Smithsonian Journeys: A World Apart

The Smithsonian has sought to enrich the lives of Americans since our establishment more than 175 years ago, sharing knowledge about the world through a vibrant ecosystem of museums, publications, media, internationally renowned research programs, and continuing education. Smithsonian Journeys draw on the Institution’s many cultural and scientific endeavors, reflecting the vast knowledge and experience we have gathered over nearly two centuries. And traveling with Smithsonian Journeys Experts offers a deeper dive into a wide variety of subjects, from fine art to natural history. We founded our first observatory in 1890—and now we invite astronomy aficionados to gaze at the night sky from world-class observatories in South America on our Chile Earth and Sky journey, or join us in the path of totality on a solar eclipse tour in 2024: A Journey from Austin to the Texas Hill Country. Wildlife enthusiasts can meet scientists at the Smithsonian’s Punta Culebra Nature Center in Panama on our Panama and Costa Rica by Sea voyage.

If you’ve enjoyed our museums dedicated to Native American history and culture, get an even closer look at our nation’s rich cultural heritage on trips to Pueblo country or Alaska. If your passion is history, encounter it firsthand with seasoned historians on in-depth journeys into past—from cruises to legendary GrecoRoman ruins across the Mediterranean to a poignant exploration of Normandy’s D-Day sites. And for those who treasure lifelong learning, Smithsonian at Oxford is the ultimate continuing education program, offering compelling courses in English literature, archaeology, and more.

For decades, people from all over the country and the world have come to the Smithsonian to nourish their curiosity. Through Smithsonian Journeys, we invite you to come with us to discover the many treasures of the world alongside our experts.