plan a visit

 

"I think of the Hirshhorn as a true flagship institution for the nation. The architecture itself moves a person along through the experience of the art it displays. It is a theatre, literally, in the round."
—Ed Ruscha, Artist

What should you expect on your visit to the Hirshhorn?
The Hirshhorn presents art in a range of media, including works on paper, painting, installation, photography, sculpture, digital and video art, and works that mix all or some of the above. Our collection of modern art (late-nineteenth century to mid-twentieth century) and contemporary art (from the 1970s to today) includes in-depth holdings by some of the best-known artists of our time, as well as the work of today’s most promising emerging artists. We invite you to spend time with the work on view, ask questions, and connect with it in your own personal way.

While you’re here, be sure to visit all three floors of gallery space, the Plaza surrounding the building, and the bi-level Sculpture Garden. Experience the diversity of our special exhibitions and collection. You’ll see works by local, national, and international artists from varying cultures, generations, and viewpoints.

Stop by the Information Desk in the lobby for an orientation to the Museum or to meet with a guide for an impromptu 30-minute tour. Or, if you want to discuss what you see, talk to one of our interpretive guides with the ? badge stationed in the galleries.

In addition to reviewing our programs and exhibitions, please see the Smithsonian's online guide to find complete information on maps, transportation, and what is happening around the National Mall.

Here’s what’s currently on view:
third level
The third level highlights work from our renowned collection. Several galleries focus on our in-depth holdings of artists like Alexander Calder, Willem de Kooning, Arshile Gorky, and Clyfford Still.

A variety of post-1960 representational paintings by Tom Wesselman, James Rosenquist, Alex Katz, and Eric Fischl highlight the many nuances of intimate relationships while commenting upon different aspects of American culture. Check out what artworks are currently on view in the collection search.

second level
Special exhibitions rotate approximately every four months. These large exhibitions explore the work of a particular artist, a theme, or questions devised by one of our curators. Sometimes we host traveling exhibitions from partnering institutions. View our current and upcoming exhibitions.

lobby
Orient yourself to the Museum or meet with a guide for an impromptu 30-minute tour.

lower level
Installations in the lower level galleries often explore recent acquisitions.
Black Box: A space for new media, where we present cutting-edge film and video works by emerging artists. Exhibitions change every three months.

sculpture garden
Don’t forget to visit the Sculpture Garden located on the side facing the National Mall, across Jefferson Drive. You’ll encounter the work of some of the best-known artists of our time, including Rodin, Matisse, Koons, Calder, and more. The cool green spaces and geometric reflecting pool offer an atmosphere of contemplation and retreat.