National Gallery of Art - East Building - Washington, District of Columbia

Michaela S.

The galleries are spacious, there were many people visiting but it didn't feel too crowded. The architecture of the building is definitely a piece to be enjoyed itself, lots of triangles throughout the structure. There are many sets of triangular staircases which can be hard for people with lower stamina or mobility issues. Benches are located in many galleries and walkways to rest and appreciate the art and atmosphere. Many pieces are not protected in a very child proof way. Restrooms are located on every floor.

Z L.

We visit this museum regularly. They have very good art collections. In addition, they often organize special events to show art pieces borrowed from other famous museums. Recently, they are hosting the Impressionist Movement. They also organize kid events, like Art Detectives, to introduce art work to young children.

John H.

Yeah, I don't know. Just not the best? There are definitely some great classic pieces, but besides that, I didn't really connect with anything else. Modern art usually isn't my thing, but sometimes it is, but this collection wasn't really it. To each their own. The building is cool though.

Free to enter, no tickets needed. I'd skip this one until maybe a follow up DC trip.

Augusto P.

The National Gallery is a must-see. The architecture is beautiful and the perfect showcase for its renowned collections. Each work of art is given its due space so going through the galleries is such a pleasure.

Mark P.

I freely admit that I don't get modern art, so I have a prejudice. However I think this building is a good example of today's art and architecture conflict in that the building overshadows the collection inside. I did like I.M. Pei's design a lot.

Luis D.

The rooster and activities they offer are nice, overall not much to see unless you're an art enthusiast.

Ivy H.

Very easy to navigate. Lots of different exhibits to see within each floor and in the towers. We went on a Sunday afternoon and hardly noticed the other people in the building other than when we used an elevator. The bathrooms were easy to find and clean. I loved being able to see Pollock and Warhol as well as Monet and Picasso all within the same building.

Luke N.

The National Gallery of Art’s East Building complements its Western counterpart, as the two halves represent this nation’s respect for its historical past as well as innovating for an exciting future.

The eastern annex’s focus on modern art is wonderfully reflected by its modern architecture designed by the late I.M Pei, and the open space of the museum symbolizes the open nature of modernity.

Take a weekend afternoon off to take a break from work. Whether you enter from its grand entrance on the National Mall or through the underground walkway from the main building, the feeling of visiting the National Gallery of Art’s East Building cannot be put into words.

The National Gallery of Art upholds and values its “national” distinction, and we should be proud that our nation holds such an incredible museum.