National Portrait Gallery, Canberra Travel Guide

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Explore Australian identity through portraiture at Canberra's National Portrait Gallery, showcasing the faces and stories that have shaped the nation.

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National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery in Canberra showcases the stories of Australia through portraits of its people. Located in the Parliamentary Triangle, the gallery offers a unique perspective on Australian identity, history, and culture through the art of portraiture.

A brief summary to National Portrait Gallery

King Edward Terrace, Parkes, Australian Capital Territory, 2600, AU
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Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring National Portrait Gallery.

Entry to the permanent collection is free. However, some temporary exhibitions may require paid tickets.
The gallery is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, except on Christmas Day.
Consider visiting on a Friday to take advantage of Fare Free Friday on Canberra's public transport.
The underground car park has limited spaces and can fill up quickly. Consider alternative parking options nearby.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore National Portrait Gallery on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near National Portrait Gallery, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

Transport Canberra bus routes 2 and 6 stop on Parkes Place East, directly across from the National Portrait Gallery. Several other bus routes stop near the Albert Hall, which is about a 15-minute walk to the gallery via a pedestrian underpass. Adult fares are $3.32 during peak hours and $2.63 during off-peak. Travel is free on Fridays.
Walking

The National Portrait Gallery is located within Canberra's Parliamentary Triangle, near the High Court and the National Gallery of Australia. From the Old Parliament House, walk along King Edward Terrace. The gallery will be on your left. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.
Taxi

Taxis and rideshares can drop you off directly in front of the National Portrait Gallery on King Edward Terrace. A taxi from Canberra Railway Station to the National Portrait Gallery costs approximately $12-$15. From Canberra Airport, expect to pay around $25-$27 to get to the city.
Parking

Underground parking is available at the National Portrait Gallery, accessed from Parkes Place. Parking fees apply between 8:30 am and 5:30 pm daily. There are designated parking spaces for people with mobility difficulties. When the underground car park is full, free parking is available on weekends around the John Gorton building, a 400m walk to the Gallery.

Discover more about National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery, situated in Canberra's Parliamentary Triangle, houses a diverse collection of portraits that tell the story of Australia. Opened in 2008, the gallery's collection includes portraits of prominent Australians from various fields, including art, music, politics, and sports. The gallery's purpose is to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Australian identity, history, culture, creativity, and diversity through the art of portraiture. The collection features a range of portraits, both historical and contemporary, reflecting the evolving face of the nation. The National Portrait Gallery began in 1998, with the vision of telling Australia's story through the portraits of its remarkable citizens. The gallery was initially housed in Old Parliament House before moving to its current, purpose-built location. The building itself, designed by Johnson Pilton Walker, has won awards for its architecture. Visitors can explore the permanent collection, as well as temporary exhibitions, and participate in public programs, lectures, and educational activities. The gallery also includes a café and shop.