Leap Into Summer at the Building Museum’s MOMENTUM PARK(OUR)
This July, the National Building Museum is reimagining movementâand the museum experience itself. From July 3 to July 20, the Great Hall and West Court transform into MOMENTUM PARK(OUR), a limited-time, hands-on exhibition that invites visitors to climb, leap, balance, and explore the very architecture around them.
In partnership with American Parkour and designed with insight from Parkour pioneer Mark Toorock, MOMENTUM PARK(OUR) spans over 7,000 square feet of immersive obstacle courses and interactive learning zones. Drawing inspiration from the pioneering work of landscape architect Lawrence Halprinâwho championed movement and play in public spacesâthe exhibit bridges the gap between sport, design, and urban life.
Four obstacle areas offer experiences tailored to every age group:
- Ages 2â5 can explore foam-based elements like balance beams and vault boxes in a soft, exploratory play zone.
- Ages 6â10 are treated to two courses: one for free play and another with a 3D Plexiglass maze, stepping stones, and low balance bars.
- Ages 11 and up, including adults and seasoned athletes, can test their agility on a challenging urban course with features like scaffolding monkey bars and a realistic loading dock.
More than just physical play, the installation features interactive science stations that explain the forces behind Parkourâmomentum, gravity, and kinetic energyâalongside immersive media displays that explore the global Parkour movement. Throughout the run, professional athletes will perform live demos and offer informal coaching, sharing insights into the athletic art of navigating built spaces with creativity and skill.
Parkour tickets are $5 in addition to standard Museum admission, and visitors are encouraged to wear rubber-soled athletic shoes. Whether you’re a seasoned freerunner or a curious first-timer, MOMENTUM PARK(OUR) offers a thrilling way to experience design in motionâand movement as art.
This is your chance to (literally) jump in.