The Phillips Collection

The Phillips Collection, located in Washington, D.C., is America’s first museum of modern art, offering an intimate and engaging experience with a world-class collection. Founded by Duncan Phillips in 1921, the museum blends contemporary works with traditional ones, showcasing masterpieces by artists like Renoir, Rothko, Van Gogh, and Georgia O'Keeffe. Nestled in the Dupont Circle neighborhood, The Phillips Collection is renowned for its rich history, innovative exhibitions, and immersive art experiences.

Why Visit The Phillips Collection

• World-Class Art: Discover over 4,000 pieces of modern and contemporary art, featuring works from European masters like Claude Monet and Edgar Degas, alongside groundbreaking American artists like Edward Hopper and Jacob Lawrence.
• Renoir's "Luncheon of the Boating Party": See one of the museum’s most famous pieces, Pierre-Auguste Renoir’s "Luncheon of the Boating Party," an iconic painting beloved for its vibrant colors and depiction of leisurely life in 19th-century France.
• The Rothko Room: Immerse yourself in the contemplative power of Mark Rothko’s abstract expressionist paintings in the museum's specially designed Rothko Room.
• Innovative Exhibitions: The Phillips Collection offers rotating exhibitions that highlight both emerging and established contemporary artists, making every visit a fresh and dynamic experience.
• Beautiful Setting: Housed in the elegant Georgian Revival mansion of its founder, the museum provides an intimate setting, allowing visitors to experience art in a personal and peaceful environment.

Best Time to Visit

The Phillips Collection is open year-round, but visiting on a weekday, particularly in the morning, will give you a more peaceful experience with fewer crowds. Special events and rotating exhibitions may draw larger weekend crowds, so plan if you're visiting during peak times. The museum often hosts "Phillips After 5," an evening event on the first Thursday of each month that combines art, music, and activities, making it an exciting time to visit.

How to Get There

• By Metro: The nearest Metro station is Dupont Circle (Red Line), located just a few blocks from the museum. It’s a 10-minute walk from the station.
• By Bus: Several bus lines serve the Dupont Circle area, including the 42, 43, and L2 routes, all of which stop near the museum.
• By Car: Metered street parking is available around Dupont Circle, but it can be limited. There are also several nearby parking garages if you're driving.
• By Bike: Capital Bikeshare stations are located nearby, making it convenient to bike to the museum.

Tips for Visitors

• Don’t Miss the Rothko Room: Spend some time in the Rothko Room, an intimate space designed to showcase Mark Rothko's meditative abstract works.
• Phillips After 5: If your schedule allows, visit on the first Thursday of the month for Phillips After 5, where you can enjoy art with live music, food, and drink.
• Audio Tour: Take advantage of the audio tour for deeper insights into the museum’s masterpieces and the stories behind them.
• Café and Museum Store: The café is a perfect spot to relax after your visit, and the museum store offers art-inspired gifts, books, and souvenirs.
• Check the Events Calendar: The Phillips Collection often hosts artist talks, lectures, and workshops, so be sure to check their event calendar before your visit.

The Phillips Collection offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience modern and contemporary art in an intimate, personal setting. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a casual visitor, this museum provides a rich cultural experience that blends art, history, and innovation in a serene and beautiful environment.