National Gallery of Art

For the protection of the works of art and our visitors, the following policies currently apply when you visit the National Gallery of Art:

1. 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 us protect works of art and preserve our common heritage for future generations.
   
2. Visitors will be asked to present all carried items for inspection upon entering the Gallery.
   
3. Checkrooms are free of charge and located at each entrance. Luggage and other oversized bags must be presented at the Fourth Street entrance of the East Building or West Building to permit X-ray screening and must be checked in the checkrooms at those entrances. We regret that we are unable to accommodate any items larger than 17 x 26 inches (43 x 66 cm) into the Gallery or its checkrooms.
   
4. For the safety of the art work and our visitors, nothing may be carried on your back. Any bag or other item that cannot be carried reasonably and safely in some other manner must be checked.
5. We recommend that students leave their backpacks at school or on the bus to prevent entry delays.
6. The Gallery is not responsible for loss or damage to laptop computers, cameras, fur coats, and other items of substantial value. Such items cannot be left in our checkrooms but may be carried into the galleries.
7. Children may not be carried on the shoulders of another person or in a backpack child carrier. Strollers are available free of charge near each checkroom.
8. Food and beverages are not allowed outside the food service areas. Bag lunches may be stored in the checkrooms but may not be eaten in the Gallery cafeteria.
9. Phone calls are not allowed in the galleries.
10. Photography for personal use is permitted except in special exhibitions and where specifically prohibited. Monopods and Tripods are not permitted.

We appreciate your cooperation.

Updated 10/19/12