What makes it 90% Solo-Friendly: The gallery offers free entry, daily highlight tours and a self-guided phone app, so a solo visitor gets rich content, quiet study space and safe facilities without needing companions.
Why 2-4 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time to explore the permanent collection, join a guided or audio tour, and take breaks at the café.
Smartify Audio Tour:
Scan portraits with the Smartify app for curator commentary and artist interviews.
Tip: Download the app and load audio guides before arrival to avoid slow gallery Wi-Fi.
Daily Introduction Tour:
Join a free 30-minute guided tour at 2 pm to learn key stories behind the portraits.
Tip: Meet at the Information Desk on the ground floor five minutes before the start.
Art Cart Drawing Stations:
Use free drop-in art stations to sketch portrait details with simple prompts.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on Thursdays when stations fill up.
Portrait Café Break:
Recharge with coffee, tea or light meals at the on-site café (9 am–4 pm).
Tip: Try the outdoor terrace on sunny days for views of the National Triangle.

Robert Somerville
A Celebration of Australian Stories – One of Canberra’s most engaging cultural attractions Set in a striking modern building, the National Portrait Gallery showcases portraits of the people who have shaped Australia’s identity, from early leaders to contemporary icons. Permanent displays sit alongside rotating exhibitions, each thoughtfully presented to highlight diverse stories and artistic styl...
Timeshare Chinchilla
Free art gallery specialising in portraits of famous Australians. There is a slight skew to more contemporary art styles but there are still traditional oil paintings (which I love!) The staff are really friendly and helpful at this museum. The first gallery is overwhelming with floor to ceiling portraits on both sides. Use a room guide to read up about each artist and subject. Some of the oil pai...
Lynne Cowan
I spent a lovely morning exploring two of Canberra’s cultural gems. The National Portrait Gallery (Free entry) was a highlight — beautifully curated with a wide range of portraits that offer a unique insight into Australian identity and history. The space is modern, light, and thoughtfully laid out, making it easy to enjoy each work at your own pace.
John John
A beautifully curated gallery that perfectly blends art, history, and storytelling. The space is bright, modern, and thoughtfully designed — it’s a pleasure just to walk through. Each portrait captures more than just a face; it captures a story, a moment, a piece of Australia’s cultural identity. Staff were welcoming and knowledgeable, and the temporary exhibitions are always worth seeing. Highly ...
Korda Design
Korda was so lucky to be able to create this Beautiful Bespoke Rug for the Gordon Darling Hall at The National Portrait Gallery in Canberra, home to some of the nation's most significant portrait artworks, showcasing those who have shaped the culture of Australia. The light grey background of the rug is luxurious cut pile New Zealand wool and the dark grey accents are textured loop pile New Zealan...
Visit before 11 am in summer to escape the heat in air-conditioned galleries. In winter weekends, guided tours fill up fast—book special exhibition tickets online early.
Explore These Activities
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Smartify App | AUD 0 |
| General entry | AUD 0 |
| Special exhibition ticket | AUD 25 |
| Café coffee | AUD 5 |
| Lunch dish | AUD 15 |
| Souvenir catalogue | AUD 30 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 75 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT 2600, Australia
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