Smithsonian Private Art Tour by Universal Tour Guide US
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly indoor walking on flat surfaces.
Overview
Discover the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery through an exclusive private tour by Universal Tour Guide US. This intimate experience offers a unique lens on American art and history, led by expert guides in the heart of Washington, D.C.
Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery, Private Tour
2 Hours • All Ages • Up to 5 People
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About This Adventure
Duration
2 Hours
About
Meet us for an exclusive private tour and a fantastic taste of The Smithsonian American Art Museum known as SAAM, and formerly the National Museum of American Art in Washington, D.C., part of the Smithsonian Institution. Together with its branch museum, the Renwick Gallery, SAAM holds one of the world's largest and most inclusive collections of art, from the colonial period to the present, made in the United States. The museum has more than 7,000 artists represented in the collection. Most exhibitions take place in the museum's main building, the old Patent Office Building shared with the National Portrait Gallery. The museum provides electronic resources to schools and the public through its national education program. It maintains seven online research databases with more than 500,000 records, including the Inventories of American Painting and Sculpture that document more than 400,000 artworks in public and private collections worldwide.
Adventure Tips
Book Early for Private Groups
Private tours accommodate up to five guests—reserve in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Arrive Comfortable but Prepared
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves navigating multiple galleries inside the historic Patent Office Building.
Check Museum Bag Policies
Large bags and backpacks may not be permitted; travel light to streamline entry and access.
Photography Rules Vary
Flash photography is generally prohibited; check with your guide about specific exhibit restrictions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban squirrels in nearby Lafayette Square
- Peregrine falcons nesting on tall city buildings
History
The Patent Office Building, dating back to 1847, is a historic landmark that housed both the US Patent Office and early Supreme Court sessions.
Conservation
The museums actively engage in preservation programs, balancing public access with the protection of fragile art collections.
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Adventure Hotspots in Washington, D.C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Designed for navigating indoor galleries and nearby city streets with ease.
Light jacket or layered clothing
Autumn temperatures can dip, so layers keep you comfortable throughout the tour.
fall specific
Compact backpack or purse
Small enough to comply with museum bag policies and carry essentials like water and tickets.
Smartphone or camera
Useful for capturing photos where permitted and accessing digital resources shared by your guide.