Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all Washington, D.C. places

Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Museums

The Phillips Collection

America's first museum of modern art, this private institution is housed in the former home of Duncan Phillips within the historic Dupont Circle neighborhood.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
The Phillips Collection
www.phillipscollection.org, og_image_www.phillipscollection.org

What is The Phillips Collection known for?

It is described as America's first museum of modern art, offering an intimate setting to view a collection of over 6,000 works of modern and contemporary art.

What are the hours?

The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please note that Sundays from 10 to 11 a.m. are reserved for members only, though the café and shop remain open to the public.

Where is it located?

The museum is located at 1600 21st Street NW in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C.

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are encouraged for visitors, although members are permitted to walk in.

What is the history of the museum?

Founded in 1921 by art collectors Duncan Phillips and Marjorie Acker Phillips as the Phillips Memorial Gallery, the museum is a private institution housed in Duncan Phillips's former home and subsequent additions.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Phillips Collection is an internationally recognized art museum located at 1600 21st Street NW in Washington, D.C.'s Dupont Circle neighborhood. Founded in 1921 by art collectors Duncan Phillips and Marjorie Acker Phillips, it originally opened as the Phillips Memorial Gallery. It holds the distinction of being America's first museum of modern art and operates as a private institution rather than a federal government entity. The museum offers a unique architectural experience because it occupies Duncan Phillips's former home along with subsequent additions. This residential origin creates an intimate setting for visitors to encounter a growing collection that now exceeds 6,000 works of modern and contemporary art. Under the leadership of Director Jonathan P. Binstock, who took the role in 2023, the museum continues to evolve its curation. Beyond its permanent collection, the institution hosts special exhibitions and dynamic community engagement programs. These educational initiatives extend beyond the main house to a satellite campus known as Phillips@THEARC, ensuring that the museum's reach extends to audiences of all backgrounds across the city.

Visitor tips

  • Plan your visit for Tuesday through Sunday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.
  • If visiting on a Sunday, note that the galleries are members-only from 10 to 11 a.m., though the café and shop remain open.
  • Make a reservation in advance, as they are encouraged for general visitors.
  • Check the calendar for Juneteenth, as the museum is closed on June 19.

Nearby context

The museum is situated in the heart of the Dupont Circle neighborhood, an area known for its historic architecture and vibrant street life, providing a sophisticated backdrop to the museum's private residential origins.

Sources

Evidence and links