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.

Reasons to Travel With Smithsonian Journeys

1. The Smithsonian Difference

Each itinerary is crafted to provide an in-depth, authentic, and unique experience, and many feature special access to Smithsonian research, people, and facilities around the world. Our journeys are known for their world-class service; commitment to safety; and knowledgeable and experienced trip staff.

2. Travel With Our Experts

Smithsonian Journeys Experts bring meaningful enrichment and an insider perspective to every trip, engaging with our travelers throughout the journey.

3. Small Groups, Big Experiences

Almost all of our land trips feature groups of 12 to 24 people, allowing guests to get up close to renowned sites, and get to know local people and fellow travelers.

4. The Smithsonian Community

Our travelers are intellectually curious and adventurous lifelong learners who share a passion for exploration. The friendships that develop on tour are often a lasting element of the experience.

5. Great Value

Once you add up everything we include—experts, enrichment, most meals, excursions, transfers, most gratuities, and even airfare-inclusive pricing on many trips—you’ll find that our trips offer an exceptional experience at a very good value.

6. Supporting the Smithsonian Mission

When you travel with Smithsonian Journeys, your participation supports Smithsonian's mission to preserve natural and cultural heritage, drive research, and engage and inspire people on critical issues affecting our nation and world.

7. Sustaining Our Planet

With Smithsonian Journeys, you have the comfort of knowing that you are traveling with an organization that is committed to sustaining the character and biodiversity of the places we visit by selecting partners and suppliers who meet our standards for responsible travel and supporting regional economies. We believe that Smithsonian's global work in the area of research, engaging the public, and mitigating our carbon footprint and the impact of climate change on our facilities and collections can lead to solutions that make life on this planet more sustainable.

8. Peace of Mind

The well-being of our guests, staff members, and partners has always been our highest priority. We have implemented health and safety measures across all facets of our programs. To learn more, visit SmithsonianJourneys.org/Safety-Protocols.

Michelle was super prepared, super knowledgeable, super insightful, and an expert in every way. She is magnetic and dynamic, and an exceptional speaker.

– Smithsonian Journeys traveler