DC Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum - Exclusive Guided Tour

US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (22 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Tour guide exclusively for you (does not apply if you choose "save! book semi-private" option)
  • inclusion
    Wheelchair friendly (does not apply if you choose "save! book semi-private" option)
  • inclusion
    Guided museum tour
  • inclusion
    Duration 2.5 hours

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities
  • exclusion
    Food and drinks
  • exclusion
    Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting Point

Meet on the stairs outside of the G street entrance in front of the the sign reading "National Portrait Gallery"

Meeting point

8th St NW & G St NW, Washington, DC 20001 , United States

End point

End Point

Meet on the stairs outside of the G street entrance in front of the the sign reading "National Portrait Gallery"

Meeting point

8th St NW & G St NW, Washington, DC 20001 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

National Portrait Gallery

Once a Civil War Era hospital, this building has featured art exhibits as early as 1829. Poet Walt Whitman tended to wounded soldiers here, commemorated by a portrait hanging here today in the National Portrait Gallery. Other portraits recall the great women and men who shaped the United States. Presidential portraits, as well as those of the first ladies, trace a long lineage of famous leaders. Civil War figures, like Grant and Sherman, recall a more turbulent time in the nation’s history. An eclectic mix of paintings and photographs, as well as 19th century daguerreotypes, recall the Robber Barons, the Suffragettes, and various other individuals throughout the US’s short but remarkable past. Within the American Art Museum, appreciate scenes by American artists like Mary Cassatt, who took part in the Impressionist movement. Fast-forward to Georgia O'Keeffe and her provocative flowers. Learn about the photographs commissioned by the government during the Great Depression as well as the curious portrait of former president Obama. Discover famous artists like Edward Hopper and David Hockney before moving on to more experimental and contemporary art that will need a bit of explaining to understand how this all fits into America’s very unique story.

Duration 150 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Additional information
    It is imperative that you provide us with guests MOBILE PHONE NUMBER (including country code)
  • Additional information
    Notes: National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum may be subjected to occasional closures without previous warning from the museum management. When this occurs, we will provide guests with an appropriate alternative if the museum opening time is delayed more than 1h from the tour starting time. In these cases we are unable to provide refunds or discounts. 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.
Provided by Babylon Tours DC

What our experts say

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    Visit nearby Old Ebbitt Grill for lunch.
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    Check museum's website for closures.
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    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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    Take photos outside, it's stunning!
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    Arrive early to explore the lobby.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the rich history and vibrant art scene of Washington, D.C. with the Smithsonian Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum - Private Guided Tour. This captivating tour takes you on a journey through the National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum, both housed in the historic Old Patent Office Building. Immerse yourself in American culture and gain a deeper understanding of the country's artistic heritage.

What to expect?

During this 2.5-hour exclusive tour, you can expect to explore a diverse range of American-made works of art. Starting at the National Portrait Gallery, you'll delve into the history of the building and its transformation into a prestigious museum. Discover captivating portraits that pay homage to influential figures who have shaped the United States. From presidential portraits to images of Civil War figures, these artworks offer a glimpse into the nation's significant moments. Continuing to the American Art Museum, you will admire stunning scenes by American artists from different eras. Marvel at the Impressionist artworks of Mary Cassatt and the evocative flowers of Georgia O'Keeffe. Take a closer look at the thought-provoking photographs commissioned during the Great Depression, and don't miss the intriguing portrait of former President Obama. The museum guides will help you navigate through a variety of contemporary and experimental art, providing insights into America's unique story.

Who is this for?

This private guided tour is perfect for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone seeking a deeper connection with American culture. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to Washington, D.C., this tour offers a captivating experience for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Discover the stories behind the portraits and artworks, and gain a greater appreciation for the artistry that has shaped the United States.

Why book this?

Embark on this exclusive tour to gain a unique perspective on American art and history. With an expert guide by your side, you'll dive into the narratives woven into each artwork, making the entire experience come alive. Explore the National Portrait Gallery, once a Civil War-era hospital, and learn about the significant individuals who have left their mark on the United States. At the American Art Museum, you'll encounter masterpieces from renowned artists, such as Mary Cassatt and Edward Hopper, and discover how their work contributed to the evolution of American art.

Good to know

It is important to note that the total duration of the tour is 150 minutes. The meeting point is the stairs outside of the G street entrance, where you'll find a sign reading "National Portrait Gallery." The same location serves as the endpoint for the tour. Be prepared for an immersive experience that combines historical context with artistic appreciation. Engage in thought-provoking conversations and ask your guide any questions you may have along the way. At the end of the tour, you'll leave with a new understanding of American art and a deeper connection to the rich cultural heritage of Washington, D.C.

Reviews

Visitors who have embarked on this private guided tour have praised the expertise and knowledge of the guides. They were impressed by the vast collection of portraits at the National Portrait Gallery, as well as the diverse range of artworks at the American Art Museum. Travelers have expressed their satisfaction with the well-paced tour, providing ample time for exploration and reflection. Overall, past attendees have found this experience to be enriching, educational, and a must-see for both locals and visitors to Washington, D.C. Don't miss your chance to uncover the hidden gems of American art with the Smithsonian Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum - Private Guided Tour.

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