Museum

National Portrait Gallery (United States)

Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

The National Portrait Gallery showcases portraits of individuals who have shaped American history and culture, from presidents and activists to artists and scientists. Visitors can explore changing exhibitions and the permanent collection, which includes the famous 'America's Presidents' gallery. The museum itself is housed in a stunning Greek Revival building, part of the Smithsonian Institution, offering a unique blend of art and history.

Don't miss

  • View the 'America's Presidents' gallery featuring portraits of every U.S. president.
  • See the iconic 'Lansdowne' portrait of George Washington by Gilbert Stuart.
  • Explore the 'In Memoriam' gallery honoring figures like Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit National Portrait Gallery (United States)

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

More attractions in Washington

Planning your trip to Washington? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Washington itinerary.