All contemporary art museums to visit in Washington D.C.

Experience the cutting-edge world of contemporary art at 13 museums in Washington D.C.. These museums showcase works by modern artists, exploring current themes and innovative techniques.

Are you a fan of contemporary art? These are the best contemporary art museums in Washington D.C.:

  1. National Gallery of Art1

    National Gallery of Art

     Washington D.C., DC
    The National Gallery of Art (NGA) is a prominent art museum in Washington, D.C. It is composed of two buildings, the East Building and the West Building. Both of these structures are situated on the National Mall, a significant location in the city. These two buildings are interconnected by an underground tunnel, providing easy access between the two.
  2. Hirshhorn Museum2

    Hirshhorn Museum

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is a museum located in Washington, D.C. and is part of the Smithsonian Institution. The museum's collection primarily focuses on contemporary and modern art, making it a great destination for art enthusiasts.
  3. Smithsonian American Art Museum3

    Smithsonian American Art Museum

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Smithsonian American Art Museum, located in Washington D.C., is home to an extensive collection of American art. This collection covers all regions and artistic movements in the United States, making it a comprehensive representation of the country's artistic history.
  4. National Museum of the American Indian4

    National Museum of the American Indian

     Washington D.C., DC
    Located on the National Mall, this museum is dedicated to spreading knowledge about native people - learn more about the history, culture, and art of Native Americans. The museum is home to artifacts from the entire Western Hemisphere and houses also a space for contemporary Native performances. The
  5. Renwick Gallery5

    Renwick Gallery

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Renwick Gallery, a part of the American Art Museum, is located in Washington D.C., United States. The gallery's focus is on American art and decorative arts, spanning from the 19th to the 21st century. This offers visitors a comprehensive view of the evolution of American art over the centuries.
  6. National Museum of African Art6

    National Museum of African Art

     Washington D.C., DC
    The National Museum of African Art, a part of the Smithsonian Institution, is situated at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This location is a hub of cultural and historical significance, making it an ideal spot for tourists interested in African art and culture.
  7. Kreeger Museum7

    Kreeger Museum

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Kreeger Museum, situated in Washington D.C., is a non-profit institution dedicated to the exhibition of modern and contemporary art. This museum offers a unique experience for art enthusiasts, providing a diverse collection of artworks from various periods and styles.
  8. National Museum of Women In the Arts8

    National Museum of Women In the Arts

     Washington D.C., DC
    The National Museum of Women in the Arts, located in Washington, is recognized as one of the larger art museums in the United States. It holds the unique distinction of being the largest museum in the world that is dedicated solely to collecting and showcasing artworks created by women.
  9. Art Museum of the Americas9

    Art Museum of the Americas

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Art Museum of the Americas (AMA), situated in Washington, D.C., holds the distinction of being the first art museum in the United States that primarily focuses on showcasing modern and contemporary art from Latin America and the Caribbean. This unique focus makes it a significant cultural destination for those interested in these specific art genres and regions.
  10. Arthur M. Sackler Gallery10

    Arthur M. Sackler Gallery

     Washington D.C., DC
    The Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, along with the Freer Gallery of Art, forms the national museums of Asian art of the Smithsonian Institution. These galleries are a part of the Smithsonian Institution, which is a group of museums and research centers administered by the United States government. The Sackler Gallery, founded in 1987, is named after Arthur M. Sackler who donated about 1,000 objects and $4 million for the construction of the museum.
  11. S. Dillon Ripley Center11

    S. Dillon Ripley Center

     Washington D.C., DC
    The S. Dillon Ripley Center, often referred to as the Ripley Center, is a significant part of the Smithsonian Institution series of museums. It is strategically located in the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This location makes it easily accessible to tourists who are exploring the city's rich history and culture.
  12. O Street Museum12

    O Street Museum

     Washington D.C., DC
    The O Street Museum Foundation, located in Washington, D.C., is a unique museum that emphasizes the exploration of the creative process. The museum is situated within five interconnected townhouses, featuring over 100 rooms and 32 secret doors. This unique layout provides a fascinating and immersive experience for visitors.
  13. American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center13

    American University Museum at the Katzen Arts Center

     Washington D.C., DC
    The American University Museum is situated within the Katzen Arts Center at the American University in Washington, DC. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique blend of art and culture for visitors. The museum is a part of the university's commitment to promoting art and culture, making it a significant destination for art enthusiasts.