Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
Museum Hours: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Sculpture Garden Hours: All Hours
Location
Independence Ave SW &, 7th St SW, Washington, DC 20560
Nearest Metro Stop: Smithsonian Station
Food
Dolcezza Cafe located inside the museum proper, ground floor
Museum History
The Hirshhorn Museum was opened in 1974 with the purpose of showcasing modern art. Congress had spoken of founding a modern art museum since the 1930s, but the idea only really gained traction in the 1960s. The museum’s initial collection was donated by art collector and philanthropist Joseph Hirshhorn. Since its founding, the Hirshhorn has worked to be a platform for current artists.
Sculpture Garden
The sculpture garden has been a part of the museum since its founding in 1974. In fact, sculptures made up nearly a fourth of Joseph Hirshhorn’s initial gift. The garden contains sculptures from the 1880s to the president day. Thus, the garden is able to show how modern sculpture evolved over time. Works in the garden are by artists Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore, Yayoi Kasuma, and Judith Shea, among others.
The sculpture garden is located behind the Hirshhorn museum proper. The ground of the main garden is lower than the surrounding area. This allows the sculpture garden to feel secluded from the hustle and bustle of the mall, while still maintaining an open-air setting. Cleverly set shrubberies and paths allow the viewer to see sculptures in turn.
Take repose at the American Guest House after viewing art in our nation’s capitol. Our cozy DC bed and breakfast has comfortable rooms and delicious breakfasts for travelers. Book your room here for lodging near Dupont Circle.
