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Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Museums

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

A Smithsonian architectural wonder featuring international modern and contemporary art within a striking cylindrical building and a multilevel sunken sculpture garden on the National Mall.

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Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
hirshhorn.si.edu, og_image_hirshhorn.si.edu

What is the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden known for?

It is a leading voice for contemporary art and culture that focuses on international modern and contemporary art, specifically emphasizing art from the post-World War II period and the last 50 years. The museum displays painting, sculpture, and photography, with a collection boasting more than 12,000 pieces.

Is it free to visit?

Yes, the museum offers free admission.

What are the hours?

The museum is open daily (Monday through Sunday) from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

What is the architecture of the museum like?

Designed by architect Gordon Bunshaft, the museum features a celebrated cylindrical building with over 60,000 square feet of exhibition space, an adjoining plaza, and a multilevel sunken sculpture garden spanning 4 acres.

Where is it located?

The museum is located on the National Mall at Independence Ave and 7th St, Washington, DC 20560.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is a cornerstone of the Smithsonian Institution, designed by architect Gordon Bunshaft. The museum was established in 1966 by an act of Congress and officially opened its doors to the public on October 1, 1974. It was initially endowed during the 1960s through the permanent art collection of Joseph H. Hirshhorn, and today the collection has grown to boast more than 12,000 pieces. The facility is celebrated for its unique cylindrical building, which houses over 60,000 square feet of exhibition space. This high circular structure serves as a national platform for contemporary art and culture, focusing primarily on the post–World War II period. Visitors can explore a diverse array of media, including painting, sculpture, and photography, with a particular emphasis on art created during the last 50 years. Beyond the interior galleries, the museum features an adjoining plaza and a multilevel sunken sculpture garden spanning 4 acres of outdoor space. This outdoor area continues to evolve, with plans to reopen a revamped garden in October 2026 featuring eight newly acquired works on the grounds. The museum aims to educate the public on the transformational potential of modern art, maintaining its role as a leading voice for the artists of our time.

Visitor tips

  • Admission is free, making it an accessible stop for any itinerary.
  • The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
  • Plan for a visit on any day of the year, as it is open 364 days annually.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the 60,000 square feet of indoor space and the multilevel outdoor garden.

Nearby context

Located at Independence Ave and 7th St, the Hirshhorn is situated on the National Mall, placing it in the heart of the city's museum district and within walking distance of other major Smithsonian institutions.

Sources

Evidence and links