You will need prepurchased tickets, and a brain not already overwhelmed by art (so we don't suggest you go there after a morning at another art museum). It is technically not a museum, so it's a bit different in how you get in, etc., but completely worth it. The art is very differently hung, but I don't think you'll get... More

Barnes museum has lovely grounds and building. The exhibits are difficult to follow even with the free audio guide. Each gallery wall is full of paintings and nick knacks that Barnes says go together. Audio guide selects out a few, so you miss some special paintings. Bench in each room has reference guide to every art piece on walls and... More

I'd heard the saga/drama about the fate of Dr. Barnes' collection of course, but hadn't really understood until I saw it what an extraordinary - world-class, in fact - collection of early 20th century masters it is. You won't see more or better French Impressionist paintings gathered together very often - maybe never - and it's beautifully presented in its... More

I actually enjoyed the "old house" feel of the former location outside the city- you could feel the ghost of Mr Barnes in the rooms - but this was lovely, uncrowded due to the timed entry system, great art, not overwhelming. Someone said later that it would be good to start on the 2nd floor and work your way down... More

Our family of four hopped off the big bus tour at this stop, excited to see the impressionists' art work. Instead, we were greeted by the chilly staff of this museum, and informed that, because we did not have advance reservations, our admission would be $80. We were informed that this was a discount rate! We were allowed to tour... More

I've visited The Barnes a few times over the years, this was my first visit to their new digs. Thy essentially recreated the original location inside an amazing modern building. Dr Barnes was an omnivorous collector and displayed hinges and knives alongside Seurats and Van Goghs. There is some extraordinary work on display and some far less so. The displays... More

Barnes has a quirky way of grouping the pictures and I didn't always get the intent behind the "ensembles" but the pictures are stunning. Barnes had an eye for genius.

Came especially to Philadelphia to see this collection and it was well worth the visit. However it is very unpleasant when the docents talk to their groups (often very small) as though they are talking to a cast of hundreds and so impacting on the viewing experience of others.

If you were worried that the new museum would not honor the original museum properly, your worries are over. This is a beautiful facility with very nice design. We were surprised to see things displayed identically to the house! Whether you appreciate Mr. Barnes' choices for grouping his art or not, there is a tribute that seems appropriate to maintain... More