Meridian International Center
Tucked behind iron gates on 16th Street NW, the Meridian International Center occupies two magnificent Beaux-Arts mansions designed by John Russell Pope — the same architect responsible for the Jefferson Memorial. Its rotating exhibitions of international contemporary art are free and almost entirely unknown to tourists, making it one of Adams Morgan's finest quiet pleasures.
The Buildings Themselves
The White-Meyer House and the Meridian House, built in 1911 and 1921 respectively, are architectural gems with formal gardens, original ironwork and interiors that evoke the gilded-age Washington of ambassadors and diplomats.
The formal garden between the two mansions is beautifully maintained and open to visitors during exhibition hours — a peaceful spot to sit that feels a world away from the city.
The Exhibitions
Meridian focuses on art and culture that fosters international understanding; past exhibitions have featured artists from Senegal, India, Brazil and the Gulf states, with programming that includes lectures, film screenings and cultural performances.
Because the center is funded partly by the State Department and private donors, admission is almost always free — check the website for current shows before visiting.
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