How to Plan Your Private Guided Tour Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum in Washington DC

Washington DC is a city that offers plenty to see and do, but one of the most enriching experiences you can have is visiting its famous museums. The National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum are two of the most popular ones, and taking a private or small-group tour with a knowledgeable guide can make all the difference in your visit. In this guide, we’ll explain how to plan your Private Guided Tour Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum in Washington DC, including what’s included in the tour, how to choose between private and small-group options, and how to book your tour.

Overview

The Private Guided Tour Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum is a two-in-one tour that allows you to visit two of Washington DC’s most renowned museums. You can choose between private and small-group tour options depending on your preferences and budget. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn the stories and history behind the masterpieces on display, making for a personalized, stress-free tour experience.The first stop on the tour is the National Portrait Gallery, where you’ll have the chance to admire presidential portraits, early photographs, and more. Then, you’ll head next door to the American Art Museum, where you’ll discover American masterpieces from the past to the present day. This two-in-one tour is perfect for time-pressed visitors who want to get the most out of their museum experience.

What’s Included

The Private Guided Tour Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum includes a two-and-a-half-hour museum tour with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll enjoy an exclusive tour guide, if you choose the private tour option. The tour doesn’t include food and drinks, gratuities, or hotel pickup and drop-off.

Private vs. Small-Group Options

When booking the Private Guided Tour Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum, you can choose between private and small-group tour options. Private tours are perfect for those who want a more personalized experience and want to dictate the pace of the tour. Small-group tours cap at no more than eight people, which can be ideal for those who want to save on costs while still having the opportunity to interact with others in the group.

Booking Your Tour

To book your Private Guided Tour Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum, visit the Viator website and select the date and time that works best for you. You can choose between private and small-group tour options and select the number of people in your group. During the checkout process, you’ll be asked to provide your contact information and payment details.If you want to book the tour directly from this guide, you can book the tour here.

Conclusion

The Private Guided Tour Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum is an enriching experience that allows you to learn about American history and culture while admiring famous masterpieces. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily plan your tour and make the most of your time in Washington DC. Choose between private and small-group options depending on your preferences, and trust that your knowledgeable guide will make the tour a personalized and unforgettable experience.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Washington Dc

Washington DC, the capital of the United States is an extraordinary and unique city that attracts millions of visitors every year. Home to some of the most prominent landmarks that represent the nation, Washington DC offers an array of tourist attractions that appeal to all ages and interests. In this guide, we will provide you with essential information on how to spend your time as a tourist in Washington Dc.

1. Plan your trip in advance

Washington DC has so much to offer, and you don’t want to miss out on any of it. So, it is crucial to plan your trip in advance to make the most of your stay. Start by deciding when to visit, research the weather conditions, and the peak season. During peak seasons, it might be difficult to get tickets, so it’s best to book them in advance.

2. Visit the National Mall

Visiting the National Mall should be on top of your list when visiting Washington DC. The National Mall is a vast open park that stretches from the Lincoln Memorial to the U.S. Capitol building. The Mall is home to numerous monuments, memorials, and museums, including the Smithsonian Museums. It takes at least two days to visit all the museums in the National Mall, so plan your visit accordingly.

3. Explore the Smithsonian Museums

The Smithsonian Museums are the most visited museums in the world, and with good reason. There are more than twenty museums and galleries that cover a range of subjects, including art, history, and science. Some of the most popular museums are the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Air and Space Museum.

4. Visit the White House

The White House is undoubtedly one of the most famous and recognizable buildings globally, and it is the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. The White House tour is free, but tickets are limited and need to be requested at least three months in advance.

5. Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building

The U.S. Capitol Building is one of the most iconic buildings in Washington DC, and it is the legislative branch of the federal government of the United States. You can visit the Capitol building by taking a guided tour, which includes a visit to the Crypt, the Rotunda, and the National Statuary Hall. It’s best to book your tour in advance, and if you book during the peak season, make sure to arrive early.

6. Visit the Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most visited memorials in Washington DC, dedicated to the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. The Memorial is open 24 hours a day, and it is illuminated at night, providing an extraordinary and unique view.

7. Spend some time at the National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art is an art museum that houses one of the most extensive collections of Western art in the world. The museum has two buildings, the West and East Building, with more than 150,000 paintings, sculptures, and other artworks. The museum is free to enter, and the opening hours are from 10 am to 5 pm.

8. Enjoy the cuisine

Washington DC is known for its diverse cuisine, with influences from different cultures worldwide. You can find everything from street food to high-end restaurants, and a must-try is the famous Chesapeake Bay blue crabs. The best places to enjoy local cuisine are the Eastern Market, Union Market, and the Fish Market.

9. Visit the National Zoo

The National Zoo is part of the Smithsonian, and it’s one of the oldest zoos in the United States. The National Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals, including giant pandas, elephants, and lions. The zoo is open every day from 8 am to 4 pm, and it’s free to enter.

10. Explore the Georgetown neighborhood

Georgetown is a historic neighborhood located on the banks of the Potomac River, home to some of the best restaurants, museums, and retail shops in Washington DC. The neighborhood is famous for its cobblestone streets, historic mansions, and charming architecture. Don’t miss out on exploring Georgetown when visiting Washington DC.

Conclusion

Washington DC is a city filled with history, culture, and an unparalleled vibe. We hope this guide has provided you with valuable information on how to spend your time as a tourist in Washington DC. Plan your trip in advance, explore the National Mall, visit the Smithsonian Museums, and enjoy the local cuisine. Washington DC is a city that will leave you with memories that last a lifetime.