THE PLAYGROUND

THE PLAYGROUND is a 14,000-square-foot summer installation at the National Building Museum that turns the museum's Great Hall into an imaginative landscape for exploration, creativity, and intergenerational play. Created in collaboration with New York–based design practice Snarkitecture and design collaborator Gluten, the monumental environment invites visitors of all ages to climb, build, and explore oversized interactive elements. The installation continues the museum's tradition of large-scale summer experiences that previously included THE BEACH and FUNHOUSE. Open from July 3 through August 30, 2026, THE PLAYGROUND offers both daytime and evening programming throughout its run, with a packed calendar of events for kids and adults.

When: Opens July 3 and runs through August 30, 2026.

Showtimes: The installation is open during regular museum hours; a full schedule of daytime and evening programming is offered all summer long. Specific times and event details are available on the museum's website.

Tickets: THE PLAYGROUND is a separately ticketed experience; ticket pricing is not listed. Complimentary admission is available for eligible military families through the museum's participation in a program supported by the NBA.

Design Team: Developed by Snarkitecture, a New York–based design practice, in collaboration with design partner Gluten.

Ages: Suitable for all ages; the installation is designed for intergenerational play and discovery.

Venue: National Building Museum, Great Hall, Washington, D.C.

Note: The installation transforms the iconic Great Hall into a 14,000-square-foot immersive environment featuring oversized elements for climbing, building, exploring, and creative engagement. A full calendar of special events runs all summer, including evening programs for adults. For the complete schedule and further details, visit the museum's website.