National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. is a Smithsonian museum dedicated to portraits of individuals important to American history and culture. It is housed in the historic Old Patent Office Building in downtown Washington.

Exhibitions present painted and photographic portraits, sculptures and multimedia works that document political leaders, artists, activists and other figures significant to the United States. The museum offers both permanent installations and rotating thematic exhibitions highlighting individuals and moments in American history.

Created by congressional act and brought under Smithsonian administration, the gallery’s collection and programs have grown since the late 20th century to become a major center for portraiture and American cultural interpretation. The museum occupies a restored 19th-century federal building shared with the American Art Museum.

The gallery sits on F Street NW in downtown Washington, within the broader Mall and museum district and easily reachable on foot or by public transit.

• Building and affiliation: Housed in the historic Old Patent Office Building, the museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution and shares the building with the American Art Museum.
• Collection focus: Focuses on portraits of Americans who have shaped the nation's history and culture, shown in rotating and permanent exhibitions.