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Docent Programs
Most Smithsonian museums operate Docent Programs through their public programs or education departments. Docents are volunteer teachers who provide group learning experiences in the form of museum tours, demonstrations, or instruction in special activity areas.
Smithsonian Docent Programs provide the following services:
School Group ToursTours for school groups are conducted on a prescheduled basis and are designed to supplement the classroom curriculum or accommodate a specific study interest. |
Special Interest ToursSpecial interest tours, demonstrations, and hands-on activity areas offer an in-depth look at an exhibition, a collection, or a discipline. Some occur on a regular walk-in basis; others must be prescheduled. |
Popular Highlights ToursHighlights tours are generally available to the public on a walk-in basis and provide an overview of some of the popular and significant museum exhibitions. |
Outreach ProgramsOutreach programs – offered by some of the museums – "take the Smithsonian" to schools and community organizations. The program may provide an introduction for an upcoming museum visit or a unique educational experience for such community groups as nursing home residents. |
Program Contacts
The Docent Program year varies from museum to museum. Some operate October through May; others operate year-round. Training programs, eligibility requirements, openings, and time commitments also vary.
If you wish to participate in a museum Docent Program, call Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. the program of your choice (listed below). More information is also available on each museum's website.
Note: An asterisk * indicates weekend volunteer opportunities are available.
