Off the Beaten Track of Smithsonian Museums-- National Portrait Gallery--- Great Place For Kids To Learn History
By Eric Garfinkel on November 9, 2009
Five blocks on off the National Mall is the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery, one of the hidden gems of a visit to DC with Kids.
This a place for kids to view amazing art work and long their history in the process. Put a face and personality to history is a great form of experiential learning. Portraits of political leaders, advocates for social justice and pop icons hang on the walls of this museum along with a brief description of the subject's place in history.
The portraits are housed in the third oldest building in Washington, the original Patent Office. It has a beautiful courtyard atrium, perfect for catching lunch. Also sharing the building is the Smithsonian's Museum of American Art. Organized in galleries around historical events, this museum provides a wonderful way to link our nations history to the art of the times.
Be sure to visit the Lunder Conservation Center on the 4th floor where kids can watch (through glass) as conservators restore and preserve the Museums' collections.
