Smithsonian Journeys, the travel arm of the Smithsonian Institution and a prominent name in cultural tourism, has introduced Discover Getaways—a new portfolio of weeklong, expert-led land tours launching in February 2027.
Created for time-conscious, high-end travelers, these itineraries deliver the same level of expert guidance, thoughtful planning, and balanced pacing that define the brand’s longer journeys. With convenient weekend departures and shorter durations, the new trips are designed to fit into a single week away, making it easier for travelers to use limited vacation time without sacrificing depth of experience.
The initial rollout includes 11 itineraries now open for booking in early 2027, featuring sought-after destinations such as Japan, Italy, France, and the Galápagos Islands. New additions to the lineup include Jordan, Malta, and Alaska—the latter offering a winter itinerary focused on viewing the Northern Lights.
Each journey is limited to just 24 participants, maintaining an intimate, small-group atmosphere that encourages meaningful interaction among guests and staff.
“The demands of work and family can make it challenging to carve out time for a truly meaningful escape,” said Walter Littlejohn III, senior vice president of Smithsonian Journeys. “These tours give travelers the chance to step away from daily routines—even briefly—and engage deeply with the places they visit through the unique perspective we offer.”
Every Discover Getaway is led by a Smithsonian Journeys expert, typically a scholar, scientist, or cultural specialist who provides in-depth context throughout the experience. The packages include airfare, airport transfers, ground transportation, accommodations, most meals and gratuities, as well as a dedicated tour director. Travelers also benefit from a thoughtfully paced itinerary with built-in free time, along with pre-departure educational materials and optional insurance coverage.
Leave feedback about this