How to Visit the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC

A part of the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC and one of the best-known art museums in the world, the National Gallery of Art, was created for the people of the United States through a joint resolution of Congress and a gift of Andrew W. Mellon in 1937. The gallery features paintings, sculptures, works on paper, photographs and decorative arts by European and American artists.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Map of Washington, DC

Arrive at the National Gallery of Art

1. Get to the museum via Washington, DC's public transportation or by car. The closest Metro stops are Judiciary Square, Archives and Smithsonian. Metro bus stops can be found on fourth Street and seventh Street NW, while DC Circulator buses arrive at fourth Street and Madison Drive and seventh Street and Constitution Ave.

2. Visit the museum between 11a.m.and 5 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 11a.m.and 6 p.m. Sunday. Entry is free of charge.

Explore the Museum

3. Check out the prints, paintings, sculpture, decorative arts and temporary exhibitions on the Ground Floor of the West Building.

4. Admire the European paintings and sculpture from the 13th to 16th centuries and American art and temporary exhibitions on the main floor of the West Building.

5. Find out about possible lectures, films and educational programs in the auditorium of the Concourse of the East Building.

6. Check out the top of the south Tower of the East Building for special modern and contemporary works.

7. Remember to visit the Sculpture Garden, featuring work from the museum's galleries as well as loans for special exhibits.

8. Shop for souvenirs at one of the museum's three shops. Find posters, postcards, souvenirs of special exhibitions, stationary, jewelry and accessories at the ground floor gift shop in the West Building. Pick up gallery publications, exhibition catalogues and books on art, architecture and photography in the Concourse Bookstore. There is also a Children's Shop on the concourse with books, games toys and puzzles.

9. Visit one of the museum's cafes to enjoy an espresso or fresh gelato.

Tips & Warnings

• The National Gallery of Art is closed on December 25 and January 1.
• You will have to present your belongings for inspection as you enter the museum. You will also need to check any backpacks, as you cannot carry anything on your back.

Resources

• National Gallery of Art information and schedule