track your budget in one place.
More Things To Do in Washington, D.C.
Ready to explore Washington, D.C.?
Start planning your trip with Plan Harmony and create the perfect itinerary with your travel companions.
Plan Your Washington, D.C. TripReady for your next adventure?
Plan your next Washington, D.C. adventure together
Join thousands of travelers who plan smarter, not harder. Create your first trip in minutes.
Free forever plan
4.9/5 rating
No credit card required