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Where is National Portrait Gallery / Smithsonian Portrait collections,Washington, D.C.?

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: March 13, 2026, 13:58 ET

The National Portrait Gallery, part of the Smithsonian Institution, is located in Washington, D.C., USA. It lies between Gallery Place and Chinatown and is situated near the National Mall area. It is famous for its portraits of famous Americans, including presidents, artists, and historical figures.

National Portrait Gallery / Smithsonian Portrait collections Location Map,Washington, District of Columbia

Where is National Portrait Gallery / Smithsonian Portrait collections Located inWashington, District of Columbia
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Top Attractions Inside National Portrait Gallery / Smithsonian Portrait Collections

  • American Presidents Portraits – Iconic portraits of U.S. presidents throughout history.
  • Contemporary American Portraits – Modern artworks showcasing influential figures in politics, arts, and culture.
  • Historical Leaders & Icons – Portraits of key figures in U.S. and world history.
  • Special Exhibitions – Rotating exhibits highlighting thematic collections and contemporary artists.
  • Portraits of Artists & Entertainers – Works featuring musicians, actors, writers, and cultural icons.
  • National Portrait Gallery Architecture – Historic building with striking interior spaces and galleries.
  • Educational Programs & Tours – Guided tours, lectures, and interactive programs exploring portrait art and history.

National Portrait Gallery / Smithsonian Portrait collections Facts

Official NameNational Portrait Gallery / Smithsonian Portrait Collection
Location8th and F Streets NW, Washington, D.C., USA — Penn Quarter / National Mall vicinity
Latitude & Longitude38.8977° N, 77.0226° W
Total AreaMain building area 160,000 sq ft (14,900 m²); includes exhibition galleries, research library, and public spaces
Established / OpenedFounded 1962; opened to public 1968
FounderU.S. Congress (as part of Smithsonian Institution)
Managed BySmithsonian Institution
RegionWashington, D.C. / Penn Quarter cultural district
AddressNational Portrait Gallery, 8th & F Streets NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA
Zip Code20001
Area Code202
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneEastern Time (ET) – UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptPortrait art, American history, famous figures, contemporary portraiture, photography, sculpture
Main Sections / AreasWest Wing (special exhibitions), East Wing (permanent collection), Luce Foundation Center for American Art, Research Library, Public Galleries
Famous AttractionsPortraits of U.S. Presidents, American historical figures, contemporary artists, photographic portrait collection, changing special exhibitions
Annual VisitorsApprox. 1.2–1.5 million visitors
Entry Fee TypeFree public admission
Ticket Price RangeFree (special exhibitions may have separate fees)
Ticket OptionsFree access to galleries; guided tours and audio guides optional; special exhibition tickets if applicable
Best Time to VisitSpring–Fall for comfortable walking in nearby National Mall; year-round indoor access to galleries
Nearby AirportRonald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) – 5 miles (8 km); Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) – 28 miles (45 km)
TransportationMetrorail (Gallery Place–Chinatown station nearby), buses, taxis, rideshare, walking from National Mall area
Official Websitehttps://npg.si.edu

Distances from National Portrait Gallery / Smithsonian Portrait collections to Nearby Landmarks

  • Smithsonian National Museum of American History – 0.3 km (0.2 mi)
  • Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – 0.4 km (0.2 mi)
  • Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum – 0.6 km (0.4 mi)
  • United States Capitol – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Washington Monument – 1 km (0.6 mi)
  • Lincoln Memorial – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Jefferson Memorial – 2.5 km (1.6 mi)
  • World War II Memorial – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial – 2.7 km (1.7 mi)
  • Korean War Veterans Memorial – 2.8 km (1.7 mi)
  • White House – 1.5 km (0.9 mi)
  • Smithsonian Institution Building (The Castle) – 0.5 km (0.3 mi)
  • National Gallery of Art – 0.3 km (0.2 mi)
  • National Gallery Sculpture Garden – 0.4 km (0.2 mi)
  • United States Botanic Garden – 1.8 km (1.1 mi)
  • Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Georgetown Historic District – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Tidal Basin – 2.2 km (1.4 mi)
  • Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture – 0.8 km (0.5 mi)
  • National Archives Building – 0.5 km (0.3 mi)

Top Places to Visit in Washington, D.C.

Explore the most popular tourist places in Washington, D.C. The list below includes famous beaches, national parks, historic sites, and scenic attractions across the state, along with map locations.

Places in DCPlaces in DCPlaces in DC
Fords Theatre National Historic SiteSmithsonian National Museum of Natural HistoryThe Newseum Washington DC
Lincoln MemorialNational Air and Space Museum SmithsonianVietnam Veterans Memorial
National Gallery of Art Washington DCUnited States National Arboretum
National Mall Washington DCWashington National CathedralTheodore Roosevelt Island
National Portrait Gallery SmithsonianNational WWII MemorialUnited States Capitol

Explore the complete list of places to visit in the United States, including national parks, cities, landmarks, and famous attractions.