The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) in Washington, D.C. is providing free admission to furloughed federal government employees during the current government shutdown. The museum, located at 1250 New York Avenue, NW, remains fully operational with all collections and exhibitions accessible to the public despite the federal closure.
In a statement expressing solidarity with affected federal workers, NMWA officials announced that the free admission policy will remain in effect for the entire duration of the shutdown. The gesture recognizes the financial challenges many federal employees face while being furloughed from their positions during this uncertain period.
Visitors can currently explore several major exhibitions at the museum. "Women Artists from Antwerp to Amsterdam, 1600-1750" runs from September 26, 2025, through January 11, 2026, showcasing the work of female artists from the Dutch Golden Age. "Tawny Chatmon: Sanctuaries of Truth, Dissolution of Lies" will be on display from October 15, 2025, to March 8, 2026, while "Ruth Orkin: Women on the Move" is scheduled from December 12, 2025, to March 29, 2026.
Additional exhibitions include "Niki de Saint Phalle In Print," which continues through November 30, 2025, and the ongoing "Remix: The Collection" showcase. These exhibitions represent the museum's commitment to highlighting the contributions of women artists across different time periods and artistic movements.
The National Museum of Women in the Arts holds the distinction of being the world's first museum exclusively dedicated to championing women through the arts. Through its comprehensive collections, rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and digital content, the institution fosters dynamic discussions about art and creative expression while advocating for better representation of women and nonbinary artists in the art world.
The museum's permanent collection features works by renowned artists including Rosa Bonheur, Louise Bourgeois, Lalla Essaydi, Lavinia Fontana, Frida Kahlo, Hung Liu, Zanele Muholi, Faith Ringgold, Niki de Saint Phalle, and Amy Sherald. These works span various mediums and represent diverse artistic styles and cultural perspectives from around the globe.
NMWA operates Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., remaining closed on Mondays and select holidays. Regular admission prices are $16 for adults and $13 for D.C. residents, visitors 65 and older, students, educators, active-duty military personnel, veterans, and visitors with Native or Tribal affiliation. Free admission is already provided to visitors 21 and under, visitors with disabilities, and SNAP/EBT cardholders. The museum also offers free admission to all visitors on the first Sunday and second Wednesday of each month.
