Smithsonian Garden at the Smithsonian Castle
The Smithsonian Institution Building, affectionately known as "the Castle" Photo: Smithsonian Institution

Celebrate SmithsonianA VIP experience at the Smithsonian

Jun 5 - 8, 2013
Go behind-the-scenes for an insider's look at Smithsonian's treasures, an exclusive tour offered only through Smithsonian Journeys!
Starting at $2,895
Call 855-330-1542
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Overview
  • Enjoy an insider’s look at the Smithsonian’s greatest treasures—from the Hope diamond to the Space Shuttle Discovery—and go behind the scenes at our state-of-the-art collections and research facilities during a gala, one-of-a-kind program at your national museum complex in Washington, D.C.

    Begin with a private, candle-lit welcome dinner in the Great Hall of the Smithsonian Institution Building, affectionately known as The Castle. Travel to the spectacular National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center to view some of history’s most important aircraft and spacecraft. Tour facilities that are not open to the public—our fascinating American Indian collections at the Cultural Resources Center and our living plant collection, including rare orchid species, at the Smithsonian greenhouses. Attend a private briefing on the Smithsonian’s new National Museum of African American History and Culture, now under construction on the National Mall. Conclude with a dazzling after-hours visit of the Institution’s legendary Gem Hall, where twinkling diamonds, rubies and emeralds herald your arrival and a gala dinner is served nearby.

    Best of all, you’ll be guided throughout by Smithsonian’s top curators and collections managers, whose easy conviviality and passion for sharing their vast knowledge transforms this tour into a uniquely immersive experience brimming with unexpected delights.
    • Special Highlights
  • Join Smithsonian's Under Secretary for History, Art and Culture, Dr. Richard Kurin, for an engaging overview of the Institution during an exclusive welcome dinner at the Smithsonian's Castle.
  • Marvel at Smithsonian’s National Gem Collection during an after-hours private viewing at the National Museum of Natural History. You'll see treasures such as the iconic Hope Diamond “the most famous diamond in the world” and the recently acquired Camen Lúcia Ruby, and meet Chief Curator Dr. Jeff Post, who provides a special presentation and joins you for a sumptuous private dinner at the museum.
  • Enjoy an exclusive, private tour of the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center with curators from the National Air and Space Museum, who provide special insight into the Space Shuttle Discovery, plus hundreds of other space and aviation exhibits.
  • Attend a private briefing on the Smithsonian’s new National Museum of African American History and Culture, now under construction on the National Mall.
  • Stay at the Omni Shoreham Hotel, a Washington landmark, located adjacent to beautiful Rock Creek Park and near the Smithsonian’s National Zoo.
    • Don't forget to check out our photo slide show to glimpse the excitement of this special program!
  • View photos by clicking "Next Photo" at top of page!


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