Entrance to the National Museum of Asian Art.
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National Museum of Asian Art Freer & Sackler

4.7
·2k reviews·Washington, United States

A serene Smithsonian escape showcasing diverse Asian art, including the opulent Peacock Room, with free admission.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds, enjoy quiet contemplation

CrowdLow
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Entrance to the National Museum of Asian Art.

National Museum of Asian Art Freer & Sackler

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Beat the crowds, enjoy quiet contemplation

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Smithsonian escape showcasing diverse Asian art, including the opulent Peacock Room, with free admission.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A true hidden gem in DC, offering a peaceful and fascinating journey through Asian art."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission!

Enjoy world-class Asian art without spending a dime. A true hidden gem in DC! :moneywithwings:

🚶‍♀️ Start Downstairs

Discover the most treasures by beginning your visit on the lower levels. Don't miss out! :arrow_down:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Peacock Room

The Peacock Room

Freer Gallery of Art

An opulent 19th-century masterpiece by James McNeill Whistler, adorned with intricate avian motifs and Chinese porcelain.

Tranquil Courtyard

Tranquil Courtyard

Between Freer and Sackler Galleries

A peaceful oasis perfect for a quiet break, featuring a central fountain and lush greenery away from the city bustle.

Chinese Jade Collection

Chinese Jade Collection

Sackler Gallery

Exquisite jade carvings showcasing centuries of craftsmanship and cultural significance from China.

Japanese Tea Practice Unwrapped

Japanese Tea Practice Unwrapped

Sackler Gallery

An insightful exhibition exploring the rituals and artistry of Japanese tea ceremonies.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Calm: A Peaceful Escape

Escape the National Mall crowds at the Freer and Sackler Galleries. This Smithsonian gem offers a serene atmosphere, making it perfect for a relaxed art immersion. Plan for at least 2 hours to fully appreciate the diverse collections and tranquil courtyard.

Unlock Hidden Treasures: Explore Downstairs First

Don't let the initial exhibits fool you! Some of the most captivating treasures are located downstairs. Start your visit on the lower levels to discover a wealth of art and artifacts before ascending to other galleries.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Beat the crowds, enjoy quiet contemplation
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, fewer visitors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

it’s acc free guys #museum #thingstodoinoc #irvine #oc #orangecounty #fyp #fypシ #art #artmuseum
@vvanessachoww
365.4K likes • 1.9M views

🎯 Free Admission!

Enjoy world-class Asian art without spending a dime. A true hidden gem in DC! :moneywithwings: TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Start Downstairs

Discover the most treasures by beginning your visit on the lower levels. Don't miss out! :arrow_down: Reddit

A must-visit-museum just around Metro Manila with NO ADMISSION FEE!!! #dateideas #museum #museumsoftiktok #metromanila #mustvisitplaces #arts
@galleryofhers
175.1K likes • 2.7M views
The Freer Gallery of Art and the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery together form the National Museum of Asian Art. The #1 thing to visit is the “Peacock Room,” designed by artist James McNeill Whistler. 🦚This extravagant room features an avian motif. It showcases a Chinese blue-and-white porcelain collection. I could spend hours here just quietly sitting on the bench and staring at all the artwork! 👉Check...
femalesolotrek
7 likes • 213 views

🌿 Relax in the Courtyard

Take a peaceful break in the beautiful indoor-outdoor garden. Perfect for recharging. :leafy_green: Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least 2 hours to explore both buildings and soak in the atmosphere. :clock1: Reddit

📍Freer Gallery of Art On a whim, we decided to stop into the Freer Gallery of Art which is part of the National Museum of Asian Art after visiting the Enid A. Haupt Garden. I had wanted to see The Peacock Room not knowing it was just steps away from where we were. 🦚 I loved a how intimate this gallery was along with its unique collection of art! We will definitely be visiting the other half of t...
dinkswithpoints
22 likes • 391 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission!

Enjoy world-class Asian art without spending a dime. A true hidden gem in DC! :moneywithwings: TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Start Downstairs

Discover the most treasures by beginning your visit on the lower levels. Don't miss out! :arrow_down: Reddit

🌿 Relax in the Courtyard

Take a peaceful break in the beautiful indoor-outdoor garden. Perfect for recharging. :leafy_green: Reddit

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least 2 hours to explore both buildings and soak in the atmosphere. :clock1: Reddit

🖼️ Admire the Peacock Room

A must-see opulent 19th-century masterpiece. Prepare to be amazed! :gem: Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Freer and Sackler Galleries as a peaceful, underrated gem on the National Mall, offering a serene escape with stunning collections. The Peacock Room and tranquil courtyard are frequently highlighted as must-see features, providing a deeply enjoyable and accessible cultural experience.

"The National Museum of Asian Art was not originally on my itinerary, but I am so glad that I ended up visiting. The museum is so extensive and the atmosphere is so calm.

Something truly special about this place is its Peacock Room from the late 1800s. The room is beautiful with all the accented blue walls and gold paintings; it was like being transported in time and it is truly amazing how well preserved the room is. Their recent exhibition was also very interesting, and they have a lot of wonderful objects from Asia.

There is also this relaxing outdoor, indoor garden space with a fountain in the center perfect for getting away from the National Mall crowds. It was so peaceful, and I enjoyed just sitting there and taking in the fresh air.

They have restrooms inside, as well as a really nice gift shop. The staff were friendly, and I really enjoyed visiting. I highly recommend stopping by!"

Jasmine

"This is a true hidden gem in DC. The exhibitions are fascinating, covering a wide range of cultures and histories in different parts of Asia, and it’s never too crowded, which makes the experience much more enjoyable.

The museum is spread across two beautiful buildings with plenty of space to sit down and take a break as you explore. The outdoor garden is peaceful and a wonderful place to walk around or just relax for a bit.

The staff were also very friendly and helpful, making the visit smooth and welcoming. Plan for at least 2 hours to really enjoy everything this museum has to offer."

Bo

"It's an absolutely outstanding place for a visit if you are in DC. After going there for the first time, my wife begged me (for not too long) to go there for the second time though we had a tight schedule for visiting other museums. Its exhibition is a bit misleading though. It starts with vibrant exhibits and, then, kind of gets more and more flat. It may seem to you that you've seen everything, but you, actually, need to go downstairs and, then, you dive in more and more treasures. Next time I go to the museum, I will definitely start from its lowest level and then will go up to the other exhibitions. Highly recommended."

Aleksei Kudriashov

What People Like

Peaceful atmosphere
Free admission
Peacock Room

What People Dislike

Can be overlooked

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Freer and Sackler Galleries are conveniently located on the National Mall in Washington D.C. You can reach them via the Metro (Smithsonian station on the Blue, Orange, and Silver lines) or by bus. Many visitors also walk from other National Mall attractions. Parking in the vicinity can be challenging and expensive, so public transport is highly recommended. TikTokReddit

While there are parking garages in the downtown D.C. area, they can be costly and fill up quickly, especially on weekends. It's generally advised to use public transportation or ride-sharing services to reach the museum. Reddit

Yes, both the Freer and Sackler Galleries are accessible. They offer elevators and ramps to assist visitors with mobility challenges. Restrooms are also available and accessible. Reddit

The museum is typically open daily from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, with extended hours on Thursdays until 8 PM. However, it's always best to check the official Smithsonian website for the most up-to-date hours, as they can vary seasonally or for special events. TikTok

Yes, the Freer and Sackler Galleries are part of the Smithsonian Institution and are connected to other museums on the National Mall. They are also connected to the National Museum of African Art, allowing for easy exploration of diverse art collections. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to the National Museum of Asian Art Freer & Sackler is completely free! This makes it an accessible and wonderful option for everyone visiting Washington D.C. TikTokReddit+1

Since admission is free, advance booking is not required. You can simply walk in during operating hours. TikTok

While general admission is free and doesn't require timed entry, some special exhibitions might have specific viewing times or require advance reservations. It's advisable to check the museum's official website for any current special exhibitions and their requirements. Instagram

The Freer Gallery has a main entrance, and the Sackler Gallery is also accessible. The Freer Plaza offers a more modern entrance experience. Check the museum's website for the most current entry points. Instagram

Yes, the museum typically offers a coat check and a place to store larger bags. It's a good idea to check their website for specific policies on bag sizes and items allowed. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Peacock Room in the Freer Gallery is a showstopper. Other highlights include the extensive Chinese Jade collection, Japanese tea ceremony artifacts, and ancient Syrian glass. Don't miss the peaceful courtyard for a moment of reflection. InstagramReddit

Most visitors find that 90 minutes to 2 hours is sufficient to see the main highlights of both the Freer and Sackler Galleries. However, art enthusiasts might want to spend longer. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed in the galleries for personal use, but flash photography is prohibited to protect the artifacts. Some special exhibitions may have photography restrictions, so always look for signage. TikTok

The museum often offers guided tours led by docents. Check the museum's schedule upon arrival or on their website for tour times and topics. Reddit

The atmosphere is known for being calm, peaceful, and serene, offering a welcome respite from the busier National Mall attractions. It's a great place for quiet contemplation. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there isn't a full-service restaurant within the Freer and Sackler Galleries themselves, there is a cafe that offers light snacks, coffee, and beverages. For more substantial meals, you'll find numerous options on the National Mall or in nearby areas. Reddit

Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside the galleries to protect the artwork. However, you can usually consume them in designated areas or outside the museum. Reddit

The cafe typically offers grab-and-go items like sandwiches, salads, pastries, and coffee. It's a convenient spot for a quick bite or refreshment during your visit. Reddit

Yes, the National Mall area and the surrounding neighborhoods of Penn Quarter and Southwest Waterfront offer a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Reddit

The National Mall itself is a great place for picnics. You can find benches and open spaces to enjoy your meal outdoors before or after your museum visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, personal photography is generally permitted inside the Freer and Sackler Galleries. However, flash photography is strictly prohibited to protect the delicate artworks from damage. TikTok

Some special exhibitions may have specific photography restrictions. Always look for signage in the galleries that indicates whether photography is allowed or prohibited. Instagram

The Peacock Room is incredibly photogenic, as is the tranquil courtyard. Many of the artifacts themselves, like the intricate jade carvings and pottery, make for stunning shots. TikTokInstagram

Tripods and selfie sticks are generally not allowed inside the galleries to avoid obstructing other visitors and to prevent accidental damage to artworks. It's best to rely on handheld shots. TikTok

The exterior of the Freer and Sackler Galleries, especially the Freer Plaza and the surrounding National Mall, offers excellent photo opportunities with iconic D.C. landmarks in the background. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Freer and Sackler Galleries can be a surprisingly engaging experience for families, offering a calmer alternative to some of the more overwhelming museums. The free admission is a huge plus for budget-conscious families. While the exhibits might require some explanation, the Peacock Room is often a hit with children due to its dazzling colors and animal motifs. TikTokInstagram

Encourage kids to look for specific animals or patterns in the art. The courtyard is also a great spot for children to stretch their legs and enjoy some fresh air in a safe environment. Consider focusing on a few key exhibits that might capture their imagination, like the ancient pottery or colorful textiles, rather than trying to see everything. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget travelers in D.C., the National Museum of Asian Art Freer & Sackler is an absolute must-visit. Admission is completely free, making it one of the best free attractions in the city. TikTokReddit+1

Combine your visit with other free Smithsonian museums on the National Mall to maximize your savings. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the nearby park areas, as dining options on the Mall can be pricey. The museum's serene atmosphere also offers a valuable experience without any cost. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & History Buffs

Art lovers and history buffs will find the Freer and Sackler Galleries a treasure trove. The Peacock Room is a historical and artistic marvel, offering a glimpse into late 19th-century design. The extensive collections of Asian art, spanning various dynasties and cultures, provide deep insights into historical traditions and craftsmanship. InstagramReddit

Don't overlook the American art collection in the Freer Gallery, which includes significant works by Whistler and Sargent. The museum's commitment to authenticity and scholarly presentation ensures a rich and informative experience for those with a keen interest in art history. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of the Peacock Room

The Peacock Room is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the Freer Gallery of Art. Designed by artist James McNeill Whistler, this opulent dining room is a breathtaking display of late 19th-century aestheticism. Its walls are adorned with intricate patterns, gilded details, and a striking avian motif, featuring peacocks in various poses. The room also showcases Whistler's collection of Chinese blue-and-white porcelain, which inspired much of its design. Visitors often describe the experience of entering the Peacock Room as stepping back in time, marveling at its preservation and sheer extravagance. Instagram+2

This room is more than just a decorative space; it's a testament to Whistler's artistic vision and his complex relationship with his patron, Frederick R. Leyland. The story behind its creation is as fascinating as its visual splendor. It's a space that invites quiet contemplation and appreciation for the artistry involved in every detail, from the painted ceiling to the carved wooden panels. Instagram

Many visitors are captivated by the room's unique atmosphere and the way it transports them to another era. It’s a highly Instagrammable spot, but its true value lies in the immersive experience it offers, allowing you to appreciate the fusion of Western and Eastern artistic influences. TikTokInstagram

A Journey Through Asian Art and Beyond

The National Museum of Asian Art Freer & Sackler houses an impressive collection that spans millennia and vast geographical regions. While its focus is on Asian art, the museum also features artifacts from other cultures, including Classical Greece and Medieval Europe, offering a broader perspective on global artistic exchange. Reddit

The collections are thoughtfully displayed across two distinct buildings, the Freer Gallery of Art and the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery. The Freer Gallery, established by Detroit industrialist Charles Lang Freer, holds a significant collection of American art, including works by Whistler and John Singer Sargent, alongside its renowned Asian holdings. The Sackler Gallery, established later, complements this with a diverse range of Asian art, from ancient bronzes to contemporary works. Instagram+1

Visitors consistently praise the museum for its diverse exhibitions, which cover everything from Chinese paintings and Japanese tea practices to Syrian glass and ancient pottery. The emphasis on authenticity and legal acquisition of artifacts is also noted and appreciated by patrons. Reddit The layout encourages exploration, with many suggesting starting on the lower levels to uncover hidden gems. Reddit

Finding Serenity on the National Mall

In the heart of the bustling National Mall, the Freer and Sackler Galleries offer a rare sanctuary of peace and quiet. Unlike some of the more crowded Smithsonian institutions, these museums are often described as being 'criminally underrated' and provide a much-needed escape from the urban hustle. Reddit

The courtyard serves as a central hub, connecting the two galleries and providing a tranquil space for visitors to relax. With a fountain at its center and lush greenery, it’s an ideal spot to sit, reflect, and enjoy a moment of calm amidst your sightseeing. Many visitors find this area particularly refreshing, especially on a warm day or after a long walk. InstagramReddit

This serene atmosphere extends throughout the galleries, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more contemplative museum experience. The spacious layouts and thoughtful curation contribute to the overall sense of peace, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the art without feeling overwhelmed. Reddit+1

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