Storytime Studio at the Hirshhorn Museum

Storytime Studio at the Hirshhorn Museum

The Hirshhorn does something really clever with their Wednesday morning Storytime Studio. They pair a picture book reading with an art exploration activity inspired by the museum's current exhibitions. So your toddler hears a story, then gets to create something or explore a gallery connected to the theme. It is a genuinely creative program that introduces young kids to contemporary art in a way that feels playful, not stuffy. The Hirshhorn's circular building and sculpture garden are fascinating for kids who like shapes and textures, and the whole museum is compact enough that you can see everything in about an hour. Perfect for a weekday morning adventure.

Parent Tips 💡

• ✓This program fills up but rarely turns people away. Arrive by 9:50am to get settled and grab a good spot on the floor.
• ✓The Sculpture Garden is a great warm-up before story time. Let your kids run around the outdoor sculptures while you wait.
• ✓Do not skip the art activity. It is surprisingly well done and your kids will love making something inspired by a real artist.
• ✓The museum is small and manageable. You can see everything in about an hour, which is ideal for young attention spans.
• ✓Pair this with a stroll along the Mall. The carousel is nearby, and you are steps from the Natural History Museum if you want to extend the outing.