About National Portrait Gallery
Generations of remarkable Americans are kept in the company of their fellow citizens at the National Portrait Gallery. The Gallery presents the wonderful diversity of individuals who have left - and are leaving - their mark on our country and our culture. The National Portrait Gallery shares with the Smithsonian American Art Museum one of Washington's oldest public buildings, a National Historic Landmark that was begun in 1836 to house the U.S. Patent Office. One of the nation's finest examples of Greek Revival architecture, the building has undergone an extensive renovation that showcases its most dramatic architectural features, including skylights, a curving double staircase, porticos, and vaulted galleries illuminated by natural light. The Lunder Conservation Center, the only fine-art facility of its kind, is an innovative new space that allows visitors to look through floor-to-ceiling windows as conservators care for the national treasures entrusted to both museums. Open 11:30am to 7:00pm.; closed December 25
How to Get There
The museums are conveniently located at Eighth and F Streets, NW, D.C., 20001, above the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metrorail station (Red, Yellow and Green lines).
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to National Portrait Gallery
Heading to National Portrait Gallery? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for National Portrait Gallery?
No central reservation system listed for National Portrait Gallery. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/202365) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to National Portrait Gallery?
The museums are conveniently located at Eighth and F Streets, NW, D.C., 20001, above the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metrorail station (Red, Yellow and Green lines).
How do I contact National Portrait Gallery?
You can reach the park at phone: (202) 633-1000 or email: npgnews@si.edu.
References & Official Resources
