National Museum of Women in the Arts - gray concrete building during daytime
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National Museum of Women in the Arts

4.7
·2k reviews·Washington, United States

The world's first museum dedicated to women artists, showcasing a powerful and diverse collection that celebrates female creativity.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

First Sunday & Second Wednesday

Free admission days!

CrowdMedium
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National Museum of Women in the Arts - gray concrete building during daytime

National Museum of Women in the Arts

Best Time

First Sunday & Second Wednesday

Free admission days!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The world's first museum dedicated to women artists, showcasing a powerful and diverse collection that celebrates female creativity.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A must-visit for its inspiring and thought-provoking space highlighting women's contributions to art."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photo Booth Fun

Capture a fun souvenir at the museum's photo booth!

🎁 Unique Souvenirs

Explore the well-curated shop for jewelry, scarves, and books by women artists.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Great Hall

The Great Hall

Main Entrance

A stunning, architecturally impressive space that sets the tone for the museum's dedication to women's artistic achievements.

Frida Kahlo's 'The Two Fridas'

Frida Kahlo's 'The Two Fridas'

Collection Galleries

Home to the only Frida Kahlo painting in Washington, D.C., this iconic piece is a must-see for art enthusiasts.

Mini Print Vending Machine

Mini Print Vending Machine

Museum Shop

Score a unique, affordable souvenir with $1 art prints by female artist Anastasia Inciardi. A delightful surprise for any visitor.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Special Events

While general admission is often available on-site, special evening events like 'After Hours' require advance ticket purchase. These popular events can sell out quickly, so check the NMWA website for dates and booking information to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Embrace Free Admission Days

The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) offers free admission on the first Sunday and second Wednesday of each month. Planning your visit around these days can significantly reduce costs, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious travelers. Instagram

Best Times

When
First Sunday & Second Wednesday
Why
Free admission days!
Crowd
Medium
When
Tuesday mornings
Why
Easier to buy tickets on-site.
Crowd
Low
When
Evening events
Why
Unique themed experiences.
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

(It’s us, we’re the museum.) #washingtondc #thingstodoindc things to do in dc, dmv area, art, women artists
@womeninthearts
293.1K likes • 1.2M views

📸 Photo Booth Fun

Capture a fun souvenir at the museum's photo booth! TikTokInstagram

🎁 Unique Souvenirs

Explore the well-curated shop for jewelry, scarves, and books by women artists. Reddit

Things to do in dc | We gon ignore that middle pic but I loooove a photo booth moment #nmwa #dcmuseum #thingstodoindc #dctiktok national museum for women in the arts #dccontentcreator
@kacyynicole
61.1K likes • 454.7K views
Tomorrow is the day! ✨ The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) reopens on Oct. 21 after a two-year renovation. Experience the world’s first museum solely dedicated to championing women through the arts with new exhibition spaces, enlarged public programming areas, enhanced amenities and increased accessibility. 🎨 @womeninthearts 📍1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005 ⏰ Open Tues...
visitwashingtondc
2K likes • 63K views

🖼️ Affordable Art Prints

Grab a $1 art print from the vending machine – a unique keepsake! TikTokReddit

🧘‍♀️ Wellness Programs

Check for unique wellness events like yoga or sound baths. TikTok

5 reasons you should add the National Museum of Women in the Arts to your 2025 to-do list: 1. Our gorgeous Great Hall is meant to be seen in person.  2. We have the only Frida Kahlo painting in Washington, DC.   3. We have a mini print vending machine and a photo booth in our Museum Shop.   4. Our exhibitions change every few months, so there is always something new to see.  5. You can party with...
womeninthearts
1.8K likes • 27.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photo Booth Fun

Capture a fun souvenir at the museum's photo booth! TikTokInstagram

🎁 Unique Souvenirs

Explore the well-curated shop for jewelry, scarves, and books by women artists. Reddit

🖼️ Affordable Art Prints

Grab a $1 art print from the vending machine – a unique keepsake! TikTokReddit

🧘‍♀️ Wellness Programs

Check for unique wellness events like yoga or sound baths. TikTok

🎟️ Book Special Events

Tickets for 'After Hours' events sell out fast, book early! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the National Museum of Women in the Arts for its vital mission and inspiring collections, highlighting the unique perspective offered by exclusively featuring women artists. The renovated building is beautiful, and the temporary exhibitions are consistently well-curated and thought-provoking. While some find the admission price a bit high, the value is often seen in the meaningful experience and the opportunity to support a crucial cause.

"As someone who champions women artists, the National Museum of Women in the Arts felt like somewhere I had to visit. It's such a special place solely dedicated to women artists, who are often underrepresented or misrepresented within arts institutions. What a breath of fresh air to recognize that I was standing in a room of work created from and by the female gaze.

The museum staff were so welcoming, and the place is so neat and well-kept. I thoroughly enjoyed the exhibits that were on view, particularly Guerrilla Girls: Making Trouble and Niki de Saint Phalle In Print. I felt so inspired, and their exhibitions are so well thought out and interesting. I also really liked their ongoing exhibitions with works from women artists I didn't know about.

Overall, if you support the cause or want to see some really thought provoking exhibits, I highly recommend visiting this museum. I went on a Tuesday morning, and it was easy to purchase tickets on site. There is also a really neat gift shop with a lot of amazing books, as well as a Photo Booth which I used as a nice souvenir."

Jasmine

"The National Museum of Women in the Arts is a must-visit—an inspiring and thought-provoking space that beautifully highlights the contributions of women in the art world. I came expecting to enjoy the exhibits, but I left with a renewed appreciation and a deeper perspective on both art and gender representation.

The collection is diverse, powerful, and beautifully curated, featuring everything from classical masterpieces to bold contemporary works. Each piece tells a story that challenges traditional narratives and celebrates the voices of women across time and cultures.

The museum is elegant, peaceful, and welcoming, with kind staff and a layout that invites quiet reflection. It’s also a perfect place to take a friend, especially someone interested in gender studies or women’s studies—the museum offers so much to think about and discuss.

Whether you’re an art lover, a student of culture, or just looking for a meaningful experience in D.C., this museum is both enriching and unforgettable."

Mike Wong

"I always love going to this museum. The collection is interesting and rich and the temporary exhibitions are always great. The renovated building is beautiful. Don’t miss this one if you are a museum and art lover."

holly garner

What People Like

Inspiring mission
Thought-provoking exhibits
Unique collection

What People Dislike

Admission price

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) is conveniently located in downtown Washington, D.C. It's easily accessible via public transportation. The closest Metro stations are Metro Center (Red, Blue, Orange, Silver lines) and McPherson Square (Blue, Orange, Silver lines), both a short walk away. Many bus routes also serve the area. Parking can be challenging and expensive in this busy part of the city, so public transit is often recommended. TikTok+1

While there are parking garages in the vicinity, they can be costly and fill up quickly, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to check parking apps for availability and rates in advance or consider using rideshare services. TikTok

Yes, the National Museum of Women in the Arts has undergone renovations to enhance accessibility. The museum is designed to be welcoming and navigable for visitors with disabilities, with elevators and accessible restrooms. Instagram

The museum's hours can vary, and it's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. They are typically open Tuesday through Sunday, with some evenings offering special programming. Instagram

Absolutely! The museum is a fantastic destination for a day trip in Washington, D.C. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the collections and exhibitions, and its central location makes it easy to combine with other nearby attractions. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission is typically $25, with discounted rates for students, seniors, and D.C. residents ($22). Members enjoy free admission ($20). However, the museum offers free admission on the first Sunday and second Wednesday of each month, making it a great budget-friendly option. Instagram+1

For general admission, purchasing tickets on-site is usually possible, especially on a Tuesday morning. However, for special evening events like 'After Hours,' advance booking is highly recommended as these events are popular and can sell out. InstagramReddit

Yes, the National Museum of Women in the Arts provides free admission on the first Sunday and the second Wednesday of every month. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience the museum's collections without charge. Instagram

While specific re-entry policies can vary, it's generally advisable to check with the museum staff upon arrival if you anticipate needing to leave and return. Most museums allow re-entry on the same day with a valid ticket stub.

The museum often provides guided tours or self-guided tour options. Check their website or inquire at the information desk upon arrival for schedules and availability. These tours can offer deeper insights into the artworks and artists. Reddit

🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience

Don't miss Frida Kahlo's 'The Two Fridas,' the only Kahlo painting in D.C. Instagram The museum also boasts a diverse collection featuring works by artists like Mary Cassatt and Alma Thomas. Explore temporary exhibitions for fresh perspectives. InstagramReddit

Beyond the galleries, enjoy the photo booth for a fun souvenir,TikTokInstagram browse the unique items in the museum shop,Reddit or discover the $1 art print vending machine.TikTokReddit They also host wellness programs like yoga and sound baths. TikTok

Yes, the museum shop is highly praised for its well-curated selection of items, including jewelry, silk scarves, and coffee table books that reflect the vast range of women artists. It's a great place to find unique gifts. Reddit

The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions that change every few months, ensuring there's always something new to see. They also offer themed evening events like 'After Hours' with different themes. Instagram+2

Photography policies can vary by exhibition. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in the permanent collection galleries for personal use. However, it's always best to check for specific restrictions, especially in temporary exhibition spaces. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum does not currently have a full-service cafe or restaurant on-site. Visitors are encouraged to explore the many dining options available in the surrounding downtown D.C. area, which offers a wide variety of cuisines and price points.

Typically, museums have policies against bringing outside food and beverages into the galleries to protect the artworks. It's best to consume any food or drinks in designated areas outside the exhibition spaces or before entering the museum.

Yes, the museum is located in a vibrant downtown area with numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries within walking distance. You can find everything from quick bites to more formal dining experiences to suit your preferences. TikTok+1

📸 📸 Photography

The Great Hall is a stunning architectural space perfect for photos. Many visitors also enjoy capturing moments at the museum's photo booth. TikTokInstagram Remember to check photography guidelines for specific exhibits. TikTok

Non-flash photography is generally allowed in the permanent collection galleries for personal use. However, some temporary exhibitions may have stricter policies, so always look for signage or ask museum staff. TikTok

Absolutely! The photo booth offers a fun and memorable way to capture your visit. TikTokInstagram Additionally, the $1 art print vending machine provides a unique item to photograph and take home. TikTokReddit

Visiting during off-peak hours, like weekday mornings, can offer fewer crowds, making it easier to get unobstructed shots of the art and architecture. Reddit

Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not permitted inside the museum to ensure the safety of the artworks and the comfort of other visitors. Always check the museum's specific policies regarding photography equipment. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National Museum of Women in the Arts can be a wonderful outing for families. While it's a museum focused on art, its engaging exhibitions and the unique photo booth offer interactive elements that can capture children's attention. TikTokInstagram Consider planning your visit during less crowded times, like weekday mornings, to allow children more space to explore comfortably. Reddit

Look out for any family-specific programming or educational materials the museum might offer. The museum shop, with its unique items, can also be a point of interest. Remember to check the museum's website for any specific guidelines or recommendations for visiting with children.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the National Museum of Women in the Arts is an excellent choice. The museum offers free admission on the first Sunday and second Wednesday of each month, making it a prime opportunity to experience world-class art without spending a dime. Instagram

Beyond free days, consider visiting on a Tuesday morning when crowds are typically lower, and on-site ticket purchases are usually straightforward. Reddit Even with paid admission, the experience is considered highly valuable, and the unique $1 art print vending machine offers an incredibly affordable souvenir option. TikTokReddit

couples

The National Museum of Women in the Arts provides a sophisticated and inspiring setting for couples. Explore the diverse collections together, sparking conversations about art, history, and gender representation. Reddit Consider attending one of the museum's 'After Hours' events for a unique, themed evening experience, perfect for a date night. Instagram

After your visit, you can find numerous dining options in the surrounding downtown D.C. area to continue your evening. The museum's elegant ambiance and thought-provoking exhibits make for a memorable and enriching shared experience.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Haven for Women Artists

The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) stands as a pioneering institution, being the first museum in the United States dedicated solely to championing women through the arts. Founded in 1981, it houses a vast collection of over 3,000 artworks spanning centuries and diverse artistic mediums. This museum provides a crucial platform for artists who have historically been underrepresented or overlooked in traditional art historical narratives. TikTokReddit

The museum's commitment extends beyond its permanent collection. It actively curates thought-provoking temporary exhibitions that highlight both established and emerging female artists, offering fresh perspectives and engaging dialogues. Visitors often express feeling inspired and gaining a deeper appreciation for the 'female gaze' and the unique contributions women have made to the art world. InstagramReddit

Whether you're an art aficionado or simply curious, NMWA offers a rich and rewarding experience. It's a place to discover new artists, revisit familiar masters, and celebrate the enduring power of creativity from women across the globe. Reddit

Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Fellow Travelers

Planning your visit to the National Museum of Women in the Arts can be enhanced by insights from those who have already explored its halls. Many visitors recommend checking the museum's website for the latest exhibition schedules and any special events, such as the popular 'After Hours' evenings which often have unique themes and require advance booking. Instagram+1

For those looking to save on admission, taking advantage of the free entry days on the first Sunday and second Wednesday of the month is a smart move. Instagram If you're visiting on a regular day, a Tuesday morning visit is often cited as a good time to avoid larger crowds and potentially purchase tickets on-site with ease. Reddit

Don't forget to explore the museum shop, which is a highlight for many, offering unique items from jewelry to books. Reddit And for a fun, affordable souvenir, seek out the $1 art print vending machine – a delightful discovery for many visitors! TikTokReddit

Beyond the Galleries: Unique Experiences at NMWA

The National Museum of Women in the Arts offers more than just traditional art viewing. It's a space that embraces diverse forms of engagement. For instance, the museum has hosted wellness programming, including yoga and sound bath sessions, providing a unique way to connect with art and oneself in a serene environment. TikTok

For a touch of playful interaction, visitors can utilize the museum's photo booth, creating fun memories of their visit. TikTokInstagram This adds a personal and lighthearted element to the museum experience. Furthermore, the museum shop is renowned for its curated selection, but a true hidden gem is the art print vending machine, offering affordable $1 prints by artist Anastasia Inciardi, making a unique keepsake accessible to all. TikTokReddit

These unique offerings transform a museum visit into a multi-faceted experience, catering to different interests and adding memorable touches beyond the artworks themselves.

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