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Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Natural History Experiences for the Nation's Visiting Youth Groups

The Hope Diamond necklace, featuring a large blue diamond encircled by smaller white diamonds.
The Hope Diamond is renowned for its rare color and rich history. It is one of the "must-sees" at the museum. NMNH G3551, Department of Mineral Sciences, Smithsonian Institution. Photo by Chip Clark.

Join us as we pilot self-guided experiences for student and youth groups this May and June!

  • Designed for groups with 50 to 250 middle and/or high school age participants
  • Slots available on Wednesdays and Thursdays, May 1 to June 13, 2024. Slots also available Monday to Friday, June 17 to 28, 2024.
  • Four available entry times per day: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m.
  • Free, but advanced registration is required

Registered Groups Receive:

  • Museum Educators to greet and orient your group when you arrive at the museum
  • Printed self-guided highlights tour materials
  • An optional self-guided deep dive experience into the Sant Ocean Hall

One chaperone for every 10 students is required. Chaperone participation is important for a successful experience!

If you have questions, email us at NMNHschoolprograms@si.edu or call 202-633-4039 for more information.

Please Arrive on Time

Due to the large number of groups entering the museum, resources will not be available to registered self-guided groups that arrive after their designated time. Groups that arrive after their designated time may still visit the museum as general visitors. Self-guided materials will not be available for late arrivals.

After registering you will receive an automatic email confirming your submission. An email with detailed visit information, including arrival process and bus drop-off/pick-up information will be sent to you to help you plan your visit.
 

All children (under the age of 18) must be accompanied by an adult chaperone. When accompanying children, one (1) adult can chaperone up to a maximum of ten (10) children.

  • All groups must enter the museum through the general entry line.
  • To speed entry into the building, carry as little as possible (backpacks, bags, etc.). Security checks are required of museum visitors. For more information on permissible items can be found at our Visitor Tips page.

The museum's Atrium Café and Ocean Terrace Café are available for groups to purchase food during their visit. The most up-to-date information on the operating status, hours, and offerings can be found on the Dining & Shopping page.  

Café seating is reserved for visitors who purchase food and brown bag lunches may not be eaten within the museum.  

We do not offer storage or eating facilities for brown bag lunches inside the museum, and all food and drink must be in sealed containers if being brought into the museum. We recommend picnicking on the National Mall.

Group meal vouchers are available for advance purchase. For more information contact Smithsonian Enterprises Group Sales.
 

For groups not registered for a Natural History Self-Guided Experience or a registered school program, we recommend printing museum maps for your group. Get printable museum maps here.

The museum's entrances, exhibitions, and restrooms are fully accessible. See our accessibility page for specific amenities.

The best time to plan a quieter visit is during the winter months (January and February). If you plan a visit for the spring months (March through June), which are very crowded, your group may require extra supervision and you might require additional time for your visit.