The National Portrait Gallery (NPG) is a must-see destination for visitors interested in the people—past and present—who have left an indelible mark on our country and its culture. Highlights from the gallery's collections include one of the most significant portraits in America's history— Gilbert Stuart's "Landsdowne" painting of George Washington, located on the second floor in the "America's Presidents" exhibition.
Located on the third-and fourth-floor mezzanines, the center offers a unique, behind-the-scenes view through floor-to-ceiling glass walls of the techniques American Art and Portrait Gallery conservation staffs employ to examine, treat and preserve paintings, prints, drawings, photographs and other works of art.
The Smithsonian American Art Museum's Luce Foundation Center is the only study center in the city where visitors can browse through artworks in the museum's visible art storage facility, no appointment necessary. More than 3,300 paintings, sculptures, craft and folk art objects are on display in secure glass cases. With the touch of a button, pneumatic drawers open to reveal portrait miniatures, bronze medals and contemporary craft jewelry.
The 346-seat auditorium, on the building's lower level, features music, theater, dance and film programs sponsored by both American Art and the Portrait Gallery. Check for schedules at the information desk.
The courtyard's undulating glass roof, designed by the renowned architectural firm Foster + Partners, adds an exciting contemporary element to the museums' building. The courtyard is a downtown oasis that features interior landscaping, free WiFi access and a café.
The Courtyard Café (open daily), located in the Kogod Courtyard, offers specialty sandwiches, panini, soups, salads, desserts and coffee. The Portico Café (open daily, weather permitting, from May to November), located on the second floor, serves espresso, wine, sandwiches, salads and pastries.
The National Portrait Gallery Education Center schedules programs for school groups and families. Ask about interactive tours and activities at the information desks.
(walk-in; meet at F St. info desk)
(All walk-in tours subject to docent availability)
• Every Mon.-Fri., 11:45 AM (and 2:15 PM tour as announced by docent)
• Every Sat. and Sun., 11:45 AM (and 3:15 PM tour as announced by docent)
Note: Generally, on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month, the 3:15 PM tour is offered in Spanish (if no Spanish speakers attend, tour is offered in English).
(walk-in; meet at F St. info desk)
Docents may choose to offer a Highlights, America's Presidents, or a Special Exhibition tour.
(All walk-in tours subject to docent availability)
• Every Mon.-Fri., 1 PM
• Every Sat. and Sun., 1:30 PM
(walk-in; meet at F St. info desk)
(All walk-in tours subject to docent availability)
Exhibition on view Sept. 27, 2007-Feb. 10, 2008
Tours offered as follows:
• Sat., Jan. 19, 1:30 PM and 3:15 PM (3:15 PM tour in Spanish)
• Fri., Jan. 25, 1 PM
(by appointment; 1-month notice required)
October-June:
• Call Mon.-Fri., 8 AM-4 PM, except federal holidays: 202-633-8503 (voice/answering machine)
OR
• E-Mail: NPGEducation@si.edu
(by appointment; 2-month notice required)
• Call Mon.-Thurs., 9:30 AM-5 PM, except federal holidays: 202-633-8519 (voice/answering machine)
• E-mail: NPGAdultTours@si.edu
(by appointment, 1-month notice required)
• Call Mon.-Thurs., 9:30 AM-5 PM, except federal holidays: 202-633-8500 (voice/answering machine)
• E-mail:
- School Groups: NPGEducation@si.edu
- Non-School Groups and Individuals: NPGAdultTours@si.edu
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The Upper West Side Café: 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Visit the cafe on the third floor for coffee, sandwiches, salads and pastries.
The Portico Café: 11:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Enjoy the outdoor Portico Café in seasonal weather for espresso, wine and tidbits.
