World by City

Museums & galleries

National Gallery of Art

Open in Maps
National Gallery of Art

National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art is a museum in Washington, D.C., established in 1941. It houses a collection of artworks donated by private collectors, including Andrew Mellon. Travelers visit this institution to view a wide range of art masterpieces spanning different eras and styles.

Getting There

The museum is located on the National Mall. From the city center, it is accessible via the Metro or by walking. Depending on your starting point and mode of transport, the journey typically takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes.

Time Commitment

Due to the size of the collection and the layout of the galleries, visitors should allow several hours to explore. Those wishing to see a significant portion of the artworks may need a full day.

When to Visit

The museum can get crowded, particularly during weekends and school holiday periods. Visiting during weekday mornings typically allows for a quieter experience. There is no specific season that significantly alters the indoor viewing experience, though weather affects the walk to the entrance.

Nearby Attractions

The museum is situated within walking distance of several other major sites on the National Mall. You can combine your visit with the following:

  • National Mall (0.3km)
  • National Air and Space Museum (0.3km)
  • Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden (0.4km)
  • National Museum of the American Indian (0.5km)

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

This place may not appear in the results — some sites are free to enter or sell tickets only at the gate.

Stays near National Gallery of Art

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

Map and place data © OpenStreetMap contributors

National Gallery of Art Nearby stays

Check prices and availability on the booking sites.

Pick your dates — we'll search Washington, D.C. hotels for you

Choose dates and guests, and the buttons below will open search results with your criteria. Prices differ between sites, so compare before you book.

Hotel membership

Staying at Accor hotels often? ALL Accor+ Explorer

A paid annual membership. It includes two free nights a year across Asia-Pacific, 30% off dining and 15% off drinks, and 15% off stays at more than 4,500 hotels worldwide.

Explore the membership

Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

National Air and Space Museum

Museums & galleries

National Air and Space Museum

A museum in Washington, D.C., home to the world's largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft artifacts. Visitors can get an up-close look at real aircraft while experiencing the history of aviation and space exploration.

0.3 km away

National Mall

Parks & gardens

National Mall

The National Mall is a vast park in the heart of Washington, D.C., home to the Smithsonian museums, galleries, and numerous monuments. With around 24 million visitors a year, it's a popular spot that makes for a great full-day visit.

0.3 km away

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

Museums & galleries

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

An art museum and sculpture garden on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., opened in 1974 based on the art collection donated by Joseph Hirshhorn. Designed by architect Gordon Bunshaft, the space showcases a wide range of modern art and sculpture.

0.4 km away

National Museum of the American Indian

Museums & galleries

National Museum of the American Indian

The National Museum of the American Indian is a museum in Washington, D.C. dedicated to Native American heritage. It offers visitors a look into the history and culture of America's indigenous peoples.

0.5 km away

National Museum of Natural History

Museums & galleries

National Museum of Natural History

A Washington, D.C. museum operated by the Smithsonian Institution, home to dinosaur fossils and artifacts from American history. It's filled with exhibits the whole family can enjoy together.

0.5 km away

Smithsonian Institution

Museums & galleries

Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution is a cultural institution in Washington, D.C., founded in 1846 with a bequest from James Smithson. It encompasses numerous museums, galleries, and libraries, offering a wide range of exhibits to explore.

0.6 km away