National Gallery of Art

Photo provided by National Gallery of Art, Washington
National Gallery of Art
National Gallery of Art
National Gallery of Art
National Gallery of Art


As classic as it looks, this building contains a huge assortment of the world’s treasures. Immerse yourself in collections for all tastes.

The stately row of Corinthian columns and the domed roof proclaim clearly that Washington, D.C.’s National Art Gallery is a collection point for some of the world’s greatest art treasures. Plan to spend time in the gallery to fully appreciate these artistic masterpieces that emphasise human creativity.

Among the outstanding pieces are Leonardo da Vinci’s Ginevra de’Benci, his only original work displayed in the U.S., Vincent van Gogh’s Self-Portrait and Rembrandt van Rijn’s Self-Portrait.

Also look for classic works by Raphael, Titian, El Greco, Rubens, Blake, Constable, Picasso and Matisse, among other outstanding artists. In contrast, find modern thought-provoking art in the other part of the gallery designed by I.M. Pei, which has an underground area displaying an artistic light show connecting the two buildings.

With about 141,000 works in the gallery, if time is limited you may want to plan your viewings in advance by charting your steps on a map of the collections. Otherwise, a stroll-and-stop approach will bring you in contact with works that you may have seen only in pictures. Be aware that food and drink, including water, are not permitted in any room where art is displayed.

See what special events are happening at the gallery during your visits. Concerts, films and family activities are frequently scheduled. Be sure to experience the gallery’s outdoor Sculpture Garden, a 6.1-acre (2.5-hectare) area located near the building’s western wing. In addition to botanical attractions, you’ll find artworks that can be appreciated in seating areas located throughout the garden. The garden has a popular café and at its centre is a large fountain that becomes an ice rink in winter.

Find the National Gallery of Art on Constitution Avenue NW, between 3rd and 9th Streets, several blocks from the Capitol building. The gallery has complete accessibility and can be reached by taking the Metro to Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter stop. Alternatively, take the DC Circulator’s National Mall route. Admission is free and the gallery is open every day except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

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Things to do near National Gallery of Art

At the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including art appreciation, shopping, and theatre nearby. A highlight of the experience is the availability of free tours, allowing guests to explore the vast collection of artworks without any cost. This cultural destination offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of art while also enjoying the vibrant surroundings.

Shopping

Union Station Shopping Center is a vibrant hub only 497m from the National Gallery of Art, offering a delightful mix of shops and entertainment. Similarly, L'Enfant Plaza, located 373m away, provides a family-friendly atmosphere. If you’re up for a drive, the Fashion Center at Pentagon City is 1.9km away, featuring a diverse range of shops.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Capital One Arena, only 249m from the National Gallery of Art, ideal for sports enthusiasts. Alternatively, enjoy a musical evening at Howard Theatre, located 1.2km away, offering a delightful entertainment experience in a historic setting.

Adventure

The East Potomac Tennis Center offers vibrant adventure vibes, perfect for tennis enthusiasts located 621m from the National Gallery of Art. For scenic hiking, Soapstone Valley Park, 2.5km away, presents breathtaking outdoor trails, while the Southeast Tennis & Learning Center, also 2.5km distant, is ideal for spirited tennis matches.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near the National Gallery of Art by visiting the Shakespeare Theatre Company, just 186m away, for a captivating performance. Alternatively, enjoy a film at Regal Gallery Place, 311m away, or immerse yourself in the atmosphere at The Anthem, 559m away, for live entertainment.

Find the best attractions near National Gallery of Art

When visiting the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., indulge in the rich cultural offerings, including various art museums and historic sites. Explore nearby memorials and civic buildings that enhance the family experience and cater to cultural enthusiasts. For a convenient stay, consider searching for hotels near the gallery, and don't miss out on other local tourist attractions that showcase the city's vibrant heritage.

  • National Mall: A sprawling park that serves as the heart of the nation, the National Mall is home to iconic monuments and memorials. Just 124m from the National Gallery of Art, it offers scenic views, outdoor adventures, and a chance to reflect on American history amidst lush green spaces.
  • White House: Located 1.50m away, the White House is a symbol of American government and culture. This historic building invites visitors to appreciate its stunning architecture and rich history while enjoying the surrounding gardens and public spaces.
  • Smithsonian Institution: Situated 497m from the gallery, this vast complex includes multiple museums celebrating art, history, and science. With a family-friendly atmosphere, the Smithsonian offers interactive exhibits and endless opportunities for learning and exploration.

Best time to go to National Gallery of Art

The best time to visit National Gallery of Art is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for National Gallery of Art

To save money on your visit to the National Gallery of Art, consider travelling between December and February, when accommodation prices dip. Fridays tend to be the most affordable days for stays, while Tuesdays are pricier. Use Expedia to filter your hotel options by budget and location, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights and activities for added savings. Additionally, explore free activities at the gallery and utilise public transport for economical travel around Washington, D.C.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around National Gallery of Art are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around National Gallery of Art is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around National Gallery of Art is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay for the National Gallery of Art with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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