Wandering around the city of Washington, DC is a great way to explore some of the best art museums in the area. With over 25 museums and galleries to choose from, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ll go over each of the best art museums in DC, so you can make the most informed decision when planning your visit.
National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is a world-renowned art museum that boasts some of the most iconic and renowned paintings and sculptures in the world. The museum features a wide range of artwork from around the world, including paintings by Rembrandt, Michelangelo, and da Vinci. Admission to the museum is free for all visitors, making it a great place to visit regardless of your budget.
National Museum of American History
If you’re looking for a museum with plenty of history, National Museum of American History is the place to go in Washington, D.C. The museum is home to exhibits on American history from the Native Americans to modern day life. You’ll find artifacts from all over the United States displayed here, so there’s something for everyone. Even if you’re not interested in American history, the museum has a great selection of art galleries that are sure to please any art lover.
Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum is one of the most popular museums in Washington, D.C. The museum houses a vast collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and artifacts from the history of aviation and space exploration. Highlights of the museum include the Wright Brothers’ first airplane, the Apollo 11 Lunar Module, and the Hubble Space Telescope. The museum is open daily from 10:00am to 5:30pm. Admission is free for all visitors.
American Art Museum
The American Art Museum, located in the heart of downtown Washington, DC, is one of the world’s most renowned art museums. With more than two million works of art in its collection, the American Art Museum offers visitors a comprehensive view of America’s artistic heritage. Highlights of the museum’s collection include American paintings from the 17th to 20th centuries, as well as sculpture, photography, and prints. The museum also houses an impressive range of temporary exhibits that provide a snapshot of American art over the last 100 years.
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden has a large collection of contemporary art that is sure to impress any visitor. The museum also features an impressive roster of classical and traditional sculptures, making it a great place to explore for all art lovers. The Hirshhorn is also home to the world’s largest public collection of work by Henri Matisse, as well as pieces by Pablo Picasso, Elaine de Kooning, and other notable artists. The Hirshhorn is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
What is the Best Museum for Kids?
DC has a lot of museums that are suitable for kids. Some are more kid-friendly than others.
The National Gallery of Art is a great place to visit with your kids. It’s open until 10pm and has plenty of interactive exhibits for your kids to enjoy. If you’re looking for something outdoors, The National Arboretum is an excellent choice. It’s an outdoor museum that houses over 500 different types of trees and plants, as well as the largest collection of trees in North America.