Adventure Collective Logo
Smithsonian Portrait & Art Tours by Babylon Tours DC - Washington, D.C.

Smithsonian Portrait & Art Tours by Babylon Tours DC

Washingtoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for visitors with moderate mobility who can walk and stand for extended periods indoors.

Overview

Discover the United States’ story through art and portraiture on a 2.5-hour semi-private tour of Washington, D.C.’s Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum. Small groups and expert guides offer an immersive look at history and creativity.

Washington, District of Columbia

Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum - Semi-Private

Explore two of Washington D.C.’s beloved museums | 2.5 hrs | Daily

History Tour
Museum
Walking Tour

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

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

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 2.5-hour semi-private tour of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum. With a small group, explore iconic portraits and masterpieces that narrate America's history and creativity. Led by an expert guide, witness the evolution of identity and activism through art, from Civil War figures to modern icons.

Book way in advance - we sell out


Rates

  • Adult: - $95
  • 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

Semi-Private Museum Tour "Semi-Private" Means Group Size Is Never More Than 8 Guests Maximum Professional Art Historian Guide Duration 2.5 Hours


Excludes

Tour price does NOT include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend UBER or Taxi) Tour price does NOT include gratuities (optional) Tour is NOT available for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair


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 semi-private guided museum tour explores the National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum where up to ten guests can 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

Meet 10 minutes before departure at the G Street entrance to ensure a timely start and smooth entry through security.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Expect to walk moderately within the museum's expansive galleries for 2.5 hours.

Pack Light

Large bags and suitcases aren’t allowed inside; bring only small purses or backpacks to ease security checks.

Prepare for Quiet Spaces

Certain galleries require silence or very low noise—respect these rules to fully enjoy the art and preserve the atmosphere.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • City pigeons near the museum plaza
  • Squirrels in nearby parks around National Mall

History

The Old Patent Office Building served as a Civil War hospital where Walt Whitman volunteered to aid wounded soldiers, linking the space’s past to its artistic present.

Conservation

Both Smithsonian museums continually emphasize sustainable practices, including energy-efficient lighting and climate control, to protect priceless artworks and reduce environmental impact.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in Washington, D.C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Helps manage the moderate indoor walking required throughout both museums.

Lightweight daypack or handbag

Essential

Allowed for carrying essentials while complying with museum security rules.

Weather-appropriate outerwear

Essential

Necessary for travel between indoor locations during cooler or unpredictable weather.

spring|fall|winter specific

Camera or smartphone

Perfect for capturing the striking artwork and architectural features (where photography is permitted).