Glenstone

Such a unique place - and can’t believe it’s free! If planning to visit the gallery on a weekend, definitely recommend grabbing your tickets several days in advance as the slots seemingly go pretty quick. Some really beautiful pieces on display (as others have mentioned, no photography allowed). The Woodland trail has many beautiful sculptures throughout and we had the most amazing early fall day that made everything pop. Pavilions were closed for renovations still but can’t wait to return later in October to see what’s going on there once they’ve reopened! Definitely recommend checking out if in the area!

If you appreciate thought-provoking art and serene natural beauty, Glenstone is a must-visit. Its modern art pavilions house unique and sometimes unconventional exhibitions that spark conversation and introspection. The serene trails and beautiful grounds make it a truly unique and charming destination.

One of the most amazing museum experiences I've ever had. Entry is free but make sure to register for a time slot online first. The staff is incredible and the food is shockingly reasonable and delicious for museum dining. The out door sculptures are captivating and the indoor exhibition is amazing and well curated as well. The museum is on a huge swath of land and the landscape has been allowed to grow out naturally. There is something mystically eerie and futuristic about this place. It is obvious that an exorbitant amount of care is given to this museum.

It’s a modern artistic museum in DC. Do reserve your spots in advance and the museum entry is free. Plenty of parking spaces available. It’s mostly an outdoor museum with plenty of nature and sustainable architecture. We took the guided tour and we got to know a lot about the art pieces and the story of the artist. Few of the pieces are from somewhere but most of the pieces are just made for the museum itself. If you want to know more about the story behind Glenstone and its pieces and its origin, take the guided tour. If you’re a person who just want to roam around on their own, then skip the tour. We went on a sunny day and it was great to see that they have plenty of umbrellas for sun & rain. Grab one at the visitor centre if it’s a sunny or rainy day! They also have EV carts to carry people around. A private gallery with artwork is there and photography isn’t allowed there. While you re there, check out the “the man” it’s amazing. They also have many famous artist like Jackson Pollock. There are plenty of water corners and two cafés.

Free admission to Galleries and Grounds, though reservation is highly recommended (I've heard there are limited walk-ins). As of September 2024, the Pavilions are closed for renovation but should slowly open later in October (see website for updates). The grounds are beautiful, with sculptures dotted throughout. Certain outdoor pieces or tours happen throughout the day from the schedule. We were lucky to actually view the interior of the Goldsworthy houses (guides were posted at each house and opened the door for us to enter). Currently, the only indoor art for public viewing is in the Gallery, but for me the Grounds themselves and finding each sculpture was well worth it otherwise.

I walked in Sunday with no reservation and got in for free with ease. This place gave an eerie Black Mirror vibe but I liked it. The “Patio,” which is the name of the restaurant, had fresh food and it was good (very pricey though). Call this place pretty or pretentious, but either way, it was a beautiful trail.

Glenstone Museum was the perfect way to immerse myself in nature while also enjoying some incredible art. The outdoor spaces blend beautifully with the artwork, creating a serene and calming atmosphere. The entire experience was incredibly tranquil and a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of DC. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat that combines nature and modern art, Glenstone is a must-visit!

It's pretty with nice areas to walk around. This is a mostly outdoor walking museum, so wear the right shoes. Bring water for the summer, and there are water filling stations throughout the park. For how large it is, there is not particularly much in the way of art to see. There are no explanations of the art or artist on the placards. It was hard to understand the pieces purpose, or how the configuration of the whole Glenstone ground could be meaningful. If you're visiting the area for the first time, there are many other free museums and scenic parks that can provide more impact. It's free so no harm in visiting once. Be advised you need to reserve entry tickets in advance (quick and easy to do on their website).

Such a unique place - and can’t believe it’s free! If planning to visit the gallery on a weekend, definitely recommend grabbing your tickets several days in advance as the slots seemingly go pretty quick. Some really beautiful pieces on display (as others have mentioned, no photography allowed). The Woodland trail has many beautiful sculptures throughout and we had the most amazing early fall day that made everything pop. Pavilions were closed for renovations still but can’t wait to return later in October to see what’s going on there once they’ve reopened! Definitely recommend checking out if in the area!

If you appreciate thought-provoking art and serene natural beauty, Glenstone is a must-visit. Its modern art pavilions house unique and sometimes unconventional exhibitions that spark conversation and introspection. The serene trails and beautiful grounds make it a truly unique and charming destination.

One of the most amazing museum experiences I've ever had. Entry is free but make sure to register for a time slot online first. The staff is incredible and the food is shockingly reasonable and delicious for museum dining. The out door sculptures are captivating and the indoor exhibition is amazing and well curated as well. The museum is on a huge swath of land and the landscape has been allowed to grow out naturally. There is something mystically eerie and futuristic about this place. It is obvious that an exorbitant amount of care is given to this museum.

It’s a modern artistic museum in DC. Do reserve your spots in advance and the museum entry is free. Plenty of parking spaces available. It’s mostly an outdoor museum with plenty of nature and sustainable architecture. We took the guided tour and we got to know a lot about the art pieces and the story of the artist. Few of the pieces are from somewhere but most of the pieces are just made for the museum itself. If you want to know more about the story behind Glenstone and its pieces and its origin, take the guided tour. If you’re a person who just want to roam around on their own, then skip the tour. We went on a sunny day and it was great to see that they have plenty of umbrellas for sun & rain. Grab one at the visitor centre if it’s a sunny or rainy day! They also have EV carts to carry people around. A private gallery with artwork is there and photography isn’t allowed there. While you re there, check out the “the man” it’s amazing. They also have many famous artist like Jackson Pollock. There are plenty of water corners and two cafés.

Free admission to Galleries and Grounds, though reservation is highly recommended (I've heard there are limited walk-ins). As of September 2024, the Pavilions are closed for renovation but should slowly open later in October (see website for updates). The grounds are beautiful, with sculptures dotted throughout. Certain outdoor pieces or tours happen throughout the day from the schedule. We were lucky to actually view the interior of the Goldsworthy houses (guides were posted at each house and opened the door for us to enter). Currently, the only indoor art for public viewing is in the Gallery, but for me the Grounds themselves and finding each sculpture was well worth it otherwise.

I walked in Sunday with no reservation and got in for free with ease. This place gave an eerie Black Mirror vibe but I liked it. The “Patio,” which is the name of the restaurant, had fresh food and it was good (very pricey though). Call this place pretty or pretentious, but either way, it was a beautiful trail.

Glenstone Museum was the perfect way to immerse myself in nature while also enjoying some incredible art. The outdoor spaces blend beautifully with the artwork, creating a serene and calming atmosphere. The entire experience was incredibly tranquil and a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of DC. If you're looking for a peaceful retreat that combines nature and modern art, Glenstone is a must-visit!

It's pretty with nice areas to walk around. This is a mostly outdoor walking museum, so wear the right shoes. Bring water for the summer, and there are water filling stations throughout the park. For how large it is, there is not particularly much in the way of art to see. There are no explanations of the art or artist on the placards. It was hard to understand the pieces purpose, or how the configuration of the whole Glenstone ground could be meaningful. If you're visiting the area for the first time, there are many other free museums and scenic parks that can provide more impact. It's free so no harm in visiting once. Be advised you need to reserve entry tickets in advance (quick and easy to do on their website).

The most magical place that exists in the world. I cannot believe how epic Glenstone is. Located in Potomac, MD, it's about an hour and a half give or take with traffic. I got lucky and got a reservation pretty early because the Pavilions and main cafe are closed. But I still had an epic time. It's very outdoorsy, you are completely immersed in nature! So you do have to make a reservation online, unless you take the 301 bus and that guarantees you entry. When you walk in, you feel like you're in a cult (but a good one that you want to join). Everyone is in grey, they love art and will engage with you. They like to keep the art and nature as whole as possible so you have to ask the docents for more information. The flowers are in bloom May - Oct, specifically for the Jeff Koons piece, and the Clay Houses (Boulder-Room-Holes), 2007 are only on display during these times as well. Expect to walk a lot, bring walking shoes and a bottle of water - I LOVED the hydration stations located all throughout, truly makes an experience superior. I got to see Iconoclast their private collection which had some big pieces by icons like a Kusama, and Matisse. The architecture is stunning and I was in shock, I cannot believe the amazing gift the Rales have imparted on the world. The parking and entry are free! This is my happiest place and will definitely be back.

Absolutely amazing art exhibits!!! And the nature sound exhibit?! NUTS!!! Could feel it in my chest! Really amazing stuff and incredibly friendly staff. We plan to come back in March '25 when there's more on show :-) THAT BEING SAID! I wish there were more blurbs on the walls in regards to the pieces. But other than that everything is set up really nice :) I also wish the staff at each post had the option of seating. It is extremely tough on the body to stand in one space for extended periods of times... To offer a small kiosk with a little pamphlet about the artist and a stool to be sat on would look cool, or just the stool at least. The staff remained friendly all throughout and with adequate seating it would keep stamina better for longer. Speaking as someone with back issues :) No job is worth damaging your body over!

Multiple visits to Glenstone. While there's not a lot outdoors, what's nice is how the area changed during the seasons. The "Shifted Rocker" (I think that was the name) we first saw during November when there was nothing growing. Coming back during the warmer weather when it's covered in flowers/plants is a different experience. The staff is friendly and helpful. While the visit today was hot and humid, at least they have water stations around the property.

What a wonderful peaceful place. The way nature, architecture and art comingle and compliment each other is spectacular. Various trails throughout the grounds allow you to wander and observe Various species of flora, fauna and sculptures. Head into the gallery to view other works of art in the rotating collection. Be forewarned, you need tickets for admission, FREE, but timed entry. We enjoyed a good 5 hours and accomplished seeing everything at a nice leisurely pace along with a delicious lunch at The Cafe. All staff you came in contact with were helpful, personable and knowledgeable about the art and the grounds. Daily tours are also given but we didn't time those very well. Maybe next time.

Glenstone is a modern/contemporary museum that has amazing architectural designs and artwork outside. You can get tickets online for the indoor gallery exhibits ( no photography) w general admission or tickets only for the outdoor section. You will spend about two hours walking outside on a flat gravel trail around the grounds looking at beautiful artwork & bring running shoes for comfort. The scenery is beautiful w the flowers and tall trees on the trail. They have cafes and restrooms on the ground. It can be difficult to find employees on the grounds, but they have cameras everywhere instead. Overall, I was glad to check out this museum!

Glenstone,a modern art bonanza. Yes, it's free, but the wait to get tickets is insane. That said, a certain number of tickets for that day are available on a first come first served basis. The landscaping is done on a grand scale and as you walk around its hard to believe that you are in Potomac Maryland. Beautiful views abound! The meandering paths invite meditation and thought. Because it is a ticketed entry the amount of people walking around give you a more intimate feel. Even when in the museum you're not rushed or feel like you have to move to get out of somebody's way. Take your time soak in the art. We went on a day not conducive to walking around to much,it was close to 100 degrees and humid as hell, but still totally worth the trip. Get advanced tickets and put it on your schedule. It's totally an experience you need to have. Enjoy and let me know what you think.

As a lover of modern art, architecture, and museums, I'd been wanting to go to the Glenstone for such a long time. But you have to make a reservation, and I've always found it impossible to get one on a weekend! Luckily, I learned that if you take the 301 bus to the Glenstone, you do not need a reservation! So a few weeks ago on a Sunday, a friend and I had brunch at Pike & Rose and then drove over to and parked at the Rockville metro station and hopped on the bus. Yes, it's about 40 minutes from Rockville to Glenstone (you can also get on at a later stop, but I liked parking at the train station), but then you don't have to worry about getting a reservation at this incredible museum! Why should you visit? The property is incredible - when we visited in early fall?! So gorgeous. The Glenstone encompasses 300 acres of land, and there are great walking paths/trails with streams, forest, outdoor sculptures, and more. Definitely go on a beautiful day to enjoy their incredible sculpture garden paths! (Another reason to take the bus - you're not tied to a day with bad weather because of your reservation!) The indoor gallery spaces also include some really great pieces of modern/contemporary art. Wander through the gallery building slowly so you don't miss any pieces; there are some rooms that are a little hidden! The architecture of the entire museum is incredible. It really showcases the gorgeous nature/property and showcases the art beautifully. There are some spaces to grab a bite to eat while you explore. We enjoyed a cup of coffee at the Patio, which also has lovely views and peaceful vibes. If you take the bus, just be aware of the bus times returning to where you parked/started! We missed a bus and just hung out for another hour or so, which turned out to be a blessing so we were to further explore! I can't recommend the Glenstone enough - so gorgeous, interesting, free, and no reservation needed if you take the 301! It's a gem!

This place is incredible. Huge expensive spaces between art pieces and buildings. Gave me similar vibes to Storm King in New York. Massive outdoor instillations including a dinosaur rocking horse by the same designer as the flowery dog at the Gugenheim in Spain. There are also indoor art exhibits with amazing art. Tan was an excellent tour guide for the Goldsworthy art installations. They are three buildings containing shapes and walls created with mud and clay. Hard to describe but very cool. Mandy was awesome to talk to about the Ruth Asawa pieces of work. Loved her cicada earrings too. Be sure to get tickets. If you're a teacher, check the website to gain free entry.

A fusion of visually pleasing and considerate landscaping with an indoor and outdoor art installations over sprawling acreage in suburban Washington, DC. Tickets are pre-sold and timed entry. The exploration of the exhibits and outdoor spaces is entirely self-guided. A great alternative weekend activity for families or singles. The current indoor exhibition was a contemporary iconoclast theme. Pack a snack, I did not see any food outlets on site. Enjoy

A lovely super modern experiential museum that you really have to see-because they don't let you take pictures inside the buildings. I enjoyed walking to the pavilion and Be aware that there are no children under 12 allowed, which I absolutely love. It's so calm and serene walking about and visiting the outdoor pieces. I especially enjoying getting a latte at the patio. The weather was so nice we sat outside and caught a little sunlight.

This was a beautiful place to visit and we easily spent half a day here admiring all of the beautiful art pieces both indoors and outdoors. We opted to see the outdoor pieces first so we walked to the Koons first and made our way around the rest of the museum from there. Be prepared to walk around a mile outdoors to see everything, while the indoor part is pretty close together. My personal favorite was the Collapse and the spiral Serra piece, both of which were outside, but the indoor section was very interesting as well. I personally would have liked more context or background information for some of the art inside so I could really appreciate it, but it was still very impressive. There are plenty of water stations with paper cups outside which I thought was a great idea, and there is also a cafe and coffee shop as well. We had no issues parking or navigating the grounds. They did a great job maintaining this place!

Associates are professional, educated and friendly. They appreciate the art and environment. Landscape is amazing and the art work is thought provoking. Spent 3+ hours. Enjoy!

Tickets are booked out 2 months in advanced from Fri to Sunday. However I was lucky and had the day off and went on a weekday. Less crowded anyways. I had a fantastic time. My favorite museum ever. It was so peaceful and beautiful. There's also two cafes on sight with food and drinks. Very clean bathrooms and helpful workers. Multiple parking areas and carts to pick you up from and to if you're at a lot not close to the entrance. I highly recommend this museum.

This is one of my favorite museums in the DMV. It's really fantastic and I love spending a day out here when I have a chance. I was surprised I had never heard of it, but luckily, one of my coworkers recommended I check it out. It typically takes me 45-60 minutes from DC, but it's worth the drive. It's really easy to navigate getting there and they have a free parking lot at the entrance. You do need tickets, but they are free! One of the best things about this museum is how it connects art and nature. Many of the exhibits are outdoors on their massive lot. I love walking on the pathways to get around and like that some of them are tucked away in the woods. I really love the zig-zag bridge area - it looks so cool and is fun to explore. The indoor exhibits are really cool too and I love the materials they use inside the buildings. It definitely looks and feels like you're in the center of a cool art space. I recently saw the Kara Walker pieces here and was blown away. In addition to the wonderful art, they have a couple of cafes that are really cool to hang out at and take it all in. I like the one with the outdoor patio - it's so peaceful and relaxing, and the food/drinks I've tried are really good. Also, the staff is great. Definitely worth a visit!

Staff was amazing! I went with my mom on mother's day 45 minutes before closing and everyone was so kind and willing to explain the different art pieces. It was a great walk and a beautiful experince!

Spent a rainy afternoon enjoying the beauty and art at Glenstone, a hidden gem in Potomac. I was here as part of a group and we were warmly welcomed, given an overview of the buildings and grounds before we were invited to explore at our own pace. The galleries were well staffed and folks were eager to talk about the art. Photos aren't permitted inside, so that you can focus on the art. Highly recommend a visit when it's not raining so you can better enjoy the grounds, even with the rain this was a 5 experience.

A truly wonderful experience walking the grounds and touring the indoor exhibits. I anticipate returning in the spring/summer to see the outdoors in color.

There's a reason that the Glenstone is THE exclusive museum in the DMV area. Incredible docents, conversation-inspiring pieces, beautifully maintained walking trails, and a great overall environment... what more could you ask for? Make a reservation as soon as you can!

This was a really interesting take on a museum. The outside sculptures specifically the Koons and the Smith were really cool. The walk itself was ~ 1.5 miles and it is very scenic, colorful, and relaxing. There are also water stations placed strategically along the path to stay hydrated. The Pavilions which encompass all the indoor sculptures was very avant-garde and worth seeing. I liked the Ellsworth Kelly exhibit the most as it was very minimalistic. Great for a date and art observers, I'm not a big art observer but felt it was laid out in such a way where a lot of context was provided to understand and appreciate it. Also, the indoor exhibit had a nice courtyard and glass walls to look outside. Did not get food here, but they do have a place called The Patio where the serve food. Just an FYI - pictures are not allowed indoors. A great place to go as admission is also free!

I've been to a lot of museums, and Glenstone Museum is one of my favorites. Photos were not allowed inside the pavilions, but their art collections are modern and contemporary. Stunning. And Glenstone grounds are about 300 acres, so there's a lot to see outdoors. I didn't make it too far today, though, because the heat was brutal. I want to try their Cafe or Patio restaurants next time I'm here, because the menus looked good. I can't wait to come back when it's cooler.

This is one of my favorite museums in the area. The architecture is as much a piece of art as is the rest of the area. I would encourage you to wear good shoes because there is a lot of walking in hiking like conditions. It is the perfect place to escape from the world.

I've been to 70 countries and probably hundreds of museums. This is my favorite museum in the entire world. I've never left a museum that has left a lasting impression like this. The landscape design, layout, curation and uniqueness of the works is just unparalleled. I've been three times and every time I'm just floored. Its such a special place and the location is just perfect to complement the pieces. Please go.

Beautiful indoor gallery spaces and outdoor trails with sculptures - if you can manage to navigate the nightmarish ticketing process and score a reservation (no small feat) then Glenstone is a wonderful, relaxing way to spend your afternoon. Be aware that while the museum's hours are until 5 PM, several of the installations & buildings (including the food pavilion) close at 4.

Cool museum! This is probably my favorite museum in the dmv area since it's a nice mix of greenery & contemporary art which I really enjoy! There's plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the art. I love how simple they keep the museum so you're able to enjoy both art and the beauty of nature. My only complaint was the patio - although the food was good - we had the tofu banh mì & ice chai tea it took awhile and the staff seemed really disorganized confused. Other than that it's s cool place to go!

Had no idea what to expect at The Glenstone on a beautiful October day. The staff were all available for any question, but never engaged unless you asked. I loved the different levels of excitement they gave, sharing either the artist's actual description or their interpretation of the art. Most of the docents were excited to be asked and to give their ideas. The exhibits are mostly indoor, but art works dot the grounds of the beautiful 15 acre property and intriguing in their scope and subject matter. This museum is free and recommends reservations. It is worth your time to visit and enter the minds of these various artists!

I ventured out to Glenstone today. The weather was perfect for this outdoor setting. Very cool modern vibe. It's like taking a beautiful nature walk with art sprinkled in the mix. Definitely wear you walking shoes

Went to the Glenstone for the third time while my father was in town, and I'm not sure how it seems to amaze me every time I go. What a beautiful place! Such great exhibits and such a pretty place - extremely peaceful. I appreciate that you can't take photos in the exhibits as it helps you immerse yourself more. Also, the grounds themselves are beautiful. The only thing I suggest is wearing comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking.

Absolutely wonderful establishment where visitors may enjoy rather unique indoor and outdoor exhibits! We began going to Glenstone for Jazz on the Patio on Saturdays in September and what an amazing experience we had! The staff are so attentive, the grounds so well kept, and we loved the live music performed by Tripleroot, a local jazz band - @triple.root is their Instagram handle. They performed nonstop for over 2 hours and it was such a lovely concert in a beautiful setting. The hummus and pita chips we ordered were delicious too. Most recently enjoyed the woodland trail on a brisk January day and then admired Iconoclasts in the Gallery as well as some Ellsworth Kelly works plus so much more in the Pavilions. It probably is best that photography is not allowed inside because it forced me to really study the pieces and take in all the details because I would only have a mental picture to recall. We look forward to returning every season and walking the property to enjoy more of the serenity, plants, trees, and wildlife! Also worth noting is that military members (both active duty and veterans) and educators have guaranteed entry to Glenstone which means advance ticket reservations are not required. I so appreciate that we can visit on a whim any day Glenstone is open!

Glenstone is truly a remarkable gift to the world. If I could give it more than five stars I would. Reservations are needed for this free and wonderful experience. Over 350 acres a beautiful wooded landscape creates a very serene environment. Children under 12 are not permitted and a limited number of people are in so that you could enjoy the gallery without feeling rushed or crowded. The staff is wonderful and knowledgeable andeasily recognizable in grey uniforms. Everything is maintained beautifully. Rainy day you can expect to be provided with an umbrella. It is grounds and buildings well planned and executed....an architectural marvel. It is handicap friendly and everyone very accommodating. I dinned Al fresco in the Patio cafe. The menu changes daily, food was good and reasonably priced. They have extended hours and music spring thru fall.

Visit on a sunny day; this is a must-see place. The feeling of art and nature is just out of the world; It's a perfect spot for a quiet, reflective day out.

Beautiful place to get a nice, entertaining walk in. Spent a couple hours here and it was super peaceful. I think you can get drinks and food which is nice but I didn't personally. It is not kid friendly which helps a lot. I recommend going with headphones to add to the experience. Listened to soft jazz as I walked. There's not much service from what I remember, so download music!

If I lived close by, I think I'd go to Glenstone just for lunch! Oh, it's also a pretty good museum. Such an interesting place! The landscapes. The architecture. The entire experience was unique. Some of it is kind of "well, it's modern art, what can you say?" but even the modern art is not so far out there. It's such a quiet setting, I really enjoyed it. As you can tell from the pictures, we had lunch at the cafe. Be prepared: the menu is online but you're likely to not get a signal on your phone, and the wi-if was flaking out during our visit. And they don't accept cash. The prices were reasonable, although the turkey and Brie was the best option in our family's opinion. Since much of the museum is outside, it looks different at different times of the year. So, we'll likely be back soon.

~ gluten-free review ~ Had an incredible experience at Glenstone today! We got our tickets from the day before release at 8 AM which is definitely the way to go as the month before release goes really fast. After walking around we took a stop at their café and ordered both an iced latte and a ham sandwich. The ice latte was perfect and the ham sandwich was just a pick me up we needed after walking around the Glenstone space. The offer gluten free options for the entire menu and have a few vegan milk options as well! You are outside for the majority of your experience so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and plan your attire appropriately! This was the perfect escape from the city only 35 minutes away.

Not your average museum that's for sure! Came to the Glenstone on a super cold February not knowing what to expect and enjoyed seeing everything Glenstone has to offer! Come early and plan to spend the whole day here. The property is HUGE with a ton of sculptures, nature walks, and a few exhibits requiring some wait time. We came at 11am and didnt leave til 4pm. There are two places to eat on the property including a coffee shop which was the perfect break walking from one structure to the next. Definitely try to come on a warmer day. We came when it was about 15 degrees which is not ideal for roaming the property. The staff are amazing, super thoughtful and knowledgeable and welcoming. Also the museum is free!!! While I enjoyed the overall experience the art itself wasn't my favorite and despite the huge property there isn't that much art and some of the art is just....bad? Of course thats just an opinion but nothing was particularly WOW about any of the pieces. I was hoping the art would generally be a bit more provactive as the building and property is quite a statement on its own. The biggest problem is there aren't any plaques explaining any background of the art/artists. Most of this is found in the various books in the bookshop areas. The staff are super knowledgeable but don't necessarily get at the "why" of any of the pieces/you have to be able to ask the right questions so if you're not someone who frequents art museums or engages with art/installations you might be left confused. They could do a lot more to make learning about and understanding the pieces more accessible since right now what you learn is entirely based on who you talk to. I can't lie the museum also has a creepy vibe, it's very minimalist with lots of white and blank spaces and staff wear these all grey outfits and you're not allowed to take photos which really contributed to a distopian / insane asylum vibe. Would be nice to explore the grounds more so i wouldnt mind coming back-- interesting experience overall.

Amazing museum. I don't have any bad notes. I love the space, so serene and modern. I'm not a modern art connoisseur by any means but I had a great time here. I also appreciate that there were guides at every exhibit/gallery to answer our questions. My favorite piece was "the Collapse"! What a fantastic museum, I will be back in the summer to see more exhibits!!!!

Glenstone is a local gem! I scooped up two free entry tickets for a mother-daughter day with my mom. I admit, neither of us are modern art people. We chuckled at a couple of pieces and wished we'd thought to paint a canvas yellow, and then sell it to a museum. The reasons I'll come back are the setting, the architecture, and the people who work there. Glenstone feels so isolated from the rest of the world. It's a breath of fresh air. The architecture is beautiful and adds to the calming atmosphere. The people who work there are incredibly knowledgeable. Any questions we had about any of the pieces, they had answers and stories. The stories and information they shared with us was far more fascinating than some of the actual pieces. Take advantage of their wealth of knowledge when you go!

Absolutely recommend this museum if you love art OR walking around a beautiful landscape! There's a path over a mile long that brings you past various sculptures. The most popular area of course is the pavilions, which feature different art exhibits. None of the exhibits have information on the walls (not even QR codes--although I do think it can be found online), which is interesting. There are staff members in each room, but they're obviously instructed only to answer visitors' questions. Overall, I enjoyed the architecture and nature most--there's definitely something for everyone!

This museum was amazing and I cannot wait to go back. So peaceful and I love the fact that it's outdoors. Lots of walking, the cafe serves really good food and the staff is so knowledgeable. I also like that you can't take pictures inside so that people can't ruin the experience for people that haven't been. My pictures were only outside, please respect the artist. My husband and I had a cute little date here and just talked and walked and enjoyed the sights. The tickets are hard to get so I booked this months in advance. Truly a hidden gem and must see.

Dystopian vibe permeates the grounds and structures replete with an army of mostly bored, disinterested 'wardens' (all wearing drab, colorless uniforms) more numerous than the art occasionally swooping in on visitors cautioning them, once again and for no discernible reason, that photographs are not permitted. Despite a few bird houses dotting the grounds, even the absent wildlife must sense there's something nefarious going on here.

It seems like it's pretty tough to get tickets but luckily I started my masters at Georgia Tech this fall so I could do the walk up student option where we could bring a plus one. The registration took a little while especially since it seemed like they were training someone new in but the staff were generally pretty friendly. Before letting us go on our own they gave us a map of the grounds and thorough directions on where to find each exhibit and options like taking the golf cart if we wanted to bypass some walking. It was a nice day though so my partner and I decided to walk the outer circle and then branch out to see the other works. Parking was pretty easy as there was someone directing traffic when we pulled into the property. Everyone was good about social distancing and since the indoor exhibits were closed this was a good outdoor pandemic activity with about 1.5 miles of outdoor trail. Also the whole experience was free. What a nice weekend activity when the weather is cooperative!

If you're one of few people who were actually born and raised in the DMV, you probably pride yourself in knowing a little about some of the hidden gems. Well someone take away my Washingtonian card because I did NOT know about Glenstone until this past year. Yesterday marked our 3rd visit and we were committed to seeing it rotate through the seasons. It is a place that boasts the collaboration of Art, Architecture and Nature. It's Modern Art, which one definitely has to have some kind of affinity for to appreciate. But aside from seeing a glazed urinal that had sold for millions, I was really just taken aback by the beauty of the grounds, the collections and the ability to have wine and charcuterie on the patio. We saw Basquait, Wall, Jafa, Warhol... my favorite is the Jeff Koons "Splitrocker" which is a floral sculpture that is literally in bloom from April to October. The only other Koons I've seen is in front of the Guggenheim in Bilbao, Spain. There are gorgeous pathways to walk, there are two areas to get a drink or snack, and in addition to the 11 room main gallery that is constantly rotating it's collection, there is a separate gallery that will feature ONE main artist at a time in all their glory. We were lucky enough to catch the Faith Ringold in 2021 and it was just spectacular. The best part about all of this, is that it's FREE. The owners of the collection are committed to sharing their home to anyone who wants to see it. You DO need a ticket, and you can reserve your spot on the first of every month for the next two months. They fill up quick as it's only open a few days a week. Just go. It's too cool not to!

Admittedly I'm a museum lover. Take me to one and I'm in heaven. Glenstone is a very tasteful indoor/outdoor art installation. Not sure I've ever been to something like this before. Perhaps it could be compared to Longwood Gardens in Pennsylvania or Shelburne Museum in Vermont, but it's just so unique that trying to find a basis of relative likeness does Glenstone a disservice. Getting an appointment requires a wait of sorts however admission is free. I was given a slot that was 6 weeks out. I recommend trying for a morning reservation. I got a late afternoon one and felt like I was pushing the whole time to get through all the sites before the place closed. Wear good walking shoes and be prepared to be outside. The inside museums are wonderful, but it's the outside treatment that gets my attention--and sets this arts space apart from others. If you have museum-haters in your world and you'd like to change that, Glenstone just might do the trick. I believe a visit here would be the perfect antidote for the "anti-museum" person. It's marvelously modern and well-thought through. It's expanding, too. Go.

Such a gem. Amazingly well done, spacious. Scenic. Good waking paths. Friendly staff. Glad to have this so close to my Parents house. I just regret not coming here sooner despite growing up in Potomac !

My friends and I had such a great time at Glenstone. Well worth the drive . Beautiful art spread across the land. Everything was very minimal but rich. The cafe had the best fries ! All the food looked really good. The hibiscus lemonade was the best I had yet. Enjoyed ourselves so much. I'm going back once it cools down

The best museum I've been to. My fiancé got us tickets to Glenstone, which is tough apparently. I didn't reserve the tickets, but glad he did! Only thing that sucked is we went during a really hot day, but it was worth it all! The museum is absolutely gorgeous inside. Modern and minimal - photography is not allowed inside the museum, which sucks because it would have been nice to capture the walls and floors, but on the other hand, it pushed me to actually enjoy the museum. There's definitely some walking involved, so make sure you're comfortable. You have to walk to the pavilion and the gallery. The walk is beautiful. There's a cafe - we stopped for drinks and desserts. The desserts could have been better, but that's not why we went! The Faith Ringgold exhibit was my favorite!

Visited here on a Saturday afternoon with a couple of friends for my first time. There was a parking lot with spots that filled up and emptied quickly. You have to reserve a spot online quite early like months in advance. Or if you have a student ID or military ID, that person can bring a plus one on the same day as walk ins. This place is a pretty big area with lots of serene things to see. The architecture of the buildings are nice to look at. It's modern and incorporates natural elements such as wood and stone. Large windows allow natural light to come in and you're able to see the greenery through them. The whole place takes about 1.5-2 hrs to see depending on your pace. There are two cafes here and they sell pretty good drinks! Some of the inside galleries prohibit taking photographs. The venue provides free umbrellas for you to use whether it is on a sunny day to block out the sunlight or to use on a rainy day. Some parts of the walk is gravel and some are paved so wear appropriate footwear.

This is my new fav local walking trail! The staff is kind and helpful. The buildings are well kept and extra clean/sterile looking. Very modern, including the art. It would be nice to see more art as the facility can truly hold more. I just wish there were more directionals on the grounds.... as we got lost a couple times and felt as if we missed some outside exhibits. We ate at the Patio as the experience and food was nice and cozy.

Beautiful grounds and architecture, yes. But I agree with the reviewers who have noted the sterility and dystopian vibe. Everything is so quiet and manicured and severe that it's hard to imagine that the site doesn't harbor dark secrets. It feels like a futuristic prison camp where gruesome human experiments take place. I was only really comfortable when I was surrounded by the meadows, trees, and streams and away from the structures. Many art collections, public and private, manage to be elegant and peaceful while not feeling like a mausoleum. Maybe adding more color, including more information on the works, and allowing a little human interaction at the cafe would help tip the scales more towards joy and inspiration. The anti-child stance is also mystifying (since the glass is cleaned regularly and all the works are well guarded anyway) and adds to the coldness of the experience.

Have heard about this place for a while now but didn't really realize what it's like so never bothered to look into going there but had the opportunity the other day when some friends scored a few last minute tickets. You can't simply describe it as just a "museum" because that wouldn't give you the full picture. It's actually more like a park with indoor and outdoor settings showcasing interesting displays and the entire well designed space - forest, meadows, streams, and the very modern, minimalist grey polished concrete gallery buildings with huge picture windows and skylights all come together to form one interconnected piece of artwork. This is a place where you can easily spend a couple hours or more - even though the minimalism can also apply to the actual number of artworks on display (more seem to be in the plans). The galleries with high ceilings, a courtyard with a beautiful lily pond have a lot of open space, and the outdoor graveled trails leads you around the expansive landscaped grounds passing several large sculptures. The whole atmosphere here is one of contemplativeness and tranquility and you'd want to go slow and take in the surroundings without being hurried. As entry, although free, is controlled by timed tickets, it doesn't seem like it'll ever get too crowded. They provide large umbrellas you may use for rain or shine so it would be fine to visit in any weather (part of the trails through meadows have no tree cover whatsoever so it could get quite scorching on a sunny 90+ degree day). Check the website to find out when entry tickets will be available for reservation (was told they tend to always get all booked up within a few minutes).