Smithsonian Castle on the Mall

Smithsonian University Travel Programs

Announcing our newest collaboration, putting a Smithsonian lens on worldwide learning

Discover a new place alongside world-class scientists, historians, and preservationists with our limited collection of Smithsonian University Travel Programs. These special itineraries are developed by experts at WorldStrides and the world-renowned Smithsonian Institution. Take a behind-the-scenes approach at the forefront of ideas and perspectives with rich travel experiences that span the history, art, culture, science, and nature of the world.

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You're in good company The Smithsonian you don't know

So much more than museums on the National Mall in D.C.! Smithsonian's global research is taking place in dozens of countries around the world, uncovering new discoveries every day. See this learning in action.

Treated like a King Seriously accessible

With Smithsonian's connections, you’ll go "behind the ropes" at some of the most iconic sites in the world. And you’ll do it with engaging experts who will show you their work with a passion that brings more meaning and authenticity to your travel experience.

Partnership matters Partnership matters

Our goal is to function as a seamless extension of your university staff. That means you get the behind-the-scenes power of our sizeable WorldStrides team, and the convenience of working with a single person—your own dedicated account manager.

We provide turnkey service We provide turnkey service.

You name it, we've thought of it. In addition to program development and day-to-day logistics, we routinely shoulder the responsibilities of visa processing, registration, hedging currency, and so much more.

Discover why over 6 million students have traveled with us.

 Discover Why

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How the Program Works

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How the Program Works

Lead a Group

Most Smithsonian University Travel Programs are designed as faculty-led experiences for university students. Work with our program development team to choose the destination that’s right for your students and adapt the program to meet your schedule and needs. Then, travel together as a class or group from your university!

Join a Group

Small groups or individuals can also join a limited number of pre-scheduled Explorers programs, where students from universities all over the United States learn together on a single trip. Learn more about our 2017 January and June Explorers programs today!

Costa Rica: Biodiversity Research – January 2-8, 2017

Peru: Lessons From an Empire – January 2-10, 2017

Iceland: A Geologic and Environmental Wonder – June 5-12, 2017

Please note: Small groups of students from a single university may qualify a faculty member to travel for free.

Our Collaboration

NASA Control - SmithsonianThe Smithsonian Institution is the largest museum and research complex in the world. As a global network committed to discovery and a leader in education, it both grounds us and inspires us. Travel is our bridge to this network. That’s why Smithsonian and WorldStrides have come together to create this unique collection of itineraries, designed for faculty-led groups.

 

In cooperation with places like the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum and Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama, we have jointly crafted programs that engage university students on an academic level. Your group will participate in guided tours that  go deeper, visit facilities where researchers are working in their field, and meet experts who can help connect what students are learning in the classroom to the lessons of the larger world. Inspire your students and distinguish your academic institution with Smithsonian University Travel Programs.

Interested in getting more information about a WorldStrides destination?