On Constitution Avenue NW along the National Mall, the National Gallery of Art brings together European and American art from the Middle Ages to the present across two buildings. The West Building holds older works, including paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Monet and Van Gogh; the East Building focuses on modern and contemporary art. Cross between them through Leo Villareal’s illuminated underground installation, then visit the outdoor Sculpture Garden. Admission is free, and the scale of the collections makes this a rewarding stop for both focused art lovers and a shorter highlights visit.
Two buildings, two art collections
The National Gallery of Art sits on the National Mall and is arranged across the West Building and the East Building. Together, they cover art from the Middle Ages to the present, with paintings, sculpture, prints, photographs and decorative arts in the collection.
The neoclassical West Building is devoted largely to older European art, alongside American works made before the 20th century. Its galleries include paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh. One notable work is da Vinci’s Ginevra de’ Benci, the only painting by the artist on permanent display in the United States.
The East Building, designed by I.M. Pei, contains modern and contemporary art. Works by artists including Pablo Picasso, Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock appear in its galleries. The building also has two skylit tower galleries and a rooftop terrace. Check what is open during your visit, as displays and exhibitions can change.
Cross between the buildings
An underground passage links the West and East buildings. Leo Villareal’s Multiverse, a light installation made with thousands of LED bulbs, runs through the walkway. The passage is both a practical connection and a work of art in its own right.
If you have a particular painting or gallery in mind, take a map at the entrance and plan your route. The collection is extensive, and a few hours gives you time to explore without trying to see everything. For a shorter visit, look for the Gallery’s highlights and ask an attendant for directions or recommendations based on your interests.
Step outside to the Sculpture Garden
The outdoor Sculpture Garden adds a change of pace between gallery visits. Set beside the museum buildings, it displays large-scale modern sculpture along paths and around a fountain. Katharina Fritsch’s bright blue rooster stands above the East Building, while the garden’s works include pieces by artists such as Louise Bourgeois and Roy Lichtenstein.
In summer, the garden hosts free jazz concerts on Friday evenings. In winter, part of the space becomes an ice rink; skating has a fee, while entry to the garden remains free. Seasonal activities and exhibitions can change, so check the Gallery’s website before planning around a particular event.
FAQ
Is admission to the National Gallery of Art free?
Yes. Admission to the Gallery is free.
How long should I spend at the National Gallery of Art?
Allow a few hours to explore both buildings and the Sculpture Garden. If you have less time, use the highlights to focus your visit.
How are the two buildings connected?
An underground passage connects the West and East buildings. It contains Leo Villareal’s illuminated installation, Multiverse.
What is the difference between the West and East buildings?
The West Building displays older art, including European works and American art from before the 20th century. The East Building focuses on modern and contemporary art.
