Smithsonian Journeys
Encyclopedia
Smithsonian Journeys, the Smithsonian Institution’s Travel Program, offers 200+ worldwide learning vacations led by experts and experienced guides. Established in 1970, Smithsonian Journeys is a benefit of Smithsonian membership.
, and Smithsonian Journeys extends the Institution’s learning opportunities through educational travel worldwide. With over 200 departures annually, Smithsonian Journeys are designed to engage members in the broad vision and wide ranging interests of the Smithsonian. Participation benefits the work of the Smithsonian’s 19 museum
s and nine research center
s.
s scheduled prior to visiting sites, informal talks over meals, and on-site discussions with local guides.
History and Background
Learning is the hallmark of the Smithsonian InstitutionSmithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is an educational and research institute and associated museum complex, administered and funded by the government of the United States and by funds from its endowment, contributions, and profits from its retail operations, concessions, licensing activities, and magazines...
, and Smithsonian Journeys extends the Institution’s learning opportunities through educational travel worldwide. With over 200 departures annually, Smithsonian Journeys are designed to engage members in the broad vision and wide ranging interests of the Smithsonian. Participation benefits the work of the Smithsonian’s 19 museum
Museum
A museum is an institution that cares for a collection of artifacts and other objects of scientific, artistic, cultural, or historical importance and makes them available for public viewing through exhibits that may be permanent or temporary. Most large museums are located in major cities...
s and nine research center
Research center
A research center is a facility or building dedicated to research, commonly with the focus on a specific area. There are over 14,000 research centers in the United States...
s.
Program Concepts
Smithsonian Journeys are often developed around a theme, an event, or a region. Many Smithsonian Journeys tours feature a Study Leader who adds insight and new perspectives on the destination. Formal and informal learning opportunities include lectureLecture
thumb|A lecture on [[linear algebra]] at the [[Helsinki University of Technology]]A lecture is an oral presentation intended to present information or teach people about a particular subject, for example by a university or college teacher. Lectures are used to convey critical information, history,...
s scheduled prior to visiting sites, informal talks over meals, and on-site discussions with local guides.
Tour Types
Small ship ocean and river cruising worldwide- Luxury rail adventures
- European stays on week-long programs in charming small towns
- Special interest themed land tours (food and wine, astronomy, opera)
- Natural history tours to worldwide destinations
- Private jet tours around the world
- Family cruises and land tours
Study Leaders
Notable tour experts have included Smithsonian curators, scientists, and researchers.- Richard KurinRichard KurinDr. Richard Kurin is an American cultural anthropologist, museum manager and author. He is the Under Secretary for History, Art and Culture at the Smithsonian responsible for most the Smithsonian’s national museums as well as a variety of cultural and educational programs.For two decades served as...
- Don Wilson
- Jeff Post
- Suzan Murray
- Tom Crouch
- Bill Fitzhugh