The name of this Washington art museum is technically correct, but it doesn’t even begin to describe the hidden treasures in the collections here. Take, for instance, one of the most visited exhibits: American Presidents. Organized from the first president on, the early part of the collection is, as one might imagine, paintings of the heads of old white men dressed in black. Then John F. Kennedy comes along, and the colorful, full-length portrait by Elaine de Koonig turns the exhibit on its head. The portraits become more personal – even Richard Nixon smiles.
But the crowning glory of the exhibit isn’t a President, but the Amy Sherard portrait of Michelle Obama, which is so stunning it replaced the photo of my dog on my home screen, though I do not know Michelle personally. That’s the surprise of this museum – predictable, but mind the twists. Look for Katherine Hepburn’s Oscars, Kurt Cobain’s attitude, and The Four Justices by Nelson Shanks. The building itself is art – a grand inner courtyard houses a café and a water feature no child can resist running through.
Find your way with 101 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Ala" is a beloved Turkish restaurant in Washington DC. Recently, they started offering bottomless brunch for great value! Also try the drinks...
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"Rooftop at 801" is one of my favorite neighborhood restaurants in Washington DC because they always have something going on each season. But I love it in winter.
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"Lulu's Wine Garden" in Washington DC is one my favorites on U Street. It's the perfect spot for both tourists and locals. I love their back patio!
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"Public Bar" in DC turns into a real salsa club every Wednesday night. If you're serious about wanting to partner dance on a random Wednesday, it's for you.
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"LeTena" Washington DC takes a slightly different approach with Ethiopian food, somewhere between being a restaurant & a casual place. I love the prices.
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"The Coffee Bar" is a wonderful coffee spot in Washington DC, in a somewhat quiet area. I love their outside patio to enjoy my coffee with some sun.
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"Donburi" in Washington DC is a Japanese restaurant that makes my mouth water before I've even had a taste of the food! It's my comfort food in DC...
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"ArtJamz" in Washington DC is cool. It's basically an art studio where I go to hang out with friends, a date, or just to destress with a drink & paint.
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"Izakaya Seki" in Washington DC is the restaurant I go to when I want authentic but unfamiliar Japanese food, a place for somewhat adventurous diners!
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"Dupont Circle Farmers Market" is where I go in Washington DC to spend a fun Sunday morning. I recommend you get some coffee, walk around & take it all in.
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