Experience modern art through an indoor museum and a revitalized sculpture garden at this free architectural wonder on the National Mall.
Through innovative exhibitions and installations, 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 and also make sure to check out the 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.
Like all Smithsonian museums, entry is free. At the Hirshhorn, no tickets are required. The museum is fully accessible.
Where is the Hirshhorn? How do I get there?
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 or bikeshare.
What’s inside the Hirshhorn Museum?
Acclaimed Japanese artist Hiroshi Sugimoto transformed the Hirshhorn lobby with designs inspired by a medieval Japanese nutmeg tree and its mess of roots. Visitors can also check out a prismatic light sculpture by Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson.
The museum has a rotating roster of exhibitions, steadily engaging audiences with the finest in modern and contemporary artwork.
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. Top off your visit with a treat from the Hirshhorn's special location of Dolcezza Coffee & Gelato.
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 now easier than ever to navigate. The garden was recently given a major revitalization, increasing the number of sculptures on display from 35 to 60. A new underground walkway from the museum plaza to the garden is known as Passage of Reflectance and represents architect Hiroshi Sugimoto's vision for the new space, which opens to a gorgeous central reflecting pool. As you walk through the mirrored passage, you might imagine yourself geometrically -- or as the subject of an Impressionist painting. Other additions include a wider north entrance from the National Mall accentuated by Elmgreen & Dragset’s Eight installation, a New East Overlook that includes works by Chatchai Puipia and a new West Overlook with sculptures by Huma Bhabha and KAWS.
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. A Picasso graces the garden as well, in the southeast corner with other bronze companions enjoying the scenery. Notable recent additions to the sculpture garden include Lauren Halsey's keepers of the krown (antoinette grace halsey) and Chatchai Puipia's Wish You Were Here.
Next, complete your arts and culture trip with our three-day itinerary, plus even more free things to do.
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