National Portrait Gallery

11551 reviews

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

npg.si.edu

+12026338300

About

National Portrait Gallery is a Tourist attraction located at 8th St NW & G St NW, Washington, DC 20001. It has received 11551 reviews with an average rating of 4.8 stars.

Photos

Hours

Monday11:30AM-7PM
Tuesday11:30AM-7PM
Wednesday11:30AM-7PM
Thursday11:30AM-7PM
Friday11:30AM-7PM
Saturday11:30AM-7PM
Sunday11:30AM-7PM

F.A.Q

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The address of National Portrait Gallery: 8th St NW & G St NW, Washington, DC 20001

  • National Portrait Gallery has 4.8 stars from 11551 reviews

  • Tourist attraction

  • "For me the original "model room" on the 3rd floor is the hidden gem of the museum"

    "The National Portrait Gallery is a must-visit attraction in Washington DC"

    "This is a very nice gallery"

    "This is one of our favorite museums in DC by far"

    "There is something for everyone at this conjoined twin of a museum"

Reviews

  • Iris Geller

For me the original "model room" on the 3rd floor is the hidden gem of the museum. It was actually designed as part of the original patent office, to hold the documents and models that were submitted. Today it holds exhibits, currently "the Champions", and the extention holds a hefty art collection in exhibit cases. But what is amazing is the architecture of this area. It has undulating balconies decorated with Corinthian style pillars in tones of biege, pale green and gold. There are 2 different renaissance styles from one hall to the next. The design is magical. Stained glass windows adorn the grand rounded marble staircases leading into this area. Beautiful tiling and frescos and the images of famous inventors including Franklin and Fulton decorate the entrance lobby, highlighted by a stained glass skylight. Etched windows on the entry floor adorn the side exhibition rooms. The second hall is full of statues on that entry floor while the above mezzanine are loaded with all types of artwork. Lincoln had his inaugural ball in these two hall. Of course the hall of Presidential portraits on the second floor of the main museum shows the leaders of our republic in truly artistic fashion. The new presentation of Lincoln' full body portrait by Travers is a highlight, as well as the Landsdown portrait of Washington. This museum has much more to offer, but depending on patience and how much you can absorb, you must return to take everything in.

  • Jonah Wunder

The National Portrait Gallery is a must-visit attraction in Washington DC. With its stunning collection of portraits, this museum offers a unique and fascinating insight into the history of America. The exhibits are arranged chronologically, so visitors can easily follow the progression of American history through the portraits of its most famous citizens. The collection includes works by some of the most renowned artists in the world, including Gilbert Stuart, John Singer Sargent, and Andy Warhol. One of the highlights of the museum is the Hall of Presidents, which features portraits of all the American Presidents. It's interesting to see how each portrait reflects the style and values of its era. Additionally, visitors will appreciate the knowledgeable and friendly staff who are happy to answer any questions about the exhibits. If you're looking for a bite to eat after your visit, the nearby Oyamel Cocina Mexicana is a great choice. Their guacamole and grasshopper tacos are particularly noteworthy and would undoubtedly be enjoyed by all of the former Presidents if they were still alive. Overall, the National Portrait Gallery is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in American history and art.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Dee Tee

This is a very nice gallery. Parking was confusing though and no one could help. I had a handicapped family member. The side on g Street was supposed to be an entrance for handicapped individuals, but parking was so bad we could not get her in there. We ended up just going in and getting a souvenir for the handicapped party on our trip because the only place we could park was in an area that was not the area for handicapped and they couldn't get up those steps. From the glances we were able to get, it was beautiful. I knew what the pictures looked like because I saw them online before we arrived. Shop is lacking in good assortment of souvenirs. I collect enamel pins and the only ones they had were of the Obamas. People would like more options that just those two pins. Only 2 keychains that did not directly say you were at the National portrait gallery. One was a paint pallet with a few colors on the pallet. Pretty but generic. The other was an impressionist painting. Pretty but would like more options. Overall, on okay visit. Not sure if I recommend for parties with disabled or handicapped parties.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Joshua Russell

This is one of our favorite museums in DC by far. You get a wide array of art here on three floors. This is located right in Chinatown across the street from Capital One Arena with two entrances. One thing to note if you are being a bag it has to be worn in front of you at all times. We recently came here and I would say my favorite areas were the special exhibition of the dual artists and their stories. They show one piece of art from the artist and tells the story of their connection. They have a Jackson Pollock called Heading West which was really neat to his art before the drip style. Another favorite was the Hung Liu portraits, the way she did them is nothing I’ve seen before and really showed great expression. I also enjoyed the social Justice exhibition as it covered a wide variety of areas and include very moving stories. I highly recommend coming here and spending a couple hours browsing.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Eliezer Perez

There is something for everyone at this conjoined twin of a museum. Sharing its same volume with American Art museum offers a wide a range of historic American works to contemporary portraits as well as sculpture, mixed media works, sound art, etc. It is the only Smithsonian open till 7p. There is no timed entry, it is ADA accessible, metro accessible, and their famed courtyard (designed by renowned architect Norman Foster) is worth visiting for that alone. They also regularly host many free events and activities such as artist talks, music performances, panels, and other engagement opportunities. They did an exhibit over the summer featuring classic arcade games and new indie games currently being developed where you could play the games and learn about the industry / developers. The contemporary galleries were recently renovated and reopened after being closed for months. They now feature twice the amount of exhibit space !

  • Kim Stuart

Loved it! This is NOT a typical museum at all - it's really all about the sitters, not the painters, and when you walk through you'll get the sense that it's a bit of a jumble in many of the galleries, but stick with it and it will all make sense by the end. It's not often you go to a museum that has such a variety and breadth to collections, but this one sure does. I could go back and spend another half day in there just checking it all out. The presidential portrait gallery is incredible - strangely enough the tiny little Richard Nixon portrait was one of my favorites, and of course the Kehinde Wiley portrait of Obama is amazing; the Clinton portrait is not only fascinating, the story behind the artist is totally interesting too.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Meenakshi R

The museum has hand painted portraits right from Renaissance period. The artworks are amazing to view and the detailing is exquisite. Every portrait has a supporting detail board adjacent to it. It was interesting to have seen them. They have occasional exhibits which are pretty interesting too. If you love art and painting this would be a place one wouldn't want to miss. At a walkable distance from the gallery pl. Metro station, this place has some good joints for food and beverage. The cafe and courtyard inside the building is a pretty beautiful place to be. It is also close by to the DC central public library. Their gift shop has some pretty interesting accessories and souvenirs.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

Don't miss out on this hidden gem! Located a few blocks away from Smithsonian row, this muesum is not overwhelmed with tourists. You might expect the galleries to be full of oil canvases featuring the founding founders painted in the style of the Dutch Masters, but the gallery offers so much more than that. There are rich, vibrant portraits covering several different artistic styles. You can also find photos spanning over 150 years from the 1865 photo of Lincoln to the 2021 photo of Trump. I found the descriptions of each portrait to be very interesting. The description provides a brief summary of the subject's accomplishments and controversies. The gallery itself is a work of art.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • B Cush

The National Portrait Gallery in DC is an absolute must-visit! We were captivated by the incredible art collection that beautifully captures the essence of American history and culture. From iconic portraits to contemporary masterpieces, the gallery's diverse range of exhibits is a visual feast for art enthusiasts. The rich narratives behind each portrait add depth to the experience, making it both educational and emotionally resonant. Whether you're a history buff or simply appreciate art's power to tell stories, this gallery will leave you thoroughly inspired and entertained. Come explore and immerse yourself in the captivating world of portraiture!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

  • M J

I really enjoyed the National Portrait Gallery which shares buildings with the American Art Museum (they each have a side on both buildings). The Hall of Presidents was excellent. I really enjoyed seeing the 2022 Potrait Contest and enjoyed voting for my favorite Portrait. There is a 50 year Anniversary exhibit for the Watergate Scandal and we almost visited on the actual anniversary so that was cool. There are a lot of different portraits of Americans on display and they are pretty randomly spread out between the rooms. All in all, expect to spend 1 1/2-2 hours at this part of the museum. I will say, some teens and kids who are not the most intellectually driven may find it boring as there are not interactive exhibits.

  • MJG

This museum was one we actually stumbled upon. It's not in the museum row with all the other Smithsonian Museums but it was one of our favs. We only had 45 min to look at the museum and we were told to go right for the Presidential portraits. Which we did. On the way you go through a cool outdoorsy type area that is covered. There were some water features in there which our son loved. The gift shop here is an added bonus which carries lots of nice items. 5/5. Highly recommend. We'll go again next time in DC. ________________________________________________ Follow me for more reviews, tips and photos.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Shannon S

Highly recommend! Visited on a Monday morning just after they opened, 11:30–1:30+. Very friendly staff, informative and helpful information desk assistant, and clean, bright, and beautiful inside. Exceptional and thought-provoking exhibits throughout. Definitely needed more time to see everything. They have a beautiful atrium with café between the two halves of the building, which but didn’t have time to visit it. So much art to experience between this and the American Art half. Third floor was beautifully renovated and recently re-opened! Easy to get to by metro using the nearby Gallery Place stop.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • beyondTabu

This museum is really nice… but this review isn’t about the museum directly. It’s about the staff/security. We’ve been to several other museums and they all seem to have the same attitude. They yell/scream at you from across the room, to not do something or that you’re breaking their rules (that aren’t clearly posted anywhere). It’s very disrespectful and unprofessional. This mentality seems to be widespread in all the museums recently. It’s like they’ve had no customer service training at all. They have a little power and wield it unabated. It upsets our day really makes us not want to visit the attractions.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

  • EV US

This is another museum in Washington I keep returning to after the National gallery of art and being free is an added bonus: 1. Plan in advance, check their website or maps here of what you want to see 2. The map is not as detailed of National Gallery of art museum for example but there are some great sections: the American artists of the early 20th century have some great paintings here with amazing details for example 3. The presidents section is also great and Clinton has a very interesting painting 4. Relax in their green area surrounded by plants and hopefully not having kids splashing water while parents only watched and filmed!!!!! Most surely we will return here.

  • Sandor Garcia

Probably one of the best if not the most underrated museum in DC as it's not on the National Mall like the others. Also one of our family favorites since it's open later than all of the other museums (closes at 7pm). The interior architecture to be admired as much as its art displays, make sure to take your time and explore the entire museum. The atrium with glass cieling in the middle of the museum is breathtaking. This is a world class museum and definitely worth the visit. Don't leave DC without checking this out!
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Jason Zahn

Easy entrance, FREE no crowds, plenty of restrooms and water fountains, nice large covered patio with lots of seating. Of course all the presidential portraits (Obama is finally back in residence).... but so much more.... some great traditional paintings (ex. Edward Hopper), castings of Lincoln, photography, and some modern art installations. Definitely easy to spend 3-4 hours here. If you can, leave your bags and drinks at home - it makes security so much easier (all the DC museums have water fountains).
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Matthew Smith

The National Portrait Gallery is a spectacular museum. There is so much to see that easily takes a full day, or multiple visits to see everything with time to appreciate the artwork. This gallery is easily a museum that one can visit repeatedly and still find the exhibits interesting. I got so busy I almost forgot to take a few photos for this review. I chose historical portraits, to illustrate this museum isn't just a gallery, but also documents the history of the United States. I'm not an art person, however, I can highly recommend the National Portrait Gallery.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

  • Walter Shroyer

This is a gem of a museum not far off the mall area, maybe a 10 - 15 minute walk from the Archives building. The National Portrait Gallery is only half the museum. The other half is the American Art Museum. Plan on spending at least 4 hours. Better yet take two days and spend 4 hours each. I always go here when in town. Besides all the great art, I love spending time in the middle courtyard with its large atrium. It is bright, relaxing, has food, and a great place to rest your body before seeing more art. If you stay till they close, walk two blocks and eat in Chinatown. I always do.

  • Jennifer Eubanks

A must see...don't miss the presidential portraits! Parking is relatively easy, and the hours are longer than you might think. The museum is open until 7:30 p.m. on sunday. Restaurants are plentiful nearby so finding a nice spot for a meal before or after your visit is easy. There's a lovely Courtyard within the museum with a bakery Wine Cafe and Coffee shop. A very nice spot to have a refreshment and rest for a few minutes during a busy day in DC.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • John Moran

This museum is ignorant. The museum has an unimpressive collection of minor paintings, but most importantly, the curation’s politicized anti-nationalist interpretive materials were obviously written by individuals without any specialization. Sherman is described as destroying targets of “military value” while an engraving referencing the Jamestown Massacre of 1622 makes no mention of 1622. I feel bad for them because it is a sad collection of stuffy paintings of dead white men. But the “This portrait of a villainous American” genre is as trite as it is sophomoric.

  • Natalie Koffarnus

Could spend a whole day here, but we cruised through just the presidential portrait gallery and a few other locations. We wanted to eat lunch in the beautiful central corridor and so glad we did! The little cafe isn't huge, but has a decent selection. I'll go back to try and take in more of it. Lots of interesting things to see and themes observed along with special exhibits to always have something new.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Bailey Brantley

Really expansive and impressive museum. They have a diverse and exciting collection of portraits spanning far beyond just the presidents. The collection makes sure to show so many of the sides of America through the artworks they feature. In the crowded museum collection of DC, it can be difficult to decide on spots to visit, but I highly recommend making this one of your stops if you like art.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Cathy Tang

A lot of great arts to check out. Suggest at least setting aside 3.5 hours to tour the whole thing, though you might not be able to make the whole standing. I work out a lot and took 4 or 5 sits throughout the visit. They have self-guided voice tour on their website which I personally enjoyed a lot. Make sure you bring water bottle - limited water fountain there and it’s easy to get dry.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Georgia Laurette

The atrium in the middle is such a great place to eat lunch. They have a cafe but I brought a lunch this time. The plants are maintained by the National Botanical Garden and are beautiful. There are permanent exhibits but also rotating ones, so it’s worth a repeat visit. A large gift shop with a nice selection. Everyone that works there is always kind and welcoming.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Drew Matchett

The presidential portraits were really cool to see, especially the early ones when they painted huge portraits with fancy gold frames. Each picture also has a short description about what the president accomplished and is known for, and about the painting itself. I really liked the one of Kennedy standing at his desk in the dark.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Klau Pao

The Gallery is amazing, you will probably spend 2 hours there. It has very beautiful portraits, one of my favorites was Gilbert Stuart painting of George Washington and everything related to Abraham Lincoln as well as the amazing portrait of the Supreme Court Justices! Wow what a place to put on my memory box! I loved it!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Salsabil Yeasmin

Such a beautiful museum. They have free entrance but I would suggest to make a donation even if it's just a dollar or some change. They have worked hard to keep the museum safe, clean and organized. The artwork represents what America is about and our diversity. I simply loved the experience in there.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Victoria O'Tool

This is a fantastic part of the American Art Museum and a must see in Washington D.C.! It is free to enter and includes a ton of important people and little descriptions of what they did in life which I appreciated. The rooms were all well decorated, and the portraits were cool to see. I would come back.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • AMY MUNNS

Not so interesting if you don't have background about presidents of the US like me. I couldn't enjoy so much like other art museum. Other exhibitions were good though. If you are interested in USA politics and history, definitely interesting museum. If you don't have enough time in DC, I recommend to skip this one.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

  • Dianne Ferguson

This is my favorite. Every time we come to DC, we visit the National Portrait Gallery. This year we enjoyed looking at the Americana prints. When I was looking at the Presidential portraits, reading the descriptions, I realized that we've always been a mess. Somehow that was comforting.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Ray

I didn't know there is this museum until we walked by on the way to Chinatown for lunch. We visited it after lunch. It's great to see some of the arts that I have seen in books or videos in person. Kids enjoyed it as well as we got into some good discussions on some sculpture pieces.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • E Blount

The National Portrait Gallery was a really nice experience. There are themed galleries as well as the presidential gallery. If I remember correctly there are 3 floors to explore. There are elevators for those that can't or don't want to walk. It is completely FREE and no ticket required. If you bring a bag it must be worn on the front of your body so that you don't accidentally damage an exhibit.

  • C M

Shocking variety of art style and mediums. Some parts of building under construction and off limits. Beautiful courtyard with waterfall floor you can walk through. Impressive amount of sculptures. Very diverse representation of different cultures, ethnicities, and races of people featured in portraits.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

  • John Roth

Great collection of portraits. I especially enjoyed the president's portraits, but whoever selected the portraits of former presidents Clinton and Obama made a poor decision in my opinion. These two portraits do not portray the respect and dignity of the office.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Shannon Bedo

This museum was a delightful surprise. The architecture was inspiring, and the mixture of portraits and other American paintings was tastefully done. There were portraits of every president. I loved the giant portrait of the Queen of Hawai’i and the landscape of Yosemite.
Visited on
Public holiday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

  • Elizabeth Khoury

Had a lot of fun here! It was really cool to see all the presidents and notable people in history. A good mix of art and history and a very beautiful museum. The gift shop was “small and mighty” and was perfect for gifts for friends and family.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • T Bay

Wonderful London with another free museum! There is something soulful about these portraits. So close to so many diplomatic residences! PRO: - Beautiful art for EVERYONE - no one pays to get in! CON: - How can you do this in one visit? It's not possible! SUMMARY: Please go see The National Portrait Gallery! It's free for all and so close to so many embassies!

  • Natalie Sweet

The National Portrait Gallery, of course, has fabulous pieces of American art that many have encountered in textbooks and popular culture. But it is also a wonderful place to go to meet with friends in the courtyard, grab a drink, study on the 3rd floor, or just admire the beautiful architecture. I like to relax here after a long day of walking through DC.

  • Coreen Bohl

I don't consider myself an "artsy" person and I was actually surprised how much I enjoyed visiting this museum. There was such a variety of pieces that it really kept my interest. Paintings, drawings, photography, multimedia, and sculpture. I would definitely return here!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

  • A Martinez

The art collection is eclectic. In every room, there is something unique and unexpected. I started with the portraits of "The America's Presidents" and from there wondered from room to room. It was an awesome learning time.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Ukvayat Hanak

The National Portrait Gallery gets 4/5 for all the exhibit areas that are closed right now. Many renovations going on! So many varied exhibits though. A great place to host a catered event. Check em out!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • NerdsMakeMedia

The 1898 exhibit is not to be missed. It is great to see the Smithsonian address our imperialism. Each country we invaded in 1898 gets it's own little gallery, and there is some exhibits on our crimes against the First Nations. The two museums are always worth a visit. The courtyard instantly relaxes the soul.

  • Andi Robinson

I was here for a closed event and it was awesome. The atrium area was perfect for our gathering and we had access to a good portion of the gallery. There was so much to see. It is hard to imagine so many great pieces of American artwork in the same place. It is a lot more than just the presidential portraits.

  • Emily Yolo

Stopped by about 1.5 hrs before closing. If I knew the top floor had such neat design I would've started from the top and worked my way down! I really enjoyed all the landscape paintings.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Raffaella De Pace

Beautiful museum with classic but also modern art. We enjoyed the most beautiful paintings, sculptures and photos. The explanations of the art are extensive and interesting. We had lunch in the brightl atrium on the ground floor. There are 4 floors, and multiple elevators or stairs to easily reach them.

  • C Chez

This is a must-see when visiting Washington DC. Street parking is generally easy in the area and the gallery is open later than most museums, etc. till 7pm. And it's free. You will truly enjoy the peaceful central atrium as well. Expect to spend at least two hours or more to see everything. More

  • Alex Radovic

One of my favorite museums. So many amazing artists, so much to see. Plan several hours to visit if you appreciate the art. This place will take your breath away.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Garineh E

Great diverse collections! Pick your favorite president portrait and take picture with it! There is an atrium in the center, it is beautiful and calming place.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • CHRISTOPHER CHEN

The Gallery is beautiful. It is a must to visit. Free to the public. The hours are 11:00-7:30. Located across the street from Cap One Arena in Chinatown, WDC.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • James Marcus

A must-see. The gallery is actually two museums in one, it is just the right size. Seeing Obama's unique portrait was a highlight. The folk-art section also very interesting. It is very manageable and not overwhelming like some of the other mall museums. Visited 5/2023.

  • Mary Robinson

The exhibits change a few times a year, making frequent visits a treat. Courtyard is a restful spot in busy DC, bring a sandwich or buy one and stay a while. Open till 7pm.
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Cynthia Hood

I finally made it to The National Portrait Gallery! I had been longing to see President Obama and Michelle's protraits. The museum is fantastic!! Thank you!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
Not sure

  • Brennen

I am always in awe at just how great the Smithsonian museums are. This is an incredible collection of portraits and landscapes.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • K J

The atrium is the most serene indoor space to escape the heat in DC. Break for a snack or bring your laptop for a quiet place to work, then enjoy the gallery!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Kathy W

Museum is really big and has so much to see. We spent a good amount of time at kogot courtyard which happens to have orchids displays. Beautiful and fun place for people of all ages. Parking was somewhat challenging but really worth the trip.

  • Assem Salih

By far, this is my favorite museum in Washington DC. I love when history of the United States is told through various portraits of key figures who played roles in shaping the history of the country. But the most interesting section is the

  • Aung Myo Htut

One of the museums in downtown Washington DC. It's quite closed to China Town. The museum has three floors and I recommend you to start explore from the third floor. It's a big museum and you can spend time as much as you want if you're a

  • Kristina Knowles

Absolutely beautiful, the staff was there but they weren't in a good way. We actually came to visit a piece of art that our Uncle painted. So special, loved The President corridor. Wow!!!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait

  • Paolo Verzani

Free to the public and the perfect date spot! An exceptional collection of art that won't take you the entire day to browse! I was blown away by the garden atrium room that features an abundance of sunlight and flora.I have been waiting

  • Melissa Widrick

I really enjoyed the gallery. It has a peaceful quiet vibe. It wasn't too crowded, and there's a variety of portraits of famous and not so famous individuals. A lot of the works are displayed in smaller rooms with benches so you can sit

  • Tatiana Russell

A must visit museum in DC. Very accessible and free to entry as most of the Smithsonian Institution buildings are. The American president’s exhibition is a cool history lesson. Plan for the minimum of two hours to tour the three floors.

  • Mandy Shoptaw

Greeted upon arrival and given history lesson, felt free to roam around and enjoy the art prior to going to a theater show nearby. Well lit, clean, welcoming, diverse art collection, engaging items that tell the story of our country.

  • LeAndrew Albert

So much to see!!! The fly over of Washington DC ride brought tears to my eyes! Loved every minute!
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
1 hr+
Reservation recommended
Yes
Price for adult entry
$16–20

  • Michael Vandeford

Very well laid out museum with a nice collection of portraits and other art styles. The interior courtyard is covered and beautiful.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

  • David Chang

Great museum to stop into for a little while, or to enjoy for hours. Lots to see here and with no entrance fee, it's a great escape. The courtyard in the center is fantastic to relax in and get away from the heat.

  • Elizabeth Conley

I loved this incredible museum! Famous Presidential paintings, sculptures and lots to enjoy.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Shannon Roth

Amazing collection! Make sure you visit the 3rd floor and observe the conservation efforts.
Visited on
Weekday
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Nazanin Rezaei

Definitely worth visiting when you're in D.C. You can find portraits of all American presidents as well as lots of paintings and sculptures of different eras. The building is very beautiful. More

  • Basha باشا

The National Patriot Museum in DC offers a captivating experience with its proximity to great restaurants and the Capital Arena. It is hands down my favorite museum in the city and it’s free!

  • Pavel Kipan

Absolutely must see museum of American art and history! Totally free. Beautiful building. One problem - there's no coat check, not convenient for winter time.
Price for adult entry
Free

  • Kayla Kalkstein

Magnificent. One could spend hours here!!! The portrait gallery and American art museums are intertwined. There is a beautiful courtyard to rest and have lunch in in the middle of the complex.

  • Carlos A.

This was an awesome surprise. I thought it was going to be a quick 45-60 minute visit. But NO. The place is gigantic, beautiful and filled with interesting exhibits all around.

  • S N

I love art very much, and I am also an artist myself, so this place is very special to me.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

  • hey.junebug

Beautiful and interesting arts that you can spend the whole day here.
Visited on
Weekend
Wait time
No wait
Reservation recommended
No

  • Coolie Davis

Yep it's good. All the exhibits are very cool. It's a little weird but I really like the court yard. I was there at night in the wintertime. Just magical

  • Jo Ellen

A very well done museum. Ample space, a great representation of variety/diversity among the art. Signs in English/Spanish. Highly recommend.

  • JasonHGK

One of the best museum experience I had in DC. Great art exhibit and awesome free concert at the atrium. Love it! More

  • Vanesa Coloma Pérez

Nice place to see great portraits of the presidents and others like Michelle Obama's.
Visited on…
More

  • Igor Corti

We visited the National Portrait Gallery during memorial weekend and I can't still belive this was free.

  • H

Museum was good. Learned a lot. Good people. Good staff. Decent artifacts. Will be back.

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