Smithsonian American Art Museum

I picked this museum because it was literally an 8-minute walk from my hotel. I feel like I couldn't have chosen better for my first full Smithsonian museum experience! I love that this museum is free to the public! Nothing better than seeing our national treasures put on display for the public to view. I highly recommend the self-guided tour. The museum is vast but very approachable. I think the average person can see the majority of exhibits in an hour and a half. The interior atrium Courtyard is an exhibit on its own.

I went early primarily to visit the Future of Orchids exhibit which was smaller than I expected but was colorful and beautifully displayed. I enjoyed the rest of the museum and a self tour can easily fill a 3-4 hour time slot. The American Art Museum is connected to the Portrait Museum which houses portraits and paintings of historic figures along with pop culture icons. I went solo on a Sunday Morning around 11:30am. I found free parking immediately and near the building. Once inside the museum was bustling but not too busy with plenty of space to admire the art and take pics without crowding. The museum is split into two wings and each side has 3 levels. Restrooms, elevators and stairs are throughout the museum and are clearly marked and easily accessible. There are also comfortable cushioned seating all around the museum if you need to sit and rest (or admire). I enjoyed the split and themed rooms which allowed me to pick and choose which displays I wanted to see. There are so much different varieties of art for everyone to enjoy no matter your style. I definitely would go again. It's a great recommendation for a day out or early evening date (closes at 7pm).

I forget how amazing this museum is. I typically just go to the Kogod Courtyard or parts of the Portrait Gallery. It's kind of confusing navigating between the American Art Museum and the Portrait Gallery since they both take up areas on all floors. The third floor modern art section is definitely worth a visit.

Absolutely amazing! Went with a teen and he enjoyed the art as much as we did. His favourite was the section about the American presidents and the Champions. We spent several hours at the museum and still hadn’t seen all the rooms/art. There is a kids education center for the younger kids on the first level. They can make art/do crafts and play with blocks. Highly recommended!

The museum is much larger than the eye. Highlights for me were the contemporary art section and the creepy hologram video performance. I wish the president portraits were a bit more informative and bulletin as to what they accomplished and messed up. Some of them guys I had no idea were presidents, and why were they haha. The Obama wall with the back having Trump was crazy - very dramatic. Can't believe Beyonce made it into this museum.

Art is so scarce thing if you move from one place to other. The American museum of art is opened all days of week till 7pm in the evening. This museum has all different kinds of American art done over centuries which are very innovative and silly also. Some art will blow your mind and some will make you think why is that art there. They have all the portraits of American presidents from the very first to till date and also you will see some famous landscapes that will make you feel to believe that it is digital print but it’s hand painted by brush. If you like to see the variation you should must visit some time.

Amazing collection of portraits. I enjoyed seeing the faces of so many important people, that are part of our history. The president’s exhibition is also impressive. I enjoyed the different styles of painting according to the time when they were painted. I particularly enjoyed the information provided next to each portrait. The building is so inviting, the patio beautiful! Orchid exhibition is colorful, joyful and relaxing. It is easy to get to the museum, next to the Metro line. I am going back today. Free museums are awesome!

An amazing experience. The magnificence of the artwork is complimented by the beauty of the building. You are up close and personal with the works of Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Cezanne, Monet and countless other Master artisans. The photo of the painted table setting w the plate of oysters was created in the 1600s. The furniture gallery was a great surprise and full of treasures.