The Philips Collection is one of the premiere mode...

The Philips Collection is one of the premiere modern and contemporary art museum in the United States. Located on 21st Street near Dupont Circle, this is a must-see attraction for art fans, particularly those with interest in late 19th and 20th century art genres.

Entry to view the main collection is by donation but there is a fee for viewing exhibitions ($12 per adults). Opening hours are 10am to 5pm (Tues - Sat) with extended hours to 8.30pm on Thursday, 12pm to 7pm (Sun). The museum is closed on Mondays.

The museum is based upon the collection of Duncan and Marjorie Acker Philipps and was founded in 1921 as the first museum of Modern Art in America. Here you can view works by household names when it comes to Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Modern and Contemporary art. Renoir, Cezanne, Degas, Van Gogh, Matisse, Monet, Picasso, Whistler, Calder, O'Keeffe, Rothko amongst others are represented within the Philips Collection.

In addition to the excellent collection of art, the property itself is delightful if you enjoy architecture and historic buildings. This is a Georgian Revival style house constructed in the late 19th century. It is recognised on the National Register of Historic Places in the United States. The Music Room in particular is worth spending time to view. The wooden panel carvings above and around the fireplace is particularly impressive.

In the end, The Philips Collection is a very good collection. We very much enjoyed our recent visit and would happily return during future trips to D.C. Best to allow 1-2 hours to view the full permanent collection and to enjoy exhibitions being held during the time of your visit.

Note: The Philips Collection has a very good website. Here you can get a preview of the collection highlights as well as current and future exhibitions that are to be held.