National Portrait Gallery

Visit the National Portrait Gallery During Your Stay at Mercure Canberra

Looking for the best cultural attractions in Canberra? The National Portrait Gallery Canberra is one of the city’s most celebrated destinations. The gallery offers visitors the opportunity to discover the people who have shaped Australia’s history, culture and identity through an extraordinary collection of portraits.

Located on King Edward Terrace in Parkes, the gallery is just a short drive from Mercure Canberra, making it an ideal addition to your Canberra itinerary. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway, family holiday, business trip or cultural escape, the National Portrait Gallery provides an engaging experience for all ages.

What to See at the National Portrait Gallery Canberra

The gallery features more than 3,000 portraits of notable Australians. These include artists, athletes, scientists, musicians, politicians and community leaders. Through paintings, photography, sculpture and multimedia installations, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the stories and achievements that have helped shape the nation.

Highlights include:

  • Inspiring permanent portrait collections
  • Regular special exhibitions and visiting displays
  • Interactive and family-friendly experiences
  • A contemporary café perfect for a relaxing break
  • A gallery store featuring Australian-designed gifts and books

Staying at Mercure Canberra

Mercure Canberra is the perfect base for exploring Canberra’s leading cultural attractions. Located in the historic suburb of Braddon, our heritage-listed hotel combines classic charm with modern comfort. Guests can enjoy easy access to the National Portrait Gallery, National Gallery of Australia, Australian War Memorial, Parliament House and Lake Burley Griffin.

Guests staying at Mercure Canberra can enjoy:

  • Comfortable accommodation close to Canberra’s top attractions
  • Convenient access to the Parliamentary Triangle
  • On-site dining and bar facilities
  • Easy parking and transport connections
  • A central location for both leisure and business travellers

After a day of sightseeing, return to Mercure Canberra and relax in one of Canberra’s most iconic hotels. Meanwhile, our convenient location makes it easy to continue exploring the city.

Visitor Information

    • Location: King Edward Terrace, Parkes ACT
    • Distance from Mercure Canberra: Approximately 9 minutes by car
    • Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm (closed Christmas Day)
    • Admission: General admission is free, with select special exhibitions requiring paid entry.

Why Visit the National Portrait Gallery?

The National Portrait Gallery Canberra offers a distinctive way to explore Australian history through the lives and stories of remarkable individuals. Combining world-class art, engaging exhibitions and an outstanding location within Canberra’s cultural precinct, it is a must-visit attraction for tourists and locals alike.

When planning your Canberra accommodation, choose Mercure Canberra. Enjoy easy access to the National Portrait Gallery and many of the capital’s most popular attractions. Book your stay today and experience the best of Canberra’s arts, culture and history. View our Accommodation Offers or Book Now.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is the National Portrait Gallery from Mercure Canberra?

The National Portrait Gallery is located approximately 10 minutes by car from Mercure Canberra, making it an easy and convenient attraction to visit during your stay.

Is entry to the National Portrait Gallery Canberra free?

General admission to the National Portrait Gallery is free. Some temporary and special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

What can you see at the National Portrait Gallery?

Visitors can explore portraits of notable Australians through paintings, photographs, sculptures and multimedia exhibitions that tell the stories of people who have shaped the nation.

What attractions are near the National Portrait Gallery?

The gallery is located within Canberra’s cultural precinct and is close to the National Gallery of Australia, Parliament House, the High Court of Australia and Lake Burley Griffin.

Where should I stay when visiting the National Portrait Gallery Canberra?

Mercure Canberra offers comfortable accommodation within easy reach of the National Portrait Gallery and many of Canberra’s leading attractions, making it an ideal base for exploring the city.