National Portrait Gallery

Overview

The National Portrait Gallery tells the story of America through the individuals who have shaped its culture, from presidents and activists to artists and athletes. It shares the historic Old Patent Office Building with the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

Highlights

• Hall of Presidents: Portraits of every U.S. president, including the Obama portraits by Kehinde Wiley and Amy Sherald.
• America's Presidents Exhibition: The only complete collection of presidential portraits outside the White House.
• Kogod Courtyard: A stunning glass-canopied courtyard designed by Foster + Partners, open to the public as a free gathering space.

History

The Old Patent Office Building, completed in 1868, is one of the oldest public buildings in Washington. It served as a hospital during the Civil War—Walt Whitman nursed wounded soldiers here. The Portrait Gallery has occupied the building since 1968.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The Kogod Courtyard is a perfect rainy-day retreat with free Wi-Fi, seating, and no admission required.
• Tip 2: The Obama portraits are the gallery's most popular works—visit early to avoid crowds around them.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.