Summary
The six-acre National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, located on the National Mall in Washington, DC, opened in 1999. Amid the beautifully landscaped informal garden, 17 major sculptures are on display by internationally renowned artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Mark di Suvero, Roy Lichtenstein, Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, and Tony Smith. The garden offers a wonderful setting to relax and enjoy modern art as well as trees, flowering trees, shrubs, ground covers, and perennials.
During the summer on Friday evenings, jazz musicians entertain visitors by the reflecting pool at Jazz in the Garden. In the winter, visitors can ice-skate in this wonderful setting. Refreshments are available year-round at the Pavilion Café, which is adjacent to the garden.
Sculpture Garden Location
The National Gallery of Art, 7th St. and Constitution Ave., NW, Washington, DC (202) 737-4215.
There are six public entrances to the Sculpture Garden. You can access the garden from Constitution Avenue at 9th Street, NW, from 7th Street, NW (directly across from the Gallery’s West Building entrance), or from the National Mall between 7th and 9th Streets NW.
Sculpture Garden Hours
The Sculpture Garden is open during regular Gallery hours, Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sculpture Garden hours are extended until 9 p.m. on Jazz in the Garden evenings. The Gallery is closed on December 25 and January 1.
Pavilion Cafe
The café is open year-round and offers a panoramic view of the Sculpture Garden. The menu includes pizzas, sandwiches, salads, desserts, and beverages. The café provides a lovely setting to enjoy a snack or light meal.
Hours are Monday–Thursday and Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (through October 3). Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Ice-Skating Rink Hours
The ice rink is open mid-November through mid-March, weather permitting. The hours are Monday–Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Skating Fees
The fees for a two-hour session (beginning on the hour) are $8 for adults, $7 for skaters aged 50 and over, children aged 12 and under, or students with a valid school ID. Skate rentals cost $3 (ID required as a deposit). Lockers are available for $0.50 ($5 deposit required).
Skating Lessons
Skating lessons are available for all ages through the Skate with U.S. program, designed by the U.S. Figure Skating Association. The classes offered include:
- Snowplow Sam and Mom/Dad & Me: Classes introduce children as young as three to skating while holding a parent’s hand.
- Children’s Classes: For children who do not need adult assistance, are comfortable on the ice, and are ready to learn to skate backward and glide on one foot.
- Adult Basic Group Lessons: Teens and adults can refine their skating skills through lessons organized by four levels of experience.
- Sculpturise and Ice Theater: For skaters inspired by the surrounding monuments and sculptures, the artistry performance class provides a wonderful creative outlet.
Additionally, hockey classes are available for both children and adults.
