Join us on a 2.5-hour tour of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum, where the faces and artistic movements that defined the United States come to life. With a small group of no more than 8 guests, our expert guide will lead you through two of Washington, D.C.’s most fascinating collections, offering an in-depth look at the figures and moments that shaped the nation.
Begin your tour at the National Portrait Gallery, housed in the stunning Old Patent Office Building, and come face-to-face with America’s most influential figures. Examine commanding portraits of presidents, Civil War generals, and pioneering figures like Pocahontas, and explore how leadership, identity, and activism have evolved over the centuries.
At the Smithsonian American Art Museum, admire New Deal WPA murals, bold portraits by Whistler and Sargent, and modern masterpieces by Hopper, Cassatt, and Hockney. From colonial works to contemporary innovations, this museum captures the evolution of American creativity.
By the end of this tour, you’ll have traced America’s story through its most compelling portraits and groundbreaking artwork, gaining a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural identity and the artists who captured it.
Highlights: Highlights Generally Include: (but not limited to)
The Lansdowne Portrait of George Washington
This 1796 portrait by Gilbert Stuart not only shaped the public image of America’s first president but also inspired the engraving on the U.S. dollar bill.
The "Hope" Portrait of Barack Obama
Shepard Fairey’s instantly recognizable artwork became an emblem of the 2008 presidential campaign!
Civil War Generals
See striking portraits of key Civil War figures, including Ulysses S. Grant, William Tecumseh Sherman, and George McClellan.
Pocahontas Portrait
This 17th-century portrait is one of the earliest known depictions of a Native American in European art.
Experience America: WPA Art from Roosevelt’s New Deal
Discover artwork commissioned...
Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum - Semi-Private
Washington, United States
2 hours 30 minutes
What You Will Do
What's Included?
- Semi-private museum tour (with tickets included)
- "semi-private" means group size is never more than 8 guests maximum
- Professional tour guide
- Duration 2.5 hours
What's Not Included?
- Tour price does not include hotel pickup or drop-off (we recommend uber or taxi)
- Tour does not include gratuities (optional)
- Temporary exhibitions not included
Cancellation Policy
- Customers can cancel for a **full refund up to 24hrs before the tour start time**. No refund will be provided within 24hrs before the tour start time. Contact us by phone to cancel or Reschedule if necessary. *(reschedule fee may apply)*
- No-shows and latecomers will be charged the full price.
- If you have **booked through a third party, please contact them directly** to cancel or reschedule according to their Terms & Conditions.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
On the stairs outside the G street entrance near the sign “National Portrait Gallery" https://maps.app.goo.gl/YbtKTLD1rUBJU2pG7
1
Itinerary
A 2.5 hour tour of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum with one of our expert guides. Start: 8th St NW & G St NW, Washington, DC 20001 End: G Street Northwest &, 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Additional Information
This activity is operated by Babylon Tours Washington D.C.
- Accesibility: Wheelchair Accessible
- Disclaimers: The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum may experience occasional closures without prior notice from museum management. In the event of a delayed opening exceeding one hour past the scheduled tour time, we will offer guests an appropriate alternative. Refunds or discounts are not available in these cases. Appropriate dress is required for entry into some sites on this tour. No large bags or suitcases are allowed inside the museum, only handbags or small thin bag packs are allowed through security. Due to increased security measures at many attractions some lines may form on tours with 'Skip the Line' or 'No Wait' access. Some specific rooms inside the museum are subjected to a very quiet or restricted right to speak inside, in this cases your guide will provide the information about this places before entering the specific rooms where this rule applies. Some collections may vary along the year.