National Portrait Gallery | Visitor information

Visit the National Portrait Gallery

The Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery tells the story of America through the individuals who have shaped U.S. culture. Through the visual arts, performing arts, and new media, the Portrait Gallery portrays poets and presidents, visionaries and villains, actors and activists who speak American history.

Location:
The museum is conveniently located at Eighth and F Streets, NW, D.C., 20001

Museum Hours:
11:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. daily
Closed December 25

Admission: FREE

General Information Number
(202) 633-8300

NPG Information Email Address:
npgnews@si.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Reynolds Center?
What is the closest Metro stop? Is parking available?
Is there barrier-free access for visitors to the Reynolds Center?
What can I bring with me into the museums?
Is there a place to check my coat?
Is photography allowed in the galleries?
What dining options are available?
Are there museum stores?
Where can I find a list of special exhibitions?
Are there any tours or public programs scheduled during my visit?
How do I arrange a visit for a school group?
Where can I get more information on visiting the Smithsonian?
How do I contact the museum?

What is the Reynolds Center?

The National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum—two museums that tell America's stories through art, history and biography—share a newly renovated National Historic Landmark building in downtown Washington D.C. The Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture, named in honor of a generous gift from the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation, includes the two museums and their special-purpose facilities: the Lunder Conservation Center, the Luce Foundation Center for American Art, the Nan Tucker McEvoy Auditorium and the Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard.

What is the closest Metro stop?Is parking available?

The museums are conveniently located above the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metrorail station (Red, Yellow and Green lines). Metro hours, fare information, and maps are available at www.wmata.com. When exiting the Metro please take the Arena exit at 7th and F Streets.

The DC Circulator also serves the museums' Penn Quarter neighborhood. Hours, fare information and maps are available at www.dccirculator.com.

There are a few parking lots and ramps in the vicinity of the museums. For their location, please view this map.

Is there barrier-free access for visitors to the Reynolds Center?

Barrier-free access is available at G Street entrance. All areas of the museum are served by elevators. Wheelchairs are available. Please inquire at the Information Desk.

What can I bring with me into the museums?

Please help us protect our artworks by not smoking, eating, or drinking in the galleries. Suitcases, large umbrellas, and all backpacks are not allowed in the galleries. Bag check is not offered, but free lockers are available for smaller items. Please limit the use of cellular phones when in the galleries. Bags, boxes, and packages may be inspected for security reasons upon entrance or exit.

Is there a place to check my coat?

Yes, a self-check coat room located in the F Street Lobby.

Is photography allowed in the galleries?

Handheld photography and video for personal use are permitted in the permanent collection galleries, but not in special exhibitions or in the Lunder Conservation Center. No tripods are allowed. Commercial use must be pre-arranged with the museum's Public Affairs Office.

What dining options are available?

Currently there are two dining options available

Courtyard Café
An American-inspired menu is available in the museums' new Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard.

Portico Café
Enjoy espresso, wine, salads, sandwiches and pastries in the outdoor Portico Café from April through mid-October.

Are there museum stores?

A wide variety of collection-inspired gifts, graphics, books and more are available in the museum's stores on the first floor. Open 11:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m.

Where can I find a list of special exhibitions?

Visit the Current Exhibitions page for a listing of current and upcoming special exhibitions.

Are there any tours or public programs scheduled during my visit?

Check the Events and Programs page for information on what is happening at the museum on the day of your visit.

How do I arrange a visit for a school group?

To schedule an educator-led school program, visit the School Programs, 2007-2008 page or contact the School and Teacher Program Coordinator at whitebz@si.edu. Facilitated programs require one month's advance notice. Self-guided visits do not require reservations.

Where can I get more information on visiting the Smithsonian?

Learn more about visiting this and other Smithsonian Institution museums on the main Smithsonian Web site.

How do I contact the museum?

National Portrait Gallery: 202-633-8300
email: npgnews@si.edu

Smithsonian Information: 202-633-1000
TTY: 202-633-5285
email: info@si.edu