Experience modern and contemporary art through a new lens at this free architectural wonder on the National Mall.
Through innovative exhibitions and instillations, the Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden invites visitors to witness some of the world’s most compelling modern and contemporary art. Explore its dynamic collection today, then return in Fall 2026 for the reopening of its newly revitalized Sculpture Garden, an enhanced outdoor space showcasing iconic works in a fresh setting.
What is the Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden?
The Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden displays some of the most unique artworks in modern and contemporary art, including painting, sculpture and photography. The museum is passionate about creating shared experiences among artists, their art and audiences. Founded in 1974 by renowned art collector Joseph H. Hirshhorn, curators continue to expand the collection of the museum, which now boasts more than 12,000 pieces.
The Hirshhorn is located at the corner of 7th Street and Independence Avenue SW on the National Mall, The easiest way to get there is via public transportation. If traveling by Metrorail, get off at the Smithsonian stop on the Blue, Orange and Silver lines and use the National Mall exit. You can also arrive via Metrobus.
Like all Smithsonian museums, entry is free. At the Hirshhorn, no tickets are required. The museum is fully accessible.
What’s inside the Hirshhorn Museum?
The museum has a rotating roster of exhibitions, steadily engaging audiences with the finest in modern and contemporary artwork. Acclaimed Japanese artist Hiroshi Sugimoto recently transformed the Hirshhorn lobby with designs inspired by a medieval Japanese nutmeg tree and its mess of roots. The look and feel extends to a complete redesign featuring a reconfigured entrance and new furnishings, welcome desks, digital signage and a gorgeous 20-foot metal coffee bar that serves up Dolcezza Coffee & Gelato. Visitors can also check out a prismatic light sculpture by Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson.
Of course, the Hirshhorn hosts in-depth exhibits outside of the realm of these series. You can always expect these exhibits to be edgy and innovative, highlighting artists and works that push the boundaries of what modern art can do. Keep an eye on current and upcoming exhibits as you plan your DC trip, as well as the museum’s regular programs, which include educational events, free tours, lectures and film screenings.
And make sure you fit in a stop to the Museum Shop, which features a great selection of unique gifts, including books, toys, art supplies, artist-crafted jewelry and much more.
What’s outside at the Sculpture Garden?
Although it’s easy to get caught up in what’s inside the Hirshhorn Museum, what’s outside of it is equally fascinating. Take some time to gaze at the museum’s architecture, a magnificent circular structure that is the perfect introduction to the forward-thinking creations found inside. The nearby courtyard area boasts a circular fountain that has also become a trademark of the Hirshhorn.
The famed Sculpture Garden (which measures 1.3 acres and is sunk 6-14 feet below street level) and accompanying plaza feature works from multiple artists, displaying their achievements in an open area that is easy to navigate. One of Auguste Rodin’s most famous sculptures, The Burghers of Calais, can be found here. Other popular works include Yoko Ono’s Wish Tree for Washington, DC and David Smith’s Cubi XII. The garden is currently undergoing a $68 million revitalization project with a reopening expected in Fall 2026.
