Note: This is an overnight in-person program for children and families.
Salute the country’s 250th birthday by taking an all-American road trip at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. Unfold your map, turn on the engine, and follow the road through the museum’s galleries. Along the way, immerse yourself in the new exhibit Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. You’ll play I-Spy and the license plate game, make a pit stop, test your knowledge—and even become a presidential candidate—in a memorable overnight adventure.
Schedule
Evening
- 6:30 - 7 p.m. Check-in
- 7 p.m. Orientation (mandatory attendance)
- 7:30 - 10:45 p.m. American Road Trip Activities
- 10:45 - 11:30 p.m. Get Ready for Bed
- 11:30 p.m. Lights out!
Next Morning
- 7 a.m. Lights on and breakfast served
- 8 a.m. Family Store opens (receive 10% off your purchase with your wristband)
- 9 a.m. Depart from the museum
General Information
- This program is for children ages 8 to 14 years old, accompanied by their adult chaperones (21 or older).
- There must be at least one adult chaperone for every 5 children in any group that registers. No adults without children.
Registration
- Important Note: This sleepover opportunity includes Smithsonian Associates member pricing.
- Program registration will end at 12 p.m. (noon) ET on Friday, July 10, 2026. Registrations must be purchased in advance; no door sales.
- As part of the checkout process, you will be asked to provide adult and child names in your party and the age of each child; have an opportunity to purchase a Smithsonian Sleepovers t-shirt for you and your party ($20 per shirt); and sign a waiver/release form.
- For Military Families: A reduced rate is available for active-duty U.S. military personnel and their families. Please call 202-633-3030 to receive Military Promotion pricing.
- Group sales are available for 10 or more people for $120 per person. Call 202-633-3030 during regular business hours to take advantage.
For additional information on sleepovers, visit SmithsonianSleepovers.org.