Private Smithsonian Art Tour: National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum

The building itself is a marvel, once a Civil War Era hospital where famed poet Walt Whitman helped injured soldiers. Today, his portrait joins thousands of others in this building, which has flirted with art exhibits since 1829, before becoming a dedicated museum. The National Portrait Gallery features portraits of the great women and men who helped build the United States. Presidents and first ladies are on display, as well as famous military leaders of the Civil War, like Grant and Sherman. Discover 19th century daguerreotypes, early photographs, before exploring the Robber Barons and Suffragettes of the early 20th century.

Afterwards, move on to the American Art Museum where artists like Mary Cassatt, a beloved Impressionist, are on display. You’ll explore big names like Edward Hopper and David Hockney in front of some of their iconic paintings. Georgia O’Keeffe’s provocative flowers will spark conversations as much as the slightly odd portrait of former president Obama. Learn about the WPA-era photographs that helped define a nation during the Great Depression, as well as more modern works that will leave you scratching your head, until your expert guide helps bring it all into focus.

Highlights Generally Include: (if artwork is not on loan or being restored etc.)

Obama portraits

Civil war generals (McClellan, grant, Sherman, etc)

Pocahontas portrait

Experience America: WPA art from Roosevelt’s new deal

Famous Gilbert portrait of Washington, the one on the 1$ bill

Paintings by whistler, singer Sargent, Hopper, Mary Cassatt, David Hockney