National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum DC Combo Tour
Combine Art and History on This Unique Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum Combo Walking Tour in DC

DC
people
1 participant
30 minutes
- • Explore Two of DC's Most Popular Museums
- • Enjoy Commentary From an Expert Local Guide
- • Ultimate Washington DC Tour for Art Lovers
Why We Love This Unique Experience
Washington DC Experience Gifts: Discover two of DC's most popular museums on this exciting National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum combo tour, exploring portraits of iconic historic figures and masterpieces painted by the best US artists. Group sizes are kept to a maximum of eight guests per tour so you get a personal experience, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos, and ask your knowledgeable guide lots of questions. These are two DC museums that deserve the expertise of a qualified local, a great experience for your next DC vacation or a fun gift idea for art lovers!
Check Availability & Book
Experience Overview:
National Portrait Gallery And American Art Museum Dc Combo TourHoused in the historical Old Patent Office Building, art and history mingle together at two of DC’s most important galleries. This 2.5 hour semi-private guided museum tour explores the National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum where up to ten guests can witness the nation’s history unfolding.
The building itself is a marvel, once a Civil War Era hospital where famed poet Walt Whitman helped injured soldiers. Today, his portrait joins thousands of others in this building, which has flirted with art exhibits since 1829, before becoming a dedicated museum. The National Portrait Gallery features portraits of the great women and men who helped build the United States. Presidents and first ladies are on display, as well as famous military leaders of the Civil War, like Grant and Sherman. Discover 19th century daguerreotypes, early photographs, before exploring the Robber Barons and Suffragettes of the early 20th century.
Afterwards, move on to the American Art Museum where artists like Mary Cassatt, a beloved Impressionist, are on display. You’ll explore big names like Edward Hopper and David Hockney in front of some of their iconic paintings. Georgia O’Keeffe’s provocative flowers will spark conversations as much as the slightly odd portrait of former president Obama. Learn about the WPA-era photographs that helped define a nation during the Great Depression, as well as more modern works that will leave you scratching your head, until your expert guide helps bring it all into focus.
Highlights Generally Include: (if artwork is not on loan or being restored etc.)
- Obama portraits
- Civil war generals (McClellan, grant, Sherman, etc)
- Pocahontas portrait
- Experience America: WPA art from Roosevelt’s new deal
- Famous Gilbert portrait of Washington, the one on the 1$ bill
- Paintings by whistler, singer Sargent, Hopper, Mary Cassatt, David Hockney
FAQ
Activity FAQs
Are the tours in english?
Yes, all our tours are led by professional English speaking tour guides.
Does the tour run if it rains?
Whether it rains, snows or shines, we run our tours. We advise you to be dressed accordingly to the weather. Check the forecast before coming out of the hotel. And wear comfortable shoes.
Details & Important Info
Additional Experience Details & Important Information
IMPORTANT Before you go:
- Please arrive at the designated meeting point 10 minutes prior to your tour start time. Please note : All latecomers risk missing the tour.
- We ask that all guests bring identification (with age indicated).
- Please do not bring any oversized bags, or personal items larger than a small backpack
- This tour runs everyday rains or shine, please dress accordingly
- This is a tour of the permanent collection only
Cancellations & Refunds
Reservation Changes, Cancellations & Refunds
Changes to reservations for tickets can be made until 2 days prior to the date scheduled. Reservations may be re-scheduled by the operator of the activity due to reasons such as weather, minimum participation requirements, mechanical issues or other interruptions beyond their control.
All gift certificate sales are final and not refundable. Gift certificates can only be exchanged prior to redemption.
A full list of terms of sale of tickets and certificates can be viewed here.
Organized by
Babylon Tours Washington D.C.
Discover our Washington D.C. Tours
The capital of the United States, the playground of politicians and presidents, is just as enticing for tourists who want to experience a slice of American history. Our English speaking guides organize private and small group tours to the city’s most important institutions, like the National Museum of American History and the Air and Space Museum. Rub elbows with Senators as you stroll the historic monuments on the Mall and learn about the iconic figures buried at Arlington National Cemetery. At Babylon Tours, our engaging guides want to make it clear that D.C. isn’t just for the fat cats on Capitol Hill – it’s also yours to explore.
Product SKU: US-0066-0029
Google Business Profile: Babylon Tours DC
Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum Tour
DC
people
1 participant
30 minutes
- • Explore Two of DC's Most Popular Museums
- • Enjoy Commentary From an Expert Local Guide
- • Ultimate Washington DC Tour for Art Lovers
Best Experience Providers
Our Activity Partners are highly rated and experts in what they do, guaranteeing you an unforgettable experience.
Free Gift Exchanges
All ExperienceGifts Certificates are fully exchangeable if you change your mind, free of charge!
Instant E-Gifts
Our beautifully designed e-certificates are sent instantly the moment you place an order, great for last minute gifts.