National Gallery of Art, Washington DC

I'm giving it 2 stars because of a security issue. This has nothing to do with the Museum, other than the way they handled the incident. I chaperoned my grandson's school trip and was responsible for a small group of fifth graders. One of the security guards didn't inform me that my grandson should wear his backpack over one shoulder. Once we walked through security, and my grandson walked over to meet with his friends, another security guard walked up behind him and yanked his backpack causing him to stumble, then proceeded to berate him. I didn't appreciate that man putting his hands on my 11 year old grandchild, so I filed a complaint and had a meeting with an investigator. After the meeting, he informed me that I would be contacted with their findings. That never happened. I've read other reviews about the security guards and their behavior, so be mindful of that when you go in.

One of the best museums in North America. Not as diverse as Metro in NYC, yet can easily take several days to browse the entire collection. Dutch section is specially good. Modern art wing is modest but quality sure compensats the quantity. Very friendly for kids. Two places to grab a bite or cup of coffee. Don't hesitate, just go ...

The rating is an average between the rest of the family and me. I quite liked it. It's huge and you get picture blind. A few cool French impressionists were nice to see up close. Good place to get an idea of "classic" American painters, which I am less familiar with. The modern side is laid out better, some impressive pieces, though sometimes I wonder who really did it: you get the name of the artist, but the work is more craftsmanship than idea, they should note the blacksmith etc who actually made these ideas reality.

The museum does an incredible job introducing visitors to modern art. The collection is well-organized and displays the most important pieces of art to understand the processes at work that caused the shift from expressionism over fauvism and dada to abstract art. In addition to the “big names” the collection also includes works by artists less commonly featured in big collections. Friendly and helpful staff give great advice on how to approach the collection and welcome you to their special events. I can’t wait to go back there and explore the second floor!

The artwork was very nice. The facility was well maintained. However; I thought it was very rude of one of the security guards who told me to carry my backpack on one shoulder but when I asked him why he kept saying to protect the art however he refused to actually explained the reason. I did notice that other people were carrying their backpack on one shoulder. Maybe it would be helpful if they had a sign if they want everybody to do this. I was not too thrilled about this guy talking to my friend and I as if we were stupid and illiterate enough not to speak English.