Weekend Planner: The National Gallery of Art

The best thing about living near the MARC train is the easy access to Washington. You can be on the Mall in 45 minutes. Once there, explore the many Museums for free.  

One of our favorite museums is the National Gallery of Art. Split into two sections, the West Wing where you find the classical pieces, and
the East Wing where you find modern works of art. They are linked by a moving walkway that is covered with an LED light show – a hit with children.

The East Wing is more appealing to children with its open spaces and great mobiles by artists such as Alexander Calder. Look up when you
are in the lobby and you'll see one of his biggest pieces hanging from the ceiling. When we were last there, one of the visiting exhibits featured a full length Venetian gondola. 

Also in the East Wing are some of Matisse’s cutouts, made during his last fifteen years. The delicate paper works are fragile and only open during limited hours. The Tower has visiting exhibits, we always have great fun trying to find our way up and back down.

The West Wing features more classical paintings and sculptures. Beware that some of the periods covered feature nudity so younger children may ask a lot of questions – or as in the case of my younger daughter, just stare in horror.

We have been twice now, both times we have gravitated toward
the East Wing, and it amazes me that my girls can now recognize certain artists work. They love Jackson Pollock’s work and spend hours at home trying to recreate it. 

The gift shop is also wonderful with a section dedicated to children. 

Even if you think that your children may not be into art, it is worth the trip in to DC to check out the museum. Remember, if they don’t like it you can always pop to the Museum of Natural History (See next week’s article) or play on the mall. It’s all free.

When little legs are tired, hail one of the bike taxis for a ride back up the hill to Union Station.

Check out their website for opening hours and current exhibits.