How to Plan Your Highlights Curated Tour of the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C.

Are you planning a trip to Washington D.C. and want to experience one of the most amazing art collections in the world? Then look no further than the National Gallery of Art. With works of art from some of the most famous artists from around the world, such as Da Vinci, Rubens, Rembrandt, Monet, and Van Gogh, the National Gallery of Art can be an overwhelming experience for first-time visitors. Fortunately, a small-group tour can provide you with an essential context, guiding you through the museum’s masterpieces with ease. In this blog post, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your highlights curated tour, including what’s included in the package, the price of the tour, how to get there, what to expect, and how to book your tour online.

Overview of the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C.

The National Gallery of Art is one of the most visited museums in the United States, which is spread out over two buildings, the West Building and the East Building. The West Building has several of the National Gallery’s most famous works of art, including paintings from the Italian Renaissance and French Impressionism. The East Building, on the other hand, holds more contemporary pieces of art, featuring works from artists such as Alexander Calder, Joan Miro, and Pablo Picasso.

The Highlights Curated Tour of the National Gallery of Art

The Highlights Curated Tour is designed explicitly for first-time visitors who desire a deeper perspective of the museum’s most significant pieces. This small-group tour is curated for a more personalized experience with no more than six guests. Your guide will provide you with extensive knowledge about European art history, and by the end of the tour, you’ll have a deeper appreciation of the art in the museum.

What’s Included in the Package?

The tour price includes entrance to the museum, a semi-private museum tour, and a curated experience. The term “semi-private” means that there are never more than eight guests on a tour. However, the tour price doesn’t include gratuities or transportation to the museum. We recommend using Uber, taxi, or metro to get to the museum. If you choose to ride the metro, get off at Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Station, which is the closest metro station to the museum.

What to Expect on the Tour?

The Highlights Curated Tour is a two-hour tour that covers the most famous works of art in the National Gallery of Art. This tour is perfect for visitors who want to have an insightful and engaging experience with some of the world’s most renowned artworks. The guide will lead you through the museum’s West Building, where you’ll experience some of the most famous paintings of the Italian Renaissance, French Impressionism, and the Baroque era. Next, the tour will take you to the East Building to enjoy the most notable contemporary exhibits. You’ll explore the sculptures of Alexander Calder, the abstract paintings of Joan Miro, and the colorful works of Robert Rauschenberg. Additionally, you’ll learn about the architecture of the museum and how it was built to showcase the art impeccably.

How to Book the Tour Online?

Booking the highlights curated tour is simple and can be done directly through viator.com. Follow the link to book the tour here and select the date and time that works best for you. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled tour, wearing comfortable shoes as you’ll be on your feet for most of the two hours.

The Bottom Line

The Highlights Curated Tour of the National Gallery of Art is an exceptional experience that will leave you with a deeper perspective and appreciation of the museum and its masterpieces. The small-group tour and personalized attention from an experienced guide will make for an informative and engaging visit to one of the most remarkable art museums in the world. Don’t forget to book your tour online and make the most out of your visit to the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C.

FAQs about Washington Dc

If you are planning to visit Washington Dc, the capital of the United States, you might have some questions in your mind. This city has a lot to offer, and it can be overwhelming to decide what places to visit, when to visit, and how to get around the city. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Washington Dc, to help you plan your trip better.

1. What is the best time to visit Washington Dc?

Washington Dc has a humid subtropical climate, which means it has hot and humid summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Washington Dc is during the spring season (from March to May) or the fall season (from September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the city is not overcrowded.

2. What are the top attractions to visit in Washington Dc?

Washington Dc is home to many iconic attractions such as the White House, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian Museum. Some other notable attractions that you should not miss include:

• The National Mall
• The United States Capitol
• The National Gallery of Art
• The National Air and Space Museum
• The International Spy Museum

3. How can I get around the city?

Washington Dc has an extensive public transportation system, which includes buses, metro trains, and taxis. The best way to get around the city is by using the metro system, which is efficient and affordable. You can purchase a SmartTrip card, which is a reloadable card that you can use to pay for your metro fare.

4. What should I wear when visiting Washington Dc?

Washington Dc is a city where people take their dressing seriously, and it is essential to dress appropriately depending on the occasion. For instance, if you are visiting a government building, it is recommended to dress formally, wearing business attire. However, if you are going on a tour or visiting a museum, casual attire such as jeans and a t-shirt would be appropriate.

5. What is the food scene like in Washington Dc?

Washington Dc has a diverse food scene, with many world-class restaurants, food trucks, and local eateries. Some of the popular foods to try out in Washington Dc include:

• The half-smoke sausage at Ben’s Chili Bowl
• The blue crab cakes at the Fish Market
• The Ethiopian cuisine at Ethiopic
• The Chesapeake oysters at Hank’s Oyster Bar
• The burgers at Duke’s Grocery

6. Are there free things to do in Washington Dc?

Yes, there are plenty of free things to do in Washington Dc, which makes it an excellent destination for budget travelers. Some of the popular free attractions in Washington Dc include:

• The National Zoo
• The United States Botanic Garden
• The National Gallery of Art
• The National Museum of American History
• The National World War II Memorial
• The Smithsonian American Art Museum

7. Is Washington Dc a safe city?

Washington Dc is generally a safe city, but like any other big city, it has its fair share of criminal activities. To stay safe in Washington Dc, it is recommended to follow some safety tips, such as:

• Avoid walking alone at night
• Stay in well-lit areas
• Keep your valuables hidden from plain sight
• Be aware of your surroundings
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services

8. What is the best way to book tours in Washington Dc?

There are many tour operators in Washington Dc, which offer a variety of tours, such as walking tours, bike tours, and bus tours. The best way to book tours in Washington Dc is by using online travel agencies such as Viator or GetYourGuide, which offer you the convenience of booking from the comfort of your home.

In conclusion

Washington Dc is a city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff or a foodie, a nature lover or an art enthusiast, you will find plenty of things to do here. By following the tips and information mentioned in this blog post, you can plan your trip to Washington Dc more efficiently and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. is a fascinating city filled with iconic monuments, world-class museums, and unique local neighborhoods. If you’re planning a trip to our nation’s capital, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start with so much to see and do. In this guide, we’ll give you a step-by-step breakdown of the must-see attractions and best ways to spend your time in Washington D.C.

Step 1: Visit the National Mall

The National Mall is a two-mile stretch between the Lincoln Memorial to the west and the Capitol building to the east, where you’ll find many of Washington D.C.’s most iconic attractions. Start with a visit to the Washington Monument, then head to the Lincoln Memorial, a powerful tribute to one of America’s most beloved presidents.Don’t miss the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a striking wall honoring those who served in the Vietnam War. The Korean War Veterans Memorial is also a moving tribute to those who served in the Korean War.End your visit to the National Mall by seeing the Capitol, the home of the United States Congress. Guided tours are available, or you can simply admire the building outside and explore the surrounding area.

Step 2: Visit the Smithsonian Museums

Washington D.C. is home to an impressive collection of Smithsonian museums, all of which are free to the public. Start at the National Museum of American History, where you can see a wide range of American artifacts, from the original Star-Spangled Banner to a collection of first ladies’ inaugural gowns.The National Air and Space Museum is another must-visit, with fascinating exhibits on space travel and aviation. At the National Museum of Natural History, you’ll find the famous Hope Diamond, along with exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to ocean life.Other Smithsonian museums worth checking out include the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the National Portrait Gallery.

Step 3: Explore the Local Neighborhoods

While the National Mall and Smithsonian museums are certainly worth visiting, don’t forget to explore the unique neighborhoods that make up Washington D.C. Start with Georgetown, a historic district filled with charming brick townhouses and plenty of shopping and dining options.The Shaw neighborhood is another great choice, with a thriving arts scene and plenty of restaurants and bars. U Street is known for its jazz clubs and live music venues, while Dupont Circle is home to a number of embassy buildings and international restaurants.

Step 4: Take a Tour

To get a better understanding of the city’s history and culture, consider taking a guided tour. The National Park Service offers free tours of the National Mall and many of the monuments, while other companies offer both walking and bus tours of the city’s neighborhoods.Another popular option is the hop-on-hop-off bus tour, which allows you to explore the city at your own pace while learning about its history and landmarks along the way.

Step 5: Try the Local Cuisine

No visit to Washington D.C. would be complete without trying some of the city’s famous dishes. Start with a classic half-smoke, a spicy sausage often sold at street vendors around the city.For a more upscale experience, try one of the city’s acclaimed restaurants, many of which specialize in farm-to-table cuisine using local ingredients. Be sure to also sample the city’s famous “mambo sauce,” a sweet and tangy condiment often served with fried chicken or other dishes.

Step 6: Visit the Tidal Basin

Finally, make your way to the Tidal Basin for a picturesque view of the Jefferson Memorial, one of the city’s most beloved landmarks. This man-made reservoir is also surrounded by cherry blossom trees, which bloom in the spring and draw crowds from around the world.While these steps are just a starting point, they’ll give you a solid foundation for exploring all that Washington D.C. has to offer. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to our nation’s capital.