Overview
The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is a leading voice for contemporary art and culture, featuring modern and contemporary art in a unique cylindrical building and an outdoor sculpture garden.
It is one of the preeminent collections of modern and contemporary art in the world, housed in a landmark building designed by Gordon Bunshaft.
Location
Address
Independence Ave. SW & 7th St. SW, Washington DC
Neighborhood: National Mall
Coordinates
38.890900, -77.021800
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
March-May, October-November
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better lighting for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to warm
- • blossoming gardens
- • outdoor sculptures
summer
hot and humid
- • extended opening hours
autumn
cool and pleasant
- • fall colors
- • outdoor sculptures
winter
cold
- • holiday lights
- • indoor exhibitions
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book tickets online in advance
- Bring a valid ID
- Check the weather forecast
- Wear comfortable shoes
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • stairs
- • uneven surfaces in sculpture garden
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards, debit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, high heels
Booking Tips
- • 2-3 weeks
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Hirshhorn Museum App
Size: 75 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Ticket purchase, Exhibition information
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe, Main floors
Charging Stations: Rest areas, Cafe
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Distance: 10 km
Travel Time: 20 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: It's a great place to see contemporary art in a beautiful setting, and it's free to enter.
Historical Significance: The Hirshhorn was the first major museum in the United States dedicated to contemporary art.
Insider Tips
- Free entry at all times
- Best views from the upper level
- Great food at the on-site cafe
Local Recommendations
- • Try the local coffee shop next door
- • Ask for the guided tour with a docent
- • Visit the National Mall while you're here
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Main entrance
Best Time: Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon)
Tips: Low angle for the building's unique architecture
Result: Great shot with soft lighting and architectural details
Sculpture Garden
Best Time: Morning
Tips: Wide shots to capture the entire garden
Result: Beautiful photos of modern sculptures with natural light
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Distance: 500m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Museum
National Gallery of Art
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Art Museum
National Mall
Distance: 500m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Park
Washington Monument
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Monument
Reviews
Based on 1,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early for fewer crowds"
- "Bring a camera for the sculpture garden"
- "Check out the rooftop garden"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
12
Rating
4.5 / 5.0
Reviews
1,000
Adult Entry
Free