DC National Gallery of Art Museum Tour in Washington, DC

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from the Constitution Ave entrance to the museum at 6th and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20565. The National Gallery of Art and its Sculpture Garden are located on the National Mall between 3rd and 9th Streets along Constitution Avenue NW.

When does the museum open?

The museum is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm (subject to change without prior notice). Shops are closed on December 25 and January 1.

Are there food options available?

Yes, you can purchase a meal or snack at one of the several Gallery Cafés. Outside food may not be brought into the dining areas or galleries.

Is parking available?

They encourage public transportation. There is no public parking facility at the Gallery, though limited parking is set aside for vehicles bearing appropriate tags or placards for visitors with disabilities. Parking is available on surrounding streets and in commercial garages.

What is the policy on service animals?

Service dogs are permitted in the East and West Buildings as well as in the Sculpture Garden.

What is the accessibility at the museum?

The Gallery is committed to making its collection, buildings, and programs accessible to all audiences. Visitors may borrow wheelchairs at all entrances on a first-come, first-served basis. All public spaces and facilities are accessible by elevator. If you require assistance, please ask a security officer. The 6th Street entrance to the West Building has a ramp to accommodate wheelchairs and strollers, and elevators at these entrances provide access to galleries and public areas.

Am I allowed to walk around the art in the Sculpture Garden?

The works of art in the Sculpture Garden are placed around a landscape of local vegetation. They ask that you stay on the paths to allow everyone to enjoy the art in a natural setting.

Which works of art, if any, can I sit on in the Sculpture Garden?

The Sculpture Garden serves millions of visitors a year and in order to keep the art safe, they ask that you please not touch any of the sculptures. You are encouraged to sit on the benches placed throughout the Sculpture Garden.

How close can I get to a work of art?

They take great care to ensure the safety and the availability of the art for all to enjoy. As such, please keep a distance of about two feet from the art. Some works of art have a limit line drawn around them, but most do not. This distance ensures that you or your personal belongings do not accidentally touch the art.

Is it okay to touch the art?

No, please do not touch works of art. Dirt, moisture, and other contaminants present on hands can stain or corrode the surfaces of artworks. Some works are more fragile than they appear, and even simple touching can cause permanent damage. Help protect works of art and preserve the common heritage for future generations.

Can I use flash photography?

Photography for personal use, including flash, is permitted, except in special exhibitions and where specifically prohibited. Monopods and tripods are not permitted.

Is cell phone use allowed in the National Gallery?

Cellular phone use is allowed in the National Gallery of Art but they ask, in consideration of those around you, that you please not use audible functions of your cell phone or engage in a phone conversation while in the galleries.