This is a great little museum, right in the heart of DC in Dupont Circle. We've come here over the years. Mainly for their Phillips After 5 special event. On Thursday nights, at certain times of the year, they offer late night museum access beginning at 5 PM, where you can enjoy some cocktails and explore the galleries. We came here for their Pride celebrations. It was a little frustrating since not all of the activities were available. They had a "story time" that ended up having a sign up list that filled up within minutes. And it was positioned on their materials that this would be more open. Also, my partner was running a little late. And the complimentary Champagne also went within 10-15 minutes. I got the champagne and served about a half inch, while I noticed some guests had so much, it was overflowing form the glass. Regardless of the champagne situation, it was fun. The gallery is small and often has rotating galleries. We loved the Miro exhbition currently on display. read more

It is a great museum/collection of art that highlights certain type of art form or an artist. Their main collection is quite good and it will take solid 1 whole hour to see the collection assuming you don't decide to stare at certain peices much longer. Then, plan even longer visit. I have many friends who are associated with this museum, so it feels good to support my friends and their operations. If you are an avid modern and contemporary art fan, highly recommend joining as a member for about $100. Seasonally they usually change their special exhibits. Don't forget to check out the beewax room! So many people just walk past it. read more

See all

For a paid art gallery I used to be so fond of, I expected much more from my visit and experience. Parking is tricky if you aren't familiar with the area and need to park on the street. Many of their pieces were out elsewhere on a loaner, which I found disappointing. The curators watch and follow you like you're a toddler readying to damage the pieces. Not quite relaxing. My favorite thing to go take a look at is the Rothko pieces in the upstairs Rothko Room. As your eyes get adjusted to the ambiance, you start seeing far more gradation of shades and colors you don't initially see it. Very fascinating every time. My least favorite? The wax room. The smell just gets me every time. I also like how many pieces by Kandinsky this gallery has. Too bad the outdoor garden was off limits and the cafe overcrowded. The gift shop has some nice magnets I found great for souvenirs shopping. Would I return again? Probably not given how expensive the visit was for so little to see inside. read more

See all

Had an absolutely wonderful time at the Phillips Collection. It contains some surprises, with artworks from the greats and lesser known artists around every bend. I loved meandering through the rooms and discovering a new favorite behind every door. The house itself is a work of art, so I would highly recommend visiting next time you are in DuPont circle. read more

See all

Gorgeous collection and very well curated. Great gift shop too. Very accessible from the red line. What a treat! I love modern art history. Admission isn't free here, but I got a $10 student ticket which is perfectly fine. I'm looking forward to becoming a regular here since I heard they change out what's on view quite often. read more

See all

I went to this exhibit today at the Phillips Collection. The exhibit featured Vivian Browne who passed away at an old age in 1993. Her work was inspired by her world travel to Africa, Asia etc. The little man series is very interesting, it's about the men she came in contact with during her time working for the NYC school system. She didn't have a good impression of these men which was obvious. I got the impression that Vivian Green was a "bad mother shut your mouth". I would have loved to have met this woman. read more

See all

Small but mighty! Recently voted on a list of the most impressive small museums in the US, the Phillips Collection showcases some of the most impressive American and French art around! As a frequent visitor to this museum, I am continuously impressed by its extensive collection of French Impressionism and its ongoing rotation of American art. From Cezanne to Renoir to Van Gough to more modern American sensations such as Georgia O'Keeffe this Museum can easily keep you entertained for a few hours and keep you coming back for more. I appreciate what the Phillips family did to acquire such a vast collection of artwork and was instrumental in putting some artists on the map. With a great rotation of collections and guest artists, I say if you are in DC visiting, do visit and if you live in the DMV, come frequently. You will often be surprised about how vast the collection can be. Also a pro tip- they have musical performances in the hall that are very popular and worth your time. read more

See all

I stopped by recently for the Mucha exhibit at an after hours event. First, I love that they host these later events so you can come visit after work on a weekday. Also, it was free, so you have no excuses to not go! The after hours events have something special, and the recent event had free flash tattoos based off of Mucha's works. The line stretched around the block and some people waited over 2 hours to eventually get turned away. If you're planning on coming for something specific, try to get there early. It was a little disorganized to get into the event, and the entrance was pretty crowded with people trying to get their tattoo. The Mucha exhibit was excellent. It's great to see his work in person, but they also put it in context with history and other artists. You could see a whole room featured works that inspired Mucha, and then there was a whole separate room featuring works inspired by Mucha. I felt like I learned so much beyond just Mucha's life. The rest of the museum is of course amazing. I don't have a strong art background or knowledge so some of the works are lost on me, but I always love the Rothko room. read more

Amazing art museum in historic building. Unlike the Smithsonians it is not free but not a bad price either and they have discounts. My wife and I really loved the main exhibits as well as the special one we saw several years ago and look forward to returning. read more

Phenomenal art museum with famous art and lesser known art pieces. Their cafe has delicious food. I got the smoked salmon toast and it was amazing. They have a great garden outside the cafe where you can eat. Staff was helpful and it's a great place to admire art. We took the metro so didn't have to deal with parking. read more

See all

While this museum certainly does not have the recognition or the popularity of the Smithsonian institutions, it is a must see museum nonetheless! Located in DuPont Circle not far from the metro stop, The Phillips Collection boasts that it is the first modern art collection in the US. How cool! The exhibits are great--I loved the African Modernism exhibit that is there currently. The Rothko permanent installation has just been reopened as well! Tickets do cost money here--I paid $20 for adult entry. But it was well worth the price! read more

See all

I was lucky enough to attend their first night event of the season and it was very cool. They had samples of chocolate covered strawberries, music and karaoke. They even offered a. option to create your own art which was a genius idea for meeting new people and getting people to socialize. If you are an art aficionado I recommend adding this gallery to your list. read more

The Phillips Collection - Art Museums Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

My friend and I visited the Phillips Collection for the first time (for both of us) last weekend. It's considered the first museum of modern art in the U.S.; Duncan Phillips and his mother created the museum in 1921 on the second floor of their family home (later they moved to another home, and the entire home because the museum - they have also since added a second building). Duncan Phillips married a painter - Marjorie Acker - and they collected nearly 2,500 works of art during their lives. So, the museum has an interesting history and a beautiful building! The permanent collection is on the smaller side but great - the Phillips collected works by amazing artists (including some who were not well known at the time): Pierre Bonnard, Jacob Lawrence, Georgia O'Keefe, Rufino Tamayo, Alexander Calder, and Grandma Moses, among others. My friend and I enjoyed the main special exhibition on view when we visited: "An Italian Impressionist in Paris: Giuseppe De Nittis." I loved the smaller exhibit which closed the day we visited: "Jacob Lawrence and the Children of Hiroshima." In fact, the museum's Jacob Lawrence works were the highlight of the museum for me (they also own half of the panels of the Migration Series). Despite being on the smaller side, the museum has a small cafe and gift shop and everything else you'd expect from an art museum. Time tickets are required for general admission unless you are a member of the museum. Tickets can be a little hard to come by depending on the exhibition on view at the time, but they had plenty of availability over the weekend we wanted to visit. Tickets are $16 per adult. Overall, the Phillips Collection is a nice museum, with an interesting permanent collection, must see exhibitions, and a beautiful historic building. Definitely keep it on your must do list in DC. read more

See all

The museum is a beautiful gem near DuPont Circle metro. There is a parking garage nearby but it is closed on weekends. Street parking is hit or miss. Yearly memberships start at $75. Ticket prices vary but start at $16 for adults. If I were visiting multiple times, I would suggest getting the membership & enjoy the discounts and perks. Hourly timed tickets are also available. They have "pay as you can tickets" too. The clipped badges to identify when we entered, kept falling off. The museum is small and beautiful. There is a gift shop (awesome items) and a cafe. We were visiting an exhibit of an Italian artist that was leaving soon. We benefitted by hearing some of the information shared by the guides. The room gets a bit crowded when large tours are in the same space. The employees are available to answer any questions. It was too chilly to enjoy the sculpture garden. Bonus points for the free coat check. read more

See all

This is an update.Yesterday,I returned to this marvelous art museum which emphasizes art from the late 19th Century and 20th Century produced by French Painters.I saw delightful paintings by Eugene Delacroix,Eduard Manet,Edgar Degas,Claude Monet,Vincent Van Gogh,Paul Cezanne Amadeo Modigliani,,and Pablo Picasso I saw fine sculpture by Rodin and Giacometti.I also appreciated two fine paintings by Spanish Painters;El Greco and Goya, As for American Art,I relished Jacob Lawrence's"Migration Series"which depicted African American Migration to Northern United States Cities in the 1930's.I also was captivated by the paintings of Winslow Homer,Childe Hassam,Edward Hopper,Georgia O"Keefe,Arthur Dove,and Walt Kuhn. At the Phillips,works of Art are arranged according to subject matter,instead of sequence.Being back at the Phillips was a privilege.For those taking the Washingon DC Metro,it is very close to the Dupont Circle Metro Station. read more

The Phillips is a pretty nice smaller gallery in DC near Du Pont Circle. It's got a good permanent collection of impressionist, modern and European art some of which are rotated from time to time except for a few that you can count on seeing always - Matisse, Renoir and Rothko - the Rothko room is one of our favorites. The only thing is while most galleries downtown are free this one is not ($20/adult admission unless you are a member or have guest passes). We came this time to see the special show - African Modernism in America which is quite interesting. The gallery also has a coffee shop as well as a very well stocked gift shop where you can find some quite unusual items. read more

See all

Excellent museum in the Dupont Circle area. My husband and I had a late flight so we were looking for something to do close to the hotel that was holding our bags. What a pleasant surprise this museum turned out to be! Do check to see if you still have to make reservations online. There is a minimal fee to enter but well worth it if you love art. I was excited to see several Vangogh in the collection. There was also an interesting rotating collection that was sculptural. In addition to the beautiful art, the mansion itself had a really amazing room where they hold small concerts in. Great woodwork. The museum employees or volunteers were also very friendly and helpful. read more

See all

Lovely small brightly rooms with excellent exhibitions. I joined as a member but not again. Until this year live music was held in the music room at no extra charge but this year members get a 30% discount on price of Sunday tickets which are still too high!! Members rebel and let your displeasure be known. read more

One of the most beautiful non-Smithsonian museums in DC! Cezanne, Picasso and many others. 3 floors of art and a very nice cafe. There's also free admission for Bank of America card holders during the 1st weekend of each month. Don't miss it! read more

See all

I have enjoyed visiting this museum several times before. I was excited today to bring a friend to see the Italian Impressionist exhibit. You purchase timed passes online. It is a popular exhibit that has been widely advertised, and it was crowded. Our experience was marred by a tour group of very young children who were there with a Russian speaking guide, who was speaking extremely loudly. Normally, you would expect to see school group tours during the week, but this was a Sunday afternoon. We felt like we were being chased from room to room. The children were not poorly behaved, but the guide was acting as though they were the only people there. Next time, instead of booking tickets online, I think I would call first to be sure no large group tours were scheduled. read more

Wonderful place to spend an afternoon. They had an outstanding exhibit by an Italian impressionist - Giuseppe De Nittis. I had never heard of him, but his work was just outstanding. I'm so glad I got to see this exhibit. First Rate!!! They had another temporary exhibit by Jonathan Monaghan, called move the way you want. It was a small exhibit, but worth a time. read more

I'm not the biggest fan of museums but this was definitely one of the most impressive I've been to in dc. I went for their third Thursday event which extends the museum's hours to 8pm. Definitely worth checking out if you can! read more

A great little art museum; very impressive selection! I've been to quite a few art museums. Some of the bigger ones can get overwhelming, so I like that the Phillips Collection is relatively small. We were in and out in 2 hours and didn't feel rushed or exhausted. We happened to be in DC for their Picasso Blue Period exhibit. I was impressed with the amount of blue period pieces they were able to acquire from other museums and the fact that it was so specific and detailed. For example, there is a photograph of Picasso in his work room with the beginnings of a painting pictured behind him. And then the actual painting displayed right next to the photograph. The curators also included the influences behind Picasso's works, so that was cool. There were also a few videos of how researchers were able to piece together that Picasso had painted beneath some of the paintings that were displayed. Aside from the special Picasso exhibit, there are also great paintings by Renoir, van Gogh, o'keefe, and Matisse if you're into those big names, as well as modern art and smaller collections of non-permanent exhibits. I liked the juxtaposition of modern art next to the Luncheon of the Boating Party and that there was a wax installation as well as some sculpture. Even the building (the Phillips's former residence) is cool to walk through. I was able to make ticket reservations in advance through their website. They have limited tickets available on the hour for free, but even if you aren't able to get one of those, the prices are very reasonable. They have discounts for teachers, students and seniors. We needed to show our vaccine cards to enter, but I think they also allow proof of a negative test--not sure how long those requirements will be in place.... read more

Absolutely one of my favorite museums in the world. The founder received the family fortune through the J & L Steel plant in Pittsburgh, PA. It's a fine collection of Impressionist and Early Modern Art. One unique feature is the art is displayed in the rooms of a house (similar to the Frick in NYC). There are hundreds of masterpieces in the Collection, and lots of surprises. The museum has more art than they can display, so you should keep going back to see it all. Renoir's Boating Party is one of the high points, both in terms of scale and artistry. Renoir combines still life, landscape and figurative painting all on a single canvas. The colors and light are dazzling. We attended a free guided tour, and for that we were richly rewarded. The cafe is exceptional, and a great way to relax and discuss everything you have seen. You've got to go! read more

See all

The Phillips Collection is an amazing art museum found in DuPont Circle two blocks from the metro. There's two connected buildings with three floors filled with artwork. *Note - The new 3rd floor exhibit will open in March 2024. Some of the collections they have are: Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, Matisse and many more! This museum is definitely worth the $20 admission price on the weekends! read more

I love art and the art at the museum was wonderful but the experience was not so great. I hope there can be better training of the staff at the Phillips Collection. My friend and I were followed by the staff throughout the museum. It was bizarre and aggressive. We are young and dressed in t-shirts and jeans. Other patrons were well dressed and older. It was disappointing to experience something like this. Even weirder was the staff member who was a man, that stood outside the bathroom as we went. I received the two tickets from my father who is a member of the museum. I hope this isn't a typical experience for other patrons at the museum who do not "look like everyone else". Hopefully the museum can work with their staff to not be, for lack of a better word, classicist. Bathrooms were gender neutral, museum had an elevator and was mostly accessible, and you can check coats and jackets for free (well you have to). Has all the classics and some good modern art too. Inside architecture is beautiful and rich. read more

The Phillips Collection - Modern Art - Art Museums Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

I have belonged to this museum for several years. It's always a great time to go. This time it was the Picasso exhibit. Marvelous paintings and sculpture. Some works I have never seen, others are items you would see around. I have to give the people here a lot of credit. Someone is always around to answer questions and monitor the visitors. Quality all the way. My second visit for Picasso and it's amazing all over again. Definitely a must see if you're in Dupont. read more

Not much to say about this art gem of Dupont Circle except that, what the Cone sisters did for Baltimore's BMA, Duncan Phillips and wife Marjorie did for The Phillips Collection. That is, bought and carefully culled the great artwork of our time. The current exhibition is the detailed Picasso's Painting the Blue Period. See it now! Also don't forget two permanent installations: the Rothko room (four of his large-scale pieces) and the Laib Wax Room. read more

Covid time review- Time set reservation means limited people in the museum. They take temps of all guests . Felt super safe! Incredible collection of modern art! So so many classic masterpieces from degas, Ryder, Rothko, Matisse, Renoir, Diebenkorn, Klee, Hopper and more. Great museum in a historic setting. read more

See all

The Phillips Collection is a must see. The two parts of the permanent collection that are most notable are Renoir's Boating Party and the Rothko room. It's one of those great private collections turned museum. A practical note: parking is not easy. read more

I have had this gallery on my internal list for 20 years. We finally went today and it did not disappoint at all. We thought there was going to be a charge since it's not part of all the Smithsonian museums, but it was free. The has a special show of Paul Klee, but we decided to pass since I've seen him before in San Francisco. The museum's permanent collection is incredible but luckily they had a Klee collection this month. There was a special collection of his works for a few months. It's $12 if you're interested. There were 3/4 levels and very well organized and had tons of the impressionists. I will admit that I personally am weary of this art myself...but it was a delight to see like 10 Monet's all in one spot. I loved this place, it lived up to all my great expectations. read more

See all

Ohhh what a treat. If you art lover, this is the place to go. If you do no have a car or transportation is a easy walk from DuPont station. The museum is open Tuesday-sunday which is amazing for anyone to go. Prices varies from $16 adult entrance to Senior $12.00, kids $10.00, children 5 and over are free. As you enter the museum you greeted by friendly staff. I started in the 3rd floor which offer the most amazing artist such as Picasso, Monet,Vicent van Gogh, Martha Pérez García, Tobi khan, William Merritt Chase to name a few. The exhibition is amazing to see. Once in a life time is a must. Highly recommended. If you have a car there street parking available also by meter or neighborhood. read more

The Phillips Collection is one of about a dozen museums in Washington, DC that requires a paid ticket. At $12 for an adult ticket, it's worth your money. The Phillips Collection is the first modern art museum in the USA and that a lot is worth $12. It's located in the heart of Embassy Row in Dupont Circle so if you Metro to the museum, you'll enjoy a short walk surrounded by mansions, embassies, and historic row houses. Once you get to one of the greatest buildings of them all, you've arrived at The Phillips Collection. Once you get your ticket, you'll walk into a room that introduced the history of the museum. Just past the museum store, you'll go up a beautiful winding staircase (there are elevators too) to the second and third floors filled with Renoir, Rothko, and reading nooks. They recommend you spend more than just a few seconds soaking in the art to really appreciate it and pick up on details often hidden by a first glance. Once you've had your fill of indoor art, venture to the back to see a beautifully painted mural in the alley behind the museum. If you're looking for off the National Mall museums, add The Phillips Collection to the list! read more

See all

Incredible private collection. One of our favorite parts of our DC visit. Could have been there hours longer.

I can't believe I had overlooked The Phillips Collection for so long--I absolutely loved it! Such a wonderful and diverse collection of modern art. Seeing a collection of Jacob Lawrence's Migration Series in person is such an entirely different, and far more impactful, experience than any images you will see online. There's a good amount of seating and a mini Rothko room which is especially nice if you get a chance to view it when no one else is there. I was definitely less impressed by the collection in the historical "house" section of the museum but it was still nice and included a Van Gogh painting tucked away above a fireplace. Some of the lower floors were also closed off when I visited. I'd also recommend stopping by the cafe, which has a really soothing atmosphere and a great place to reflect on your favorite pieces with some tea or coffee. Admission was free when I visited but I do believe you have to pay depending on when you go. read more

See all

I visited this place at Phillips after 5, which takes place on the first Thursday of the month. The art is fantastic. Regardless of going for a happy hour/ post-work hangout it's a nice museum with great exhibits. Phillips after 5 entails live music performance in the parlor area/expansive room, drink options, and cute desserts. However the drinks and desserts are NOT free, you still have to pay for drink tickets to get the drinks, and the desserts are ~$5 each, which seemed overpriced. I would suggest to not come here hungry, or if you are, there are plenty of food options since it's right in Dupont Circle area. The live music, space to mingle and network, with the ambiance of surrounded by art masterpieces made for a very nice night. read more

Ok, I gotta start by saying that if this museums was located somewhere else in the country, I would probably give it a higher rating. But because it's in D.C. and you honestly have a thousand options to pick from, this one it's not event on my top 5. If you ONLY want to see the Museum Exhibition stop during a weekday (Tuesday-Friday) because entrance is free for everyone. Right now they have the Paul G. Allen Family Collection which includes a couple pieces from Monet, Manet, Turner, Cezanne, O'Keeffe and Klimt. It's really nice, but I prefer the pieces at the Gallery of Art. The only thing I must say, is that if you LOVE Renoir as much as I do, they have the "Luncheon of the Boat Party" and it's A-MAZ-ING! read more

See all

My first visit to The Phillips Collection was more than what I anticipated. I came to see the Jacob Lawrence Migration Series and ended up also viewing the Whitfield Lovell artwork as well. Wow! Powerful! Some of the art brought tears to my eyes. From the WL Collection, North, At Home and Abroad, and The Beginning is the End caught my eye. In the JL series, the East St Louis piece held my attention for a good 10 minutes. Violence in the 1920-30s', and continued violence now. 3 floors of art. Definitely worth the $12 admission. read more

See all

I've been to DC many times over the past 30 years but haven't explored many of the "minor" museums. Recently I was staying at a hotel near Dupont Circle and the Phillips Collection was literally across the street so my wife and I checked it out. It was definitely worth the $12 admission. One thing I liked about this museum is that, like the Frick Collection in NY, this is a smallish museum so you don't get overly fatigued in seeing the whole collection. A highlight of the permanent collection for us was Renoir's "Luncheon of the Boating Party." The museum has a nice free audio tour available by calling a number on your cell phone. We were fortunate to visit when they had a special exhibit, Gauguin to Picasso: Masterworks from Switzerland, The Staechelin & Im Obersteg Collections. Included in the exhibit was Gauguin's "NAFEA faaipoipo (When Will You Marry?)" which was sold earlier this year to Qatar for some $300,000,000. It's not every day you get to stand in the presence of such an object. Now that I've been I'm excited to put the Phillips Collection on my regular DC museum rotation. read more

The Phillips Collection - Wow within arms reach of a $300,000,000 painting - Art Museums Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

A gem in a cute neighborhood--it's small enough to feel like a private collection to be shared with friends, but large enough to keep you engaged every time you visit. I love that it has both its main galleries, and then is connected to a larger space with nice woodwork where you have a more estate vibe. Don't miss the cafe, BreadFurst is amazing and the people are great. I always bring home a fresh loaf of crusty bread. read more