Visiting With Kids

Family visiting Ai Weiwei Trace at Hirshhorn

Before You Visit

Find out what’s currently on view at the Hirshhorn here.

While you are at the museum

Stop at the Welcome Desk in the Lobby to pick up printed exhibition self-guides and get situated. 

Pace yourself. Instead of trying to see the entire Museum in one visit, choose one area to focus on. 

Go over the rules. The Hirshhorn is brimming with art made from a variety of materials, ranging from paint and bronze to nontraditional media like chocolate and soap. To protect the art, there are two simple rules everyone needs to follow: walk inside the building (no running), and use your eyes, ears, minds, and hearts to experience the art. Please do not touch.

Pack your bag. While wet art supplies (paint, watercolors) are not allowed in the Museum, you might consider bringing simple materials like a sketchbook and a pencil to enhance your family’s time (and give them something they can actually touch).

WHERE ARE THE RESTROOMS?

Bathrooms and changing tables are located only on the Museum’s Lower Level. 

WHERE CAN I EAT?

Grab a snack at Dolcezza, the Museum’s Lobby café, or bring your own to enjoy in our Lobby or outdoors on our Plaza. Art and food don’t mix: please remember that food and drink are not allowed in the galleries.

For visitors with children

NURSING PARENTS

Nursing parents are welcome everywhere in the Museum. For your comfort, benches are located throughout the building, typically near the escalators on each floor. 

STROLLERS

Our main entrance is stroller-accessible. It is located on the Plaza, next to the fountain. Stroller parking is available on the Museum’s Lower Level, near the elevator.

DO YOU OFFER GUIDED KIDS PROGRAMS?

Yes. We offer free drop-in programs. Options include: 

  • Storytime Studio on Wednesdays 10 AM–12 PM: Step into Storytime Studio and enjoy a captivating blend of play, reading, and art exploration designed for kids ages 0–6 and their caregivers. 
  • Open Studio on Saturdays 10 AM–2 PM: Let your creativity run wild at our Open Studio art-making adventure! Activities are designed to captivate everyone—from budding young artists to seasoned creators—allowing you to craft, create, and learn throughout the entire day.