The 13 Best Museums in Philadelphia, From Art Galleries to Medical Museums | Condé Nast Traveler

"The Barnes isn't your typical museum. It's essentially a passion project of one man, Dr. Albert Barnes, who amassed a personal collection of more than 3,000 pieces. Originally displayed in a residential setting, the permanent home opened in 2012 on Museum Mile. While the collection is comprehensive (and impressive), the museum maintains an intimacy unlike most others. The permanent collection encompasses a hit list of some of Europe's most famous artists (think Van Gogh, Renoir, Matisse, and Picasso) along with African sculpture, decorative arts, and metalwork. There's nothing traditional or staid about the presentation—paintings are hung in a collage-style grouping interspersed with items that are seemingly out of place. They are displayed exactly as Dr. Barnes enjoyed them, lending a very personal look and feel to the museum." - Nancy DePalma