Freer Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of the nation's capital, the Freer Gallery of Art is a premier destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Asian art and American aestheticism. As one of the two Smithsonian museums on the National Mall dedicated to Asian art, the Freer offers visitors a tranquil and enlightening experience amidst the bustling energy of Washington D.C.
The gallery, which opened to the public in 1923, is the legacy of Charles Lang Freer, a Detroit industrialist and art collector who bequeathed his extensive collection to the nation. The museum's holdings include over 25,000 objects spanning 6,000 years of history, including Chinese paintings, Indian sculpture, Islamic decorative arts, and Whistler's Peacock Room, an opulent 19th-century dining room considered a masterpiece of interior decorative art.
The Freer Gallery's architecture itself is a work of art, designed in a classical style with an Italian Renaissance influence. The museum's serene courtyard and harmonious interior spaces provide a contemplative environment that enhances the experience of the art on display.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Freer Gallery of Art hosts special exhibitions, cultural events, and educational programs that offer deeper insights into the artistic traditions of Asia and the Middle East. It is also a research hub for scholars studying Asian art and culture.
Freer Gallery of Art – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: National Museum of Natural History, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, National Mall, National Museum of African Art.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Freer Gallery of Art open?
- Monday 10 am - 5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am - 5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am - 5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am - 5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am - 5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am - 5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am - 5:30 pm
Which popular attractions are close to Freer Gallery of Art?
How to get to Freer Gallery of Art by public transport?
Metro
- Smithsonian • Lines: Bl, Or, Sv (3 min walk)
- L'Enfant Plaza • Lines: Bl, Gr, Or, Sv, Yl (10 min walk)
Train
- L'Enfant (10 min walk)
- Rayburn (24 min walk)
Bus
- 4th St & N St SW • Lines: 74 (28 min walk)
- 19th St & F St Northwest (28 min walk)