Experience artistic masterpieces at this globally renowned museum in Washington, DC
Visiting the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC? Here’s what to know about what you'll see, how to get there, which building is which, tour offerings and more.
What is the National Gallery of Art?
The National Gallery of Art (NGA) is one of the world's most revered art museums and a true cornerstone of culture in Washington, DC. The museum preserves, collects and exhibits works of art from across centuries and continents, covering the Middle Ages to the present day. Its permanent collection includes more than 160,000 paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures and innovative new media.
Where is the National Gallery of Art?
The National Gallery of Art is located on the National Mall along Constitution Avenue NW. The three sites that make up its campus include:
West Building: 6th Street and Constitution Avenue NW
East Building: 4th Street and Constitution Avenue NW
Sculpture Garden: 7th Street and Constitution Ave NW
Art with Tosca
When is the National Gallery of Art open? Are there tours?
The museum is open every day of the year except Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Its hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. Admission is always free.
The NGA offers a tour for every traveler, including self-guided tours, daily docent-led tours, themed gallery talks and audio tours available through the museum’s website and app. Check the museum’s official calendar for current options and schedules.
How do I get to the National Gallery of Art?
Public transportation is the easiest way to reach the National Gallery of Art. The closest Metrorail stop is Archives (on the Green and Yellow lines), which drops you off right on the National Mall. Metrobus routes also stop at several locations along Constitution Avenue NW.
What’s inside the National Gallery of Art?
The National Gallery of Art regularly features temporary exhibits that highlight distinctive artists in a range of mediums. From Renaissance masters to modern-day marvels, you will be able to take in creations that advance and challenge form and structure. Be sure to check out the museum’s current exhibits and installations as you plan your visit.
What is the difference between the West Building and the East Building?
The West Building houses much of the museum’s historic collection. Thousands of essential works, organized by period and national origin, are arranged in spectacular and comprehensive galleries across two floors of exhibition space.
The main floor features European paintings and sculptures that date as far back as the 13th century, as well as seminal American art.
On the ground floor, you'll see the work of Manet, Renoir and Cézanne, as well as decorative art, prints and drawings. You can also visit the museum’s expansive gift shop.
The East Building, designed by architect I.M. Pei, is dedicated primarily to modern and contemporary art. Its sharp geometry and marble surfaces offer a striking contrast to the classical architecture found in the West building and throughout DC.
Following a major renovation completed in 2016, the East Building reopened with expanded gallery space, new staircases connecting all levels, tower galleries filled with natural light and a rooftop terrace featuring Katharina Fritsch’s iconic blue rooster sculpture. Here, you'll find work by famous artists such as Alexander Calder, Barbara Kruger, Jasper Johns, Pablo Picasso and Mark Rothko.
What is Multiverse at the National Gallery of Art?
Multiverse is a permanent light installation by artist Leo Villareal that connects the West and East Buildings through the underground concourse. More than 41,000 LED nodes spanning approximately 200 feet create glowing, abstract patterns, lighting the way as you head from one building to the other via an underground concourse.
Does the National Gallery of Art host events?
Yes! The National Gallery of Art hosts programming throughout the year, including concerts, guided tours, gallery talks and much more. Especially popular are NGA Nights. Be sure to check the museum’s calendar before you go.
What will I see at the Sculpture Garden?
The Gallery’s Sculpture Garden should also be a part of your visit. The 6.1-acre space, adjacent to the West Building, features beautiful trees, walking and seating areas and 17 sculptures taken from the Gallery’s collection. Among them: Robert Indiana’s famous AMOR, a play on the artist’s LOVE sculpture. The Garden also sports a fountain that serves as an ice rink from November – March, as well as The Pavilion Café, which offers year-round service and indoor seating.
Is there ice skating at the Sculpture Garden?
At the center of the garden is a fountain that typically becomes an ice rink from late Nov. through early March, weather permitting.
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