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Inside Washington’s Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum: A Private Tour Experience - Washington

Inside Washington’s Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum: A Private Tour Experience

Washingtoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for visitors with moderate mobility; involves standing and walking indoors for a couple of hours.

Overview

Explore America’s story through intimate portraits and groundbreaking art on a private 2.5-hour guided tour of Washington, D.C.’s Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum. Discover iconic faces and artistic milestones shaping the nation.

History Tour
Museum
Washington, District of Columbia

Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum - Private

2.5 hrs | Daily | Our newest museum tour!

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Adventure Photos

Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum - Private photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 2.5-hour private tour of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum. Led by an expert guide, explore iconic portraits and masterpieces that narrate America's history and artistic evolution, from Civil War leaders to modern innovators. Experience the rich cultural identity of the nation through art.

Book way in advance - we sell out


Rates

  • Adult: - $85 - $249
  • Youth: - $85 (Ages 10 - 17)
  • Child: - $75 (9 and under)

Duration

  • 2.5 hours

Meeting Point

  • Meet your guide on the steps to the G Street entrance to the museum (outside).

Includes

Private Museum Tour Professional Tour Guide Exclusively For You Duration 2.5 Hours Wheelchair Friendly


Excludes

Tour price does NOT include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend UBER or Taxi) Tour price does NOT include gratuities (optional)


Full Tour Description

Housed in the historical Old Patent Office Building, art and history mingle together at two of DC’s most important galleries. This 2.5 hour private guided museum tour explores the National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum where you’ll witness the nation’s history unfolding

The building itself is a marvel, once a Civil War Era hospital where famed poet Walt Whitman helped injured soldiers. Today, his portrait joins thousands of others in this building, which has flirted with art exhibits since 1829, before becoming a dedicated museum. The National Portrait Gallery features portraits of the great women and men who helped build the United States. Presidents and first ladies are on display, as well as famous military leaders of the Civil War, like Grant and Sherman. Discover 19th century daguerreotypes, early photographs, before exploring the Robber Barons and Suffragettes of the early 20th century.

Afterwards, move on to the American Art Museum where artists like Mary Cassatt, a beloved Impressionist, are on display. You’ll explore big names like Edward Hopper and David Hockney in front of some of their iconic paintings. Georgia O’Keeffe’s provocative flowers will spark conversations as much as the slightly odd portrait of former president Obama. Learn about the WPA-era photographs that helped define a nation during the Great Depression, as well as more modern works that will leave you scratching your head, until your expert guide helps bring it all into focus.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early

Be at the meeting point 10 minutes before your tour to ensure a smooth start.

Dress Comfortably

Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothes as the tour involves walking indoors for over two hours.

Limit Your Luggage

Only small handbags or thin backpacks are allowed through museum security; large bags are prohibited.

Bring Photo ID

Carry valid photo identification for entry and ticket verification.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • N/A – urban indoor setting with no wildlife

History

The Old Patent Office Building, housing both museums, is a National Historic Landmark dating back to 1847 and served as a crucial site during the Civil War.

Conservation

The Smithsonian incorporates energy efficiency and sustainable practices to protect priceless artwork and maintain the historic building responsibly.

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Adventure Hotspots in Washington

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Essential for standing and walking through museum galleries comfortably.

Light Jacket or Layers

Indoor temperatures may vary; layering helps maintain comfort.

all specific

Compact Backpack or Handbag

Essential

Needed to carry essentials since large bags are not permitted inside.

Smartphone or Camera

Great for photographing exteriors and recording memorable moments if allowed.