This museum houses a major collection of European paintings, plus American, 20th-century, ancient, African, Oceanic, and Judaic exhibits. The permanent collection -- with works by Raphael, Rubens, Van Dyck, Monet, Homer, and Wyeth -- is complemented by a program of 12 to 15 special exhibitions annually. A special feature of the museum is the Virginia Camp Smith 17th-century Flemish Kunstkamer, a re-creation of a Flemish style "art room" with exhibits illustrating both decorative and fine arts. Slated for opening in 2009, a $138-million extension will add to the permanent collections with pieces such as casts of 22 bronze sculptures by Auguste Rodin, including The Thinker and The Kiss. Much of the collection will be moved into this brighter home, and most of the current building will be used for temporary exhibitions. You can plan to have lunch in the Blue Ridge Museum Restaurant (tel. 919/833-3548), open Tuesday to Saturday 11:30am to 2pm, Friday 5:30 to 10pm, and Sunday 10:30am to 2:30pm.
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notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
