Smithsonian American Art Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum - Photo 2
Smithsonian American Art Museum - Photo 3
Smithsonian American Art Museum - Photo 4
Smithsonian American Art Museum - Photo 5
Attraction Ticket Attraction

Smithsonian American Art Museum

At a glance

Ticket type

E-ticket / Mobile

Confirmation

Instant

Accessibility

Wheelchair friendly

Suitable for

All ages

Highlights

  • Lunder Conservation Center: This facility allows the public to observe conservators as they preserve and restore various artworks through glass walls.

  • Kogod Courtyard: The central courtyard features a signature undulating glass canopy and provides a climate-controlled space for visitors.

  • Electronic Superhighway: This large-scale installation by Nam June Paik uses neon lights and video monitors to represent the United States.

  • Folk and Self-Taught Art: The collection includes significant works by artists without formal training, such as James Hampton’s Throne of the Third Heaven.

Ticket Options

Select a date to see live prices & availability

Checking ticket availability for this date…

Not available on this date

This activity has no availability for the selected date. Please try a different date or contact our support team.

Smithsonian American Art Museum English Small Group Guided Tour

Non-refundable
Adult -10%
SGD 120.95 SGD 109.32
No package is available on this selected date. Try another date.

About Smithsonian American Art Museum

Discover the heart of American creativity on this guided tour that combines two iconic Smithsonian museums. Wander through world-class collections of art and portraits at your own pace with an expert English-speaking guide leading the way.

Local Legends & Stories

The Smithsonian American Art Museum occupies the historic Patent Office Building, once the largest building in the world when completed in 1867. The National Portrait Gallery houses the official portraits of Americans who have shaped the nation's history.

Must Do Experiences

  • Admire the iconic Gilbert Stuart portrait of George Washington in the National Portrait Gallery

  • Explore the diverse collections of the National Museum of American Art, from colonial folk art to contemporary works

  • Visit the stunning Smithsonian American Art Museum courtyard and learn about its architectural history

  • Discover the museum's fascinating highlights on a relaxed small-group walking tour

Hidden Gems

  • The museum's central courtyard features a beautiful glass ceiling and seasonal installations perfect for quiet reflection

  • The National Portrait Gallery's 'Eternal Echoes' exhibit offers a striking modern perspective on American history

  • The museum shop carries unique art books and souvenirs you won't find elsewhere in the area

What Makes it Special

  • Free admission to two major Smithsonian museums with a guided small-group experience

  • Expert English-speaking guide provides context and stories behind the artworks

  • Conveniently located in downtown Washington, DC near other major attractions

Available Facilities

Gift shop café audio guide wheelchair accessibility coat check guided tours restrooms

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Weekday mornings are ideal for a quieter experience with fewer crowds. Late afternoons on weekdays also offer a more relaxed atmosphere. Avoid holiday weekends and summer tourist peaks if possible.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

  • Use natural light when possible for the best gallery photographs

  • Respect no-photography signs and avoid using flash in sensitive exhibit areas

  • The museum's architecture and courtyard provide excellent opportunities for architectural shots

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

The Smithsonian is a free institution, but donations are appreciated Maintain a quiet demeanor in gallery spaces to respect other visitors Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but check specific exhibit guidelines

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

  • Summer concert series in the courtyard

  • Holiday-themed art exhibitions and special programming

  • Special curator-led tours and lectures throughout the year

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

  • Keep valuables secure in crowded gallery spaces

  • Watch for tripping hazards on museum floors and stairs

  • Follow all staff instructions regarding restricted areas

Visitor Information

Entry Fee

Admission to both museums is free, but this guided tour requires a ticket purchase. Check the booking page for current pricing and any seasonal discounts.

Visit Duration

Allow 2-3 hours for the guided tour portion, but you can easily spend a full day exploring both museums at your own pace afterward.

Accessibility

The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps throughout. Accessible restrooms and seating areas are available on all floors.

Overview

NA
Smithsonian American Art Museum gallery
Smithsonian American Art Museum gallery
Smithsonian American Art Museum gallery
Smithsonian American Art Museum gallery

Important Information

Opening Hours

Open from 11:30am-7:00pm

What's Included

  • Smithsonian American Art Museum English Small Group Guided TourAdultadmission ticket to selected exhibitions/galleries: Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery and National Museum of American ArtEnglish guideAll gallery and exhibition admission ticket

Not Included

  • Other personal expenses
  • Food and Beverages
  • Gratuities
1

Select your preferred date and ticket type, then add to cart.

2

Complete secure payment at checkout.

3

Receive instant e-ticket confirmation via email.

4

Show your mobile or printed voucher at the venue.

Note: Infants and children will be counted as passengers
There is no age limit for this activity
Semi-private tour for up to 8 guests
Venue Address 8th Street NW
Meet guide on the steps outside the museum's G Street entrance
Start time: 13:30
Please bring your passport or valid ID
A minimum of 2 travelers is required to complete a tour. If not, a refund or alternative date will be offered.
Please wear comfortable Clothes & Accessories
Wheelchair accessible Location of use Smithsonian American Art Museum ticket gate Time of use 11:30~19:00(1/1 to 12/31 Monday-Sunday)

Location

G Street Northwest &, 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States

Frequently Asked Questions

Most visitors spend about two to three hours exploring the extensive collections of American art. You can easily adjust your pace to spend a quick hour or a full afternoon enjoying the diverse galleries.
Yes, standard-sized backpacks are permitted inside the museum for your convenience during your visit. Larger bags or luggage may need to be checked at the security desk upon entry.
Comfortable, casual clothing and supportive walking shoes are highly recommended for navigating the expansive galleries of the American Art Museum. The building is climate-controlled, so dressing in layers is a practical choice for your visit.
The museum features an extensive collection of American art, including impressive works from the colonial era to contemporary pieces. Visitors can expect to see renowned paintings, sculptures, and folk art that highlight the diverse cultural heritage of the United States.
Admission to the Smithsonian American Art Museum does not require a fee, and general entry does not need advance tickets or reservations.
The museum is located at 8th and G Streets NW, and the closest Washington Metro station is Gallery Place-Chinatown, which provides access to the Red, Green, and Yellow lines.
The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators to all public floors, and manual wheelchairs are available for loan at the security desk on a first-come, first-served basis.
The museum is open daily from 11:30 AM to 7:00 PM, except on December 25th when it is closed for the holiday.
Food and drinks are not permitted inside the exhibition galleries, but visitors can consume brought-in snacks in the designated dining areas or visit the on-site café.
The museum offers family-friendly resources such as self-guided activity sheets and interactive digital stations designed to engage younger visitors with the artwork.
Handheld photography for personal use is allowed in the permanent collection galleries without flash, but tripods, selfie sticks, and photography of special exhibitions are prohibited.
The Renwick Gallery is a separate branch of the museum located near the White House, meaning it requires a separate trip and is not physically connected to the main building.
While general admission requires no booking, organized groups of ten or more must submit a group visit request form at least four weeks in advance to secure a timed entry.
The museum provides daily docent-led highlight tours at no cost, and visitors can access digital guides via personal smartphones using the building's Wi-Fi.

About Smithsonian American Art Museum

Weekday mornings are ideal for a quieter experience with fewer crowds. Late afternoons on weekdays also offer a more relaxed atmosphere. Avoid holiday weekends and summer tourist peaks if possible.
Allow 2-3 hours for the guided tour portion, but you can easily spend a full day exploring both museums at your own pace afterward.
The Smithsonian American Art Museum is housed in the historic Old Patent Office Building, which it shares with the National Portrait Gallery. The museum is located in the Penn Quarter neighborhood and is accessible via the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro station. It remains open daily throughout the year with the exception of December 25.
The American Art Museum, located next to the American Portrait Gallery, is often the next stop people stop at after visiting the former. There is an obvious colorful cowboy sculpture outside the building, which has strong American characteristics. The building itself was once a sanatorium for soldiers during the Civil War, and now exists as a promotion and collection of American art. As an art-themed type of museum, artworks such as paintings and sculptures can be seen everywhere, which are novel and interesting.
Admission to both museums is free, but this guided tour requires a ticket purchase. Check the booking page for current pricing and any seasonal discounts.
The museum is fully wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps throughout. Accessible restrooms and seating areas are available on all floors.
Keep valuables secure in crowded gallery spaces
Watch for tripping hazards on museum floors and stairs
Follow all staff instructions regarding restricted areas
The Smithsonian is a free institution, but donations are appreciated Maintain a quiet demeanor in gallery spaces to respect other visitors Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but check specific exhibit guidelines
Use natural light when possible for the best gallery photographs
Respect no-photography signs and avoid using flash in sensitive exhibit areas
The museum's architecture and courtyard provide excellent opportunities for architectural shots
Gift shop, café, audio guide, wheelchair accessibility, coat check, guided tours, restrooms

General Questions

Simply select your preferred date, choose the ticket type and quantity, then click "Add to Cart". Complete the secure checkout to receive your e-tickets instantly via email.
Yes, all payments on HolidaySG are processed through SSL-encrypted, PCI-compliant payment gateways. We support major credit/debit cards and other secure payment methods.
Most bookings are instantly confirmed. You will receive your e-tickets via email within minutes of completing your purchase.
Cancellation and modification policies vary by activity. Please check the specific cancellation policy listed under each ticket option before booking.
In most cases, you can show your e-ticket directly from your mobile phone at the venue. Some activities may require a printed voucher — this will be clearly stated in your confirmation email.
If an activity is cancelled by the operator due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you will typically receive a full refund or be offered an alternative date.
Yes, you can select multiple tickets for your group. For large groups (10+ people), please contact our support team for special group rates.
No, the price you see is the price you pay. All taxes and service fees are included in the displayed price.
We recommend arriving at least 15-30 minutes before your scheduled time to allow for check-in and any security procedures.
Yes, you can purchase tickets as a gift or for other travellers. Simply enter the correct details during checkout.
All prices on HolidaySG are displayed in Singapore Dollars (SGD) unless otherwise indicated.
Yes, HolidaySG is an authorized booking partner working directly with attractions, tour operators, and experience providers across Asia.
Our customer support team is available daily (9 AM – 11 PM SGT) to help. You can reach us via email or chat, and we will work to resolve any issues as quickly as possible.
Some activities offer special pricing for students, seniors, and children. These will be shown as separate ticket types when available.
Tickets are generally valid only for the selected date. If you need to change your visit date, please contact our support team before the original date.
Refund policies depend on the specific activity and ticket type. Free cancellation options are clearly marked where available.
You can reach our support team daily (9 AM – 11 PM SGT) via email at support@holidaysg.com or through the live chat on our website.
No, you can book as a guest. However, creating an account lets you track your bookings, save favourites, and access exclusive deals.
We strive to offer the most competitive prices. If you find a lower price for the same activity on another platform, contact us and we will do our best to match it.
Yes, we often offer combo packages that bundle popular attractions together at a discounted rate. Check our promotions page for current deals.

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!

Log in to write a review.

Why book with HolidaySG?

Singapore's trusted travel experience platform

Secure Payments

SSL-encrypted checkout with trusted payment gateways

Instant Confirmation

Get your e-tickets delivered to your email instantly

Best Price Guarantee

Competitive prices with exclusive deals and discounts

Daily Support

Friendly customer support, 9 AM – 11 PM SGT every day

Official partner of 100+ attractions
50,000+ happy customers
Singapore-based company
From
SGD 109.32
Book Now
Ask me anything!
Luna — HolidaySG

We use cookies

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalised content, and analyse our traffic. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to our use of cookies. Read our Cookie Policy