I am going to be visiting DC next week. I love impressionist art and plan to see the National Gallery for sure, but I'm trying to decide between the Corcoran and the Phillips. If I could pick just one, which one would you recommend? I am a bit concerned that the Phillips has a huge collection of pieces that are traveling away from the museum, including the Boating Party ... does anyone know anything about this and if the lack of these pieces would significantly impact my experience should I go to the Phillips?

Thanks!

topping. anyone?

Joe, The Phillips would be the logical choice if not for the travelling show you mentioned which puts their "greatest hits" on the road, many of those being impressionists. So I'd say that might substantially impact your visit.

I don't think of the Corcoran as having a major impressionist collection. I'm sure someone will correct me if I'm wrong.

If you're open to post impressionist art then I'd say it's a toss up for visiting either the Corcoran or the Phillips. I love 'em both.

You'll get a wonderful fill of impressionists at the National Gallery. Hope you take a chance on one of the other two places.

Thanks!

JoeTro-

I was in DC in July and went to both Cocoran and Phillips. I was disappointed because both had 1/2 of their collection closed due to temporary exhibitions.

FYI, Cocoran is pay-as-you-wish on Thurs afternoons.

Here is the link to my trip report:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...1&tid=34645875

As the previous poster said, neither one is at full strength for at least another year due to travelling exhibits. Both are relatively small. May I recommend the out of the way, but worth it Kreeger Museum! The Kreeger Museum is a private, non-profit art museum located in the former residence of David and Carmen Kreeger. Designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson, it showcases the Kreeger's permanent collection of 19th and 20th century paintings and sculptures. Highlights of the collection include works by Monet, Rodin, Picasso, Miro, Moore, Kandinsky and Washington artists Sam Gilliam, Bill Christenberry and Gene Davis-as well as examples of traditional African and Asian Art.

I second weski's suggestion for a visit to the Kreeger. It is truly wonderful to wander about on your own or to take a a guided tour which provides some interesting insights to the Kreegers and to the design of the home itself. Intersting home and some great art. Here's the url for it
http://www.kreegermuseum.org/

The Kreeger is a great, hidden gem in DC but make sure you read the website carefully. The museum is open on Saturdays 10 - 4 without reservations. Otherwise, Tuesday - Friday you must have a reservation for a guided tour.

Even with the renovations, I prefer the Phillips over the Corcoran.

Thanks very much. I think I will hit up the Phillips Thursday night as it is right by my hotel and the metro. The Corcoran seems a little more out of my way. Thanks for the suggestion about the other museum.