The Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery, the only museum of its kind, features a unique portrait collection showcasing American history, personal biographies and dynamic forms of post-modern art. Nestled in the former Patent Office Building, which was erected in 1842, it stands as one of the oldest public federal buildings in Washington DC. Highlights include an amalgam of portraits representing many themes involving both politics and pop culture, including the display of the original President Barack Obama "Hope" portrait by contemporary artist Shepard Fairey.
Next to the private collection within the White House, the Gallery's Hall of Presidents remains the sole arrangement of presidential portraits open to the public. Several tours are available free to the public, including the Docent's Choice tour and the Highlights tour, which are offered twice daily. A special joint tour combining the best of both the National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum, also under the same roof, is usually offered on Mondays.
Take delight in the luminous glass ceiling and other marvels adding to the stellar ambiance found throughout the Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard, dubbed one of Condée Nast Traveler's seven modern architectural wonders of the world. Local residents and visitors alike can experience an enriching display of portraits, where history is not only disseminated but vividly brought to life. Unlike many of the other museums in the area, the Portrait Gallery closes at 7pm, giving visitors an extra hour and a half to peruse history at their leisure.
Attraction Information
- Hours:
- 11:30am to 7pm daily
- Closed December 25
- Admission:
- Free
- Contact:
- Location: Eighth and F Streets, NW, Washington DC
- Phone: 202-633-8300
- Website: www.npg.si.edu
