The Awakening Sculpture Reviews

Lots of food areas ,nice stores to shop at,huge area for outdoor TV watching games,..
Ferris Wheel another surprise a beautiful view of the water and vicinity.

He looks like he fell from heaven!!!!!!!!! A must see!!!!! the detail of his beard, feet and hands are incredible!!!!

It was just strange to see a sculpture of a giant man emerging from the sand. The details on the face, hands and feet are very good and everything was proportional. It's just a stop along the sidewalk or on the way to the capital wheel.

Although I went up there to MGM Harbor to gamble but I had a wonderful experience on the taxi boat and the fairy Ferris run awesome down there I was able to go to Fisherman's Wharf I was able to go to Alexandria walking around do some shopping love love love it

I love this sculpture! I walked down to the marina and initially saw an arm reaching up from the ground. It was dramatic! Then as I got closer the entire sculpture came into view. I must've taken about 20 photos of it. BEAUTIFUL!

I love that the sculpture is touchable and accessible. It's a fun twist on the standard upright man.

The sculpture is in the Harborfront area, a short walk from the village and the hotels. It is a beautiful and thought provoking sculpture in a sandy area. It's great for kids to play around. It's located on the waterfront and near the paved walking trail.

This sculpture is eye catching and the atmosphere around it is lively and jovial. Nice photos to be had if you go at less busy times.

We got a great view from the Ferris wheel at the harbor. Had seen pictures of it when it was located elsewhere so was pleasantly surprised to see if at the harbor.

Didn't know this existed until we walk up on it. Very cool sculpture. It looks like the kids were enjoying playing in the sand and climbing on the various parts. on the other side on the sculpture is an enormous screen. We got a change to watch on of the hockey playoff games while snacking on some treats

This statue is fun and unusual; however not unique as there are others in Illinois and Missouri. Unfortunately after decades the statue was moved from the beautiful Haines Point to a shopping center! As a local, I refuse to pay for parking in a place where I'm spending more money to eat, drink or shop so I do not visit the National Harbor any longer. Most of the restaurants and shops are chains, which you can find elsewhere without parking fees or online.

Kid enjoyed running around and playing in this area. Nice that they move it from Haines Park to the harbor. Nice to just sit there and enjoy the art work and let the kids blow stem.

This is an interesting sculpture. One guard told me it was helicoptered in. When I was there, family with young children used this space to let them spent their energy while mom and dad watched a baseball game on the giant screen above.

My girls enjoyed playing in the sand and climbing all over him. Truly a very original idea. Located right near the wheel and the sculpture garden.

I happened to wander across this sculpture while I was in town for a conference and exploring the National Harbor area on a break. Even in the evening there were people there taking pictures - it certainly is unique! You could stay and admire the harbor from here, there are plenty of places to sit, but it doesn't take long to see the artwork.

I love the new location of the awakening sculpture. Its located in front of the harbor. Great for taking pictures.

We took a stroll on the boardwalk and came across the beautiful Sculpture of the long arm and and short hand coming out of the sand.

Awesome sculpture! Must be really cool from above. Seeing a "man" that's either been buried or is fighting his way out is a great surprise when coming around the corner

I really like this thing. It's a pretty area at sunset with the Ferris wheel and the giant breaking forth from the sand. There are several unusual sculptures in the area, including a naked fat man on a turtle.

Its a sand based playground with lots of sculptures for them to run, climb and jump on. Very cool and the kids had a lot of fun! Only downside was that somehow their feet were extremely dirty from climbing on the statues-but it was worth it that had a blast.

My daughter is an artist and really enjoyed this piece. Plus the location of where it is makes it even better. The National Harbor really is a charming small area with nice restaurants and shopping. She loved her day there

Fun to look at. But gawkers spend too much time there taking their precious selfies. How hard is it to soak something in, take a quick photo & move on?

Go early, before 10 am, but beware of the constipated parking warden : we got fined 25USD because the meter was empty for 3 minutes.

Unique sculpture rising out of the sand. Good place for kids to burn some energy too! Sandy covered waterfront area with seating area.

This is a beautiful sculpture that many people across the globe come to see and take pictures. We took our share of pictures too.

While at the MGM on business, we went over to a nice restaurant that actually overlooks the harbor. Afterward, we went for a quick walk around the area and I got a little history lesson the statue and it was breathtaking. Being able to walk right up to it and trying to imagine what it must have been like trying to make it... inspiring.

Nice spot for the kids to hang out while we walked around. Cool sculpture in the sand. Big rocks to sit on and watch the water.

We traveled in March and it was a very cold weekend, but we had to see the sculpture. It is a tradition every time we visit the harbor.

Great piece of art. Fits into the area perfectly and is very unique. Makes for some great and interesting pictures.One of the better and more enjoyable statues I've seen. Definitely must be seen if you are in the national harbor area.

Interesting sculpture, best photo op is in the morning before kids come to crawl and play on it. Very unique

This sculpture initially caught me off guard, but once I saw the whole thing and looked up the meaning k was mesmerized!! Beautiful!

A must see at least once. A great place for kids to play and for parents and couples to take pictures

The "Awakening" sculpture is an interesting, iconic amusement that's fun to look at if you're at National Harbor. Not enough of an attraction to deserve a separate trip to the area.

My grandchildern had a great time climbing all over the various parts of this stature. It was certainly unexpected. Between the sand and the climbing opportunities, we had a hard time getting them to leave. They are 2 1/2 years old and even this morning they asked if they could go back to the sand to climb.

The awakening sculpture is a great landmark attraction on National Harbor especially for kids and/or families looking to take photos.

As art goes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I suppose I didn't look long enough as it was interesting but not something I would consider a destination viewing.

Weird, yet fascinating. Great place for kids to play, they were climbing all over it. Nice place to pose for a picture.

the "beach area" was closed when I was here, but you could still view the sculpture and it was very unique and fun to photograph.

Made by Seward and a children friendly play area with white sand on it with a very interesting story about this sculpture but you have to find out by yourself. Highly recommended for everyone.

I was blown away when I see this sculpture for the first time. To say I was impressed was an understatement. I particularly like the fact it's in the beach, meaning visitors can interact with it.

Well, here it is, just some sculptured body parts sticking up out f the ground. It used to be, for many years, in West Potomac Park, where it had surprise value (and may have helped to cause a few traffic accidents.) Now you know it's there and you just wander over and look at it. Or, if you're a kid, climb on it. Or stand around and watch and listen to other people's reactions.

The Awakening Sculpture is hard to miss if you are visiting the National Harbor / Marina. The kids just love it - the little children were climbing all over it and parents and grandparents were snapping pictures left and right. It's a fun destination.

Plenty of kids playing in the sand having great fun climbing on the statue. Well worth a visit if passing

What an amazing, enormous, 70-feet across, sculpture! The Awakening is a sculpture of a giant emerging from the ground and is a must see when you visit the National Harbor. The sculpture is made up of 5 separate aluminum pieces buried in the sand who is trying to get up to start his day. The area overlooks the Potomac River and and is near the Capitol Ferris Wheel. The Awakening was moved from its home of 27-years at Hains Point to the National Harbor. It may be difficult to take a photo without children in the picture because it seems to be a popular place for children to get rid of their excess energy by climbing and playing on the sculpture. Don’t let this deter you from seeing it.

This was a pretty cool thing to see. My husband and I went back to it a couple times during our stay.

Our elementary age kids had fun running around the sand around the sculpture. Nice addition to the area.

Ver cool sculpture in a sandy beach set up
Not accessible to water but on the harbor
Kids of all ages ( adults too) love it
Don't miss this one

I remember when this was over by the park in the heart of DC. I enjoy bringing my son, the way my father used to bring me!

Near the water and Ferris Wheel is this very large and interesting sculpture of Zeus buried in the sand. Great area for the kids to climb and play with plenty of seating for parents to observe from. Short walk to shops and restaurants as well.

The kids love playing in the sand and climbing on the hands and feet, taking pictures. Overlooking the Potomac River.

Worth visiting for not only the statue, which the children REALLY enjoy, but also the serene surroundings, close proximity to the water and boat rides AND the big wheel. A tame ride.

Very strange piece(s). Children enjoyed climbing on and over the body parts. I heard it was relocated here from somewhere else.

This was a decent 5 minute stop. Not a whole lot to do here. Children running a climbing around. The artwork is neat, but the beach is small.

Love the views here.. gorgeous. And you can see the Ferris wheel. Our toddler enjoyed running around here after being cooped up in the stroller

We visited the Awakening Sculpture in its previous location at Haines Point and continued to visit it after it was moved to National Harbor. It is an impressive sculpture that catches the imagination. My daughters loved climbing it when they were younger and now still care enough to visit it whenever we can. It is fun to spend some time on the beach where it is currently located. Great for some photo ops. A must do if you visit National Harbor.

The Awakening is an amazing statue. It is great to come see and take photographs. I love coming to see the statue.

So the art work is incredible and there seems to be a lot of lifelike artwork in National Harbor. It's cool to see and a conversation starter but not sure I would just go there to see it. You truly can't miss it if you are staying at the Harbor.

A huge sculpture of a drowning (?) man. The area is covered in sand and is close to the water, so it gives it a beach feel. Kids can play in the sand and climb the sculpture. There are stores and restaurants that surround this area. It is clean and safe. Fun family-friendly area.

This sculpture is made out of multiple pieces that make up a man who “awakening” out of the sand. Most notably is the arm sticking high up. It is an interesting piece of art which also seems to be very popular with the kids for climbing on. From the little beach on which the statue is you also have nice views of the piers surrounding national harbor.

The Awakening sculpture is interesting for the adults and a great play space for the kids. Great view and located between all of the hotels and restaurants. Perfect for letting the kids run around after dinner.

This sculpture is wonderful! It’s conveniently set in a small beach at the center of National Harbor and welcomes all ages. Especially beautiful at sunrise and in the evenings.

You need to back up and look at the entire sculpture before taking time to get a closer look at each of the components. Very clever and creative. A fifteen minute event but don’t miss it!

This is a beautiful sculpture for kids to play on and there is sand too!!! Beautiftul to see from the ferris wheel also.

The sculpture is in a really cool area of the Harborfront. It's really a neat sculpture. There is a nice sitting area right above where the sculpture is so it's really a nice place to sit and relax.

The sculpture was amazing. Awesome piece of art. Great for photo spot. Kids were having a blast climbing on it.

Good place for the children to play in the sand. There are lots of good places to eat and drink and a good nightlife.

We have the Awakening sculpture at the Grounds for Sculpture in New Jersey but it is tucked away in a meadow where few get to see it. Here it is accessible and the kids love to play on it with all the body parts coming out of the sand.I like when art is accessible and can bring a smile to children and adults.

One of the nice things about National Harbor is something for everyone. No children but nice to sit at pier and watch the kids climbing all over this like a giant sandbox.

This is a 70 some-odd foot sculpture of a giant man struggling to climb out of the sand. Only parts of the head, hands, feet and one knee are visible.

Nice little sandy area on the harbor where you can sit for a bit or in the case of the many children I saw, run around and climb on the sculpture. There are a half dozen Adirondack chairs available but you can bring a blanket to sit on and something to snack on. And hey...it's free!

This piece had been at Haines point for many years and is a welcome addition to an otherwise sterile development.

Beautiful view and wonderful place to let the kids play and interact with art. Can get overcrowded with tourists but that's to be expected.

Like some sort of mythical Norse or sea deity arising from the earth, though from the somewhat terrified look on its face, one could also have thoughts of quicksand. The metalwork is detailed and well articulated. While the sculpture does look interesting contrasted with nearby piers and shops, it is good to get a perspective without those distractions. The surrounding mini beach provides an ideal setting.

Walking off dinner at the waterfront, we pass a little beach side playground, and suddenly realize that "slide" is a very large person's knee! The giant man Awakening from the sand was some kind of amazing - but to paraphrase Lindonna Flynn-Fletcher, I'm not sure I always understand public art :D

Metal sculpture of Zeus buried in sand, great place for kids to get in the sand, climb on the sculpture parts and burn off energy, right on the Harbor so a beautiful location

Fun Day! We had a great time with the kids. Bonus with the Peep store right there too! Not our first or last visit!

Taking into account that most of the body is not visible, I initially thought it was the statue of a swimmer. I guess you can also think of it as a guy who wakes up and you see only the body parts that come out from under the bed sheet (sand). This statue is especially fun for kids. They attempt to climb on the face and on the limbs. The most attractive seems to be the knee, where the kids line up to climb, then slide back down (pretty bumpy ride and not the safest slide). As an added "benefit", they get metal residue everywhere their body or their clothes brush against the statue.

The Awakening Sculpture is a really interesting site to see. You can take photos on the sculptures, just be cautious. The sculptures are very hot due to the sun.

Neat display right on the water. Kids were digging in the sand, climbing on the hand, head and arm of this mythical creature. Very cool

Great for the kids to play in, or to take photos with the sculpture. Have never seen a sculpture like this anywhere, fits in with the environment.

The Awakening Sculpture is in the perfect spot. Found and old love climbing up on it. Its in such a lovely picturesque location and I am glad I live just down the highway from it. The National harbor is a place with so much to do!

This is the one of the most amazing sculptures I have seen. We were able to walk right up to it and the detail of the face just incredible. Not to be missed.

Great art sculpture for all ages. Fun to play at the beach at National Harbor and try to dig up the giant. Lots to do within a rocks throw. Shop, eat, play!

Dr. M

This is a really cool sculpture. Great for kids! You can climb all over it and take some hilarious photos. Very memorable experience and free to visit.

Was looking forward to seeing this piece of art when visiting here, and this...along with a lot of the artwork at national harbor....was a hit. My teenage daughters found it pretty cool, reminded them of grounds for sculpture. Zeus was impressive...lol. The fact you can pose and take pics with the statues are always fun for selfie enthusiasts like my family

Disclaimer - I haven't actually been to the statue since they moved it from East Potomac Park in DC but it's so worth visiting that I had to write a review (so no, I didn't visit it in '23). I loved it as a college student & my kids had a blast climbing on it when they were young. It's really such a fun statue to climb on & take pics w. Great for the young & the young at heart.

This is so fun to see and sooo much bigger than you think. Beautiful day and night!! It's really impossible to imagine until you see it!

This is something you have to look for as it is on a small beach in the middle of the commercial area. We almost did not see it. I remember when it was in the middle of the Potomac River in the 1980s. It was a massive hit with the kids for climbing and plenty of spots for parents to sit and watch

Really? Who thinks up these cool things? Right below the BIG screen is Neptune coming out of the sand. Great touch

A national treasure moved from Washington, DC to Mayland. Kids love this spot at National Harbour. The sculpture is BIGGER than life with amazing photo opportunities.

Great sculpture best viewed from above where you can take cool pictures. It's outside and close to the huge Ferris wheel

This statue was a definite hit with the younger set. A must see in the area of you have some young ones who need to express some energy. Amassed in a giant sandbox makes play fun for all ages.

In the sand at waterfront, looks like a giant coming awake out of the sand, neat area for the kids to play around in! Unique sculpture, worth a look when there!

This place has this very comical sculpture. Very expensive eating places. I do not recommend at all.

I'd like to see this sculpture at high tide. The boat tour guide said it looks different, but he could've been pulling our legs.

Down by the harbor, great for the kids to see! Lots of shops and restaurants in this area too. A great place to walk around and see all of the harbor has to offer.

The Awakening Sculpture use to reside in Haines Point, Washington DC. Before it was sold to National Harbor. When I lived in DC I would visit this sculpture once a year. I loved watching the kids reaction when they saw the Awakening. It is a real conversation starter. Highly recommend!

Easy to let the kid in you come out once you see this magnificent sculpture rising from the sands! The plus here is kids (of all ages) are encouraged to climb on this piece of art.

Of course you have to go check it out in national harbor. Right on the walkway it has a Very interesting design and is a fun photo opp.

This was a very cool and sizable sculpture. I was surprised you couldn’t get close to it...got some good pictures from the boardwalk...but would have been even more photos worthy if we could have walked down and gotten up close and personal.

I was not aware this sculpture was here. It is right on the waterfront.

This is one of the many must see attractions at National Harbor.

This has to be the same sculpture that was constructed for an outdoor sculpture show that took place in Washington in the early 1980's. I believe this sculpture was placed on Roosevelt Island where it was quite popular at the time of the exhibit. The sculpture is fun and kids love it. I highly recommend it.

Cool piece of art in the middle of the harbor and a good spot to tell people to meet you at as a meeting point.

It made me think of a character from Tolkien's story "Roverandom" at first glance. However, walking by it several times, I always found the exposed upper thigh a bit uncomfortable.
I understand this statue used to be in a different park (with grass) and was moved to this bit of sand. I don't recall seeing any signage about the artist, or the history of the work. In this location, it seems a bit kitschy.

There are big comfy chairs to sit on and people watch and harbor watch. Great scupture..So unique Great photo op.

Unique and interesting sculpture on the shore. At first I didn't notice all the parts and that is what made me look closely.

The sculpture takes up a good portion of the little man-made beach here. It's just right for the area. People were able to walk and play in and around the sculpture. It was very nice.

My children loved it, especially the small beach area, but the sculpture just confused me. Great views, though.

I feel that this is a hidden gem. This is one of the things I felt I definitely wanted to see on my trip. The pieces are distanced nicely and the plaques of information were displayed in a central location. The area is wheelchair friendly for an overall view but not an up-close view.

Come early in the morning before the crowd. I was able to take the picture in any angle I want. Huge statue and beautiful. Not much beside the statue.

I guess it is kind of neat but there are kids climbing all over it and running all around. Plus it is in the dirt/sand so you have to deal with that mess. I wouldn't go out of my way to see it for sure.

Very nice. If you have kids you have to bring them to play on the sculpture in the sand. The kids can take their shoes off and run and play in the sand. They can get close to the water not deep no rails no swimming allowed yet. I heard they may turn it into a beach. I personally like the area my self. Very nice

Not only is this a great piece of art, it's also a big attraction for kids. Mine climbed all over it, along with many other kids. We had an interesting conversation about whether the giant was buried or falling.

Only downside - the kids hands and faces and clothes were completely black and filthy from climbing on the sculpture! Nothing that didn't wash off.

I wouldn't go out of my way to see it, but we were there anyway. It is a conversation starter and interesting, but also off-putting in a way. Certainly a curiosity.

We enjoyed seeing the sculpture in the sand. While we were there, there was a free meditation class going on...overall, a very neat experience.

The statue is really cool and we were all trying to figure out if it was Poseidon or another god, turns out it’s just a giant. My only wish is it wasn’t in sand, the kids all got covered and of course brought some back to the hotel in their shoes.

We were there when it was not crowded so were able to get some great photos. We didn't know the title of the sculpture so I thought it was a guy drowning!

My family was there last night. Could not tell what it was at first in the dark but once you see it, it's pretty cool. Kids had fun climbing all over the thing. Made me wish I was a kid.

We visited the Harbor at sunset and the beach was closed but you could not miss this sculpture protruding from the sand. It is interesting and cool and worth taking a look if you are in the area.

Very nicely done. Nice large screen and open space for activities. Shops near by to find that unique outfit.

I was really sad when they moved this statue off of Haines Point. But, where it is now, it gets a lot more attention. Really fun for kids and adults alike.

I wouldn't go to National Harbor just to see this, but if you are there, walk down to see it. Reminds of of Gulliver Travels with the giant awakening out of the sand by the water. Kids were climbing all over it and having a great time. Fun!

This is a HUGE sand play lot with the sculpture I think it's suppose to be Neptune - his body is buried but there are five cast-aluminum pieces at more than 70 feet across, coming out of the sand and has become a favorite place for children to climb and play around

I love taking picture here with friends and family. This larger-than-life sculpture is so picturesque as it appears to rise out of the sand. The water is the backdrop is beautiful. Come at sunset for a relaxing experience.

Now I remember this piece at its original installation site on Hains Point (imagine this sculpture of a drowning man in a sea of grass surrounded by water). While Hain's Point was a better site IMHO, I do think it gets a lot of people looking and climbing over it where it is now. I think it is deserving. As an adult, I'm climbing all over this piece wondering how many pieces they cast and soldered together...it is HUGE. And still moving.

I love this sculpture that was made by the American artist Seward Johnson. His realistic, life sized sculptures are amazing. I saw his other realistic sculpture "Marylyn Monroe" at the National Harbor. A few years ago I saw his artworks for the first time at Grounds for Sculpture located in NJ.

This is a cool little area at national harbor on the patomic. There is sand and sculpture. If you ever find yourself at national harbor take a moment to go see it. It's the only thing you'll find for free in that area!

Amazing modular sculpture in the sand. Viewed from above (from the pier walkway - no flying) or at ground level, it is just breathtaking.

Real cool spot to take pictures and see the water. It can be hard to get a picture at times because of the people. But if you are patience it's worth it

This is a beautiful sculpture, and it's also fun to see people interacting with it. It's free and open to the public, which is always good in an area where most things cost a lot of money. Definitely worth seeing.

Not worth a special trip. Clever presentation of man rising from the earth. Actually sand now. Originally at Haines Point in DC where it was more effective due to the open expanse of land, the statue now rests on a tiny piece of beach sand at the marina just large enough to contain the statue, which is actually several disparate pieces.

I used to always take friends to see the Awakening at its old home at the tip of Haines Point. This terrific piece of art is a great photo op and a nice visit on a pleasant day. Now located at the National Harbor, it's one more interesting thing to do there. Don't miss it!

My husband and I stayed near the National Harbor and walked to this sculpture. I remember seeing this when I was visiting DC when I was a teenager, but it was located in a different area. since it was raining, we had the entire place to ourselves. It was interesting to see again.

Definitely an artwork to see if you are visiting National Harbor. It used to be at Haines Point years ago and not nearly in as dramatic a setting.

I first visited it at its old location before National Harbor was built, now it is at the base of National Harbor and a nice spot for photos, looks great where it is.

Was really neat to see this. Kids enjoyed climbing on it if you were lucky you get snap a pic with no one on it. Recommend seeing this.

I really don;t know why they dug the Awakening Sculpture to bring it to the Harbor but the kids love it. I just don't like the fact that it gets flooded all the time and it looks eeerie coming out the water. I hate that people are always climbing on it after all it is a piece of art.

Creatively placed in the midst of playground, right on riverfront, best angle for pictures is from above

This sculpture is in the National Harbor, near the water. It looks to be a human figure emerging from the sand. It appears popular with tours and kids (it is is a sandy area that you can play in), but I just found it strange.

Having just listened to Percy Jackson books on audio, my kids called this sculpture Kronos. Fun the climb on, the small beach area adjacent to the water was a nice place to take a break and let the kids play. One downside, the metal gets VERY hot during the heat of the day.

I was attending a conference, Summit '17 hosted by the Society of Technical Communication, a professional organization for technical writers. Stumbling upon the Awakening sculpture at the waters edge of the National Plaza was mind boggling. How fun I thought, its a tech writer! Then, it speaks figuratively of a nation in perpetual awakening.

... and making nothing. Not the best show on earth. Even not the best show on sand :-) At least we saw a few ospreys !

What makes this place worth to visit is the surroundings:The Capital wheel, the shopping st, the marina, etc... the sculpture is well maintained, it's well located, and the atmosphere is very pleasant.

Worth walking down to the water to see. Walk all around and look at all the statues. This one is the largest and the kids can climb on it.

The awakening? Cool overall but was pointed out to me looks like the subject is being swallowed by the earth with the facial expression and hand positions....kinda disturbing....could be both views i guess..... but none the less pretty cool piece.
Creepy and interesting at the same time.

What a neat sculpture for kids to hang out in the area. Fun town for day or evening! We spend a few hours here.

We visited in Nov/Dec, and my daughter LOVED that there was a beach area she could play on. She loved the sculpture. What a cool photo op area even in the cold.

It's a bit strange to review a sculpture, but it is quite neat, and so easily accessible. On a sunny day in the middle of a conference you can sure feel like you're at an upscale beach for a moment.

This sculpture is unique & really amazing. The kids loved it & the adults were equally impressed. Got to be seen to be believed.

We loved the Awakening Sculpture. We had a hard time finding an angle to get the whole effect, because we wanted a picture, but it didn't matter. Every element is interesting by itself.

I set out to find this sculpture and it did not disappoint! While there were families playing around it, they happened to leave at the same time and I got to enjoy it all by itself.

Great for younger kids. Because they can climb up on the statue and take great pictures. Something for the entire family.

It was fun taking pictures with the sculptures!
Lots of sand, so wear appropriate shoes.
Fun for the kiddos!

I loved to see the larger than life sculpture scattered on the sand... to see him coming out of the sand was reall cool

Kids loved the statue and claimed all over it. I was not a fan of their hands being extremely dirty, something on the statue seems to cause this.

As a child I remember this statue being in DC at Haines Point. It definitely has a good home here. It's great seeing all the kids enjoying it and climbing all over it. It brings back a lot of childhood memories every time I see it.

The Awakening Sculpture is the best thing about the Harborfront. Great photo opportunities, and happening on this sculpture was a pleasant surprise

Really got a kick out of this. It’s fun watching different age people playing around it and examining it. Wish I knew more of the history of it.

Watching the children play, and their amazement at the size of the sculpture. A unique piece of art.

It was not my first sight of it. It is always interesting to me. The sculpture is very big and eye caching one. It's place in the sand is exciting too.

I know they want us to write at least 100 words, but I don’t have 100 words to describe this sculpture. It is a great piece of artwork in my book.

This is a very cool sculpture. Every time I am at the National Harbor kids are playing here, adults are taking photos, it is just fun.

Ery well placed clean it is the heaven of kids and old people.it is clean and very well laid. I look at it like a pice of art.

The sculpture itself is pretty neat and has really nice placement with the view of the water and the wheel in the background. It would be a good place for a photo if you were willing to get covered it the dirty sand that was there. Also as many other reviewers stated, I was there at 11am and there were a few kids crawling all over it so I can’t even imagine it later in the day when people are out and about. It is nice but definitely has some flaws.

A wonderful sculpture that can capture the imagination of both the young and the not so young. More suitable for the kids as it's partially buried in the sand and by the water. Did see quite a few adults behaving like kids at this site, which might be the whole idea

We used to go and visit this sculpture when it was in DC but this a much better location & taken care of here. Wonderful area for photos and to see the waterfront. Children love it!!

This sculpture will be one of MANY things to photograph on this waterfront. I do recommend the a walk along the pier. And we did enjoy the Capital (Ferris) Wheel...

Huge sculpture reaching out of the sand is pretty impressive if not a little scary for the littlies.

My grandson who is an artist in the making was really intrigued with this sculpture. We took photos of them in the palm of the hand.

I've certainly never seen anything like this before - I think it's Neptune awakening as coming out of the sand (?). Benches available to sit and plenty of sand for the little ones to play. Right on the water.

The Awakening Sculpture was fantastic. The location was in a perfect spot. A place for all to see. I would recommend to go and see.

Very attractive sculpture and very beautiful. It is huge and very interesting. It is a must see in the area.

we.happened.upon.this....one.of.the.best.things.was.this.one.of.the.rare.sculptures.the.kids.could.climb.all.over.It.was.easy.to.take.a.good.picture.too.

We happened along this quite unexpectedly and found it very interesting. It’s hard to get pictures as kids love climbing on it. Be sure to check it out!

This is a really cute idea...the kids seem to love it. Although it rained almost every day of our trip, this seemed to be a highlight with the kids we saw.

You can't help but see this as well as many other sculptures if you are wandering around National Harbor... Check it out! Very cool! Just couldn't find the perfect spot for a good photo!

This sculpture in the sand was amazing! Very interactive for kids. There were lots of people taking pictures and kids climbing all over.
A must see if you are in the area.

Really cool sculpture. More like a playground for kids! My daughter could have spent a few hours playing there if I hadn't convinced her to leave.

This piece, together with other paintings and sculptures all over National Harbor, made our visit interesting, memorable and yes, Instagrammable! A little difficult to get a good shot of The Awakening at night though.

We had a lot of fun taking pictures of (and with) the sculpture. It's very detailed and impressive. Great to pass the time with friends or family.

To be truthful, I liked its original location in Haines Point much better but anywhere that you can see it, it is memorable. The Washington DC area is chock full of interesting sculpture outside in gardens and parks but this remains one of my favorites. A must see if going to National Harbour MD

Definitely worth a look... the beach area it is located was specifically built and prepared for this sculpture. It was in another location, but was reported to be purchased and move for $750k. Kids love to play on it and great for photo ops!

The sculpture is a sight to behold, with arms / legs above the sand (reminds you of the visibility of the tip of an iceberg). Sand for kids to play. Lovely restaurants. Nice walking area. Superb for a nice evening out with kids / family / friends.

We enjoyed looking at and discussing the sculpter. It was interesting and since it was free, it gets a 5.

Enjoyed it at Hains Point, where it was initially installed. Love the juxtaposition to the harbor, in its current location. The kids seemed to love climbing all over it.

Art is always neat to view, especially when it is hands on. Interesting and unique sculpture. Worth seeing.

being we were here in the winter, the area was not full of people. When we saw the appendages protruding from the ground, it took a moment to figure out what we were looking at.

So unique, fun, and interesting! Once you start talking about it, lots of people have some memory of playing on it as a kid. Great photo opp.

I was surprised by the amount of statues and free standing artwork sprinkled throughout National Harbor

I was in town from New Orleans with my family visiting Washington DC over Thanksgiving. I saw this in DC when I was a kid in the 1980s. Wanted to revisit and share with my daughters. Was the same as I remembered. Is an incredible structure.

The Awakening Sculpture at the National Harbor is a bit creepy. It’s a big disjointed metal sculpture of a giant. It’s got a sci-fi feel to it.

It's literally just a sculpture in the sand with kids climbing all over it. I wouldn't even call it an attraction, and if it weren't near restaurants it wouldn't even be noticeable.

It is a fun place in National Harbor. During our visits for the Holiday Season we have seen it with snow and unseasonable warm and the appeal is always there. Families enjoying playing on the sculpture or looking at the river. It is a great spot for pictures. During this time of year the Christmas Tree is a Festive background. As an Art patron, this piece makes me think about how bad it would be to be buried in sand and have folks play on me. That's an Awakening. As a Traveler it is a Must Experience not must just see. Enjoy! My pictures show people on 'Our Friend'.

This statue was at Haines Point in DC. Great for the kids and for a memorable photo op. Make sure you visit this DC iconic scupture

Was seen at the National Harbor, quite impressive. It’s worth taking some pictures with your friends and family.

This sculpture never disappoints. Interesting and somewhat startling the first time. It’s usually being climbed by a bunch of kids. Definitely a photo op.

This is a favorite sculpture, and it was much better placed in Haynes Point in DC. It's new place is just so cramped and it doesn't do it justice. But it's still a great sculpture! Lots of fun to visit with kids.
The whole National Harbor Area is a very strange concoction.

The Harbor was full of families getting ready for the Floating Lantern Festival. Everyone was decorating their own lantern. There was music, the Ferris Wheel, Food Trucks, and LOTS of people.

This is a great area in National Harbor for the kids to run around and play in the sand plus climb the statue also the get some great action photos.
Also interesting for adults to come and view the giant body parts emerging from the sand.
Definitely recommend

Always a busy place but it is convenient place for kids to play in the sand. Close to the Peeps store and to the Ferris Wheel.

This a truly awesome modern art installation . Located just above the water level on the National Harbor, surrounded by sand (and partially under water with the recent hurricane surge) this sculpture is remarkable. The head is at least 8-9 feet tall and the expressive feeling of struggle that the positioning stirs in those that view is just wonderful.

Who needs the beach when you can let your little ones play on this sculpture. This is a great place to take pictures on a sunny day.

Great photo opportunity on the beach at the National Harbor - the giant awakening from sleep! The kids live to climb the sculpture

Great place for kids to burn off some energy. There is sand, they can climb the statue and it is right on the water! Very nice how clean everything was around it!

The children took several minutes a couple of times to run and climb around the parts. It's probably be nice to have a visible placard or something to explain it's purpose. We made up our own stories! It's not really made for climbing on, I would guess. But nevertheless, it offered a few moments of and open area for littles to let some steam off.

Amazing sculpture, too bad that a ton of kids were around and crawling on it. I guess it does get a lot of attention :)

A great way to get the wiggles out! Parents can enjoy the view while kids play. On hot days the metal sculpture is quite hot. Be careful.

This culture is indeed interesting. A man arising from the sandy beach. Kids play here, many photos are taken here. That's about all. You saw it. Check.

This sculpture was sited for many years on a point of land in East Potomac Park. As you drove up to the site the figure appeared to rise dramatically from the earth, reaching for the sky, or slowly receeding into the depths. The setting provided a great opportunity to experience the work in a variety of ways. The current setting, in a sand box, at the National Harbor, is possibly the worst possible placement of the dramatic work.

We hadn't been to National Harbor before. We really enjoyed it! Beautiful view of the Potomac, lots of places to eat, and plenty of parking garages to use.

After going on the Harbor Ferris Wheel, we stopped so the kids could play in the sand. They had a very good time. I caution, though, bring hand wipes because they will come out of the area needing to clean their hands.

It's fun to see this statue of a mythical figure mostly buried in the sand. Kids climb on the hand and head while parents take interesting pictures. It's a must see in the harbor.

Its always cool to take in a movie here over the weekends. Especially during the summer. Right at the waterfront and many eateries and restaurants and hotels nearby. A happening spot just a few clicks from the MGM Casino right next door.

This was pretty neat to see in the middle of National Harbor, and looked fun for the kids to climb on. This just adds to the flare of National Harbor with its Capital Wheel, boardwalk, giant screen TV, and fantastic harbor views.

The awakening sculpture is on a beach area perfect relax and enjoy the view and perfect for kids to play. Amazing how much enjoyment kids get from trying to climb the different parts of the sculpture!

Quite unique sculpture. Not everyone may appreciiate it but children are enthralled with it. They are usually left to play alone while parents supervise from a safe distance. The views are spectacular from this location and Virginia Bridge is in sight

This thing is so super cool! I've never seen a sculpture like this before. It's very interactive and kids love to climb all over it. We loved it!

Had seen this posted on line and wanted to see it up close. It is pretty cool to see. Challenge to obtain a good pic without people or kids on the sand area, but still interesting to see it in person.

Fun sculpture to view. Children will enjoy climbing around it on this very small beach on the Potomac River. Not for swimming

The beach is small but pristine, the sculpture is an entertaining and original piece of art. Very clever.

Near the waterfront, the Capital Wheel and shops, restaurants. It is very interesting concept. Pretty at different times of the day with sun and shadows. It's free but you have to pa to park in the area. A huge hit with kids who love to climb all over it.

Really a unique sculpture. It's beautiful to see at night once the gates are closed and there is no crowd. During the day you can actually walk up to it and you'll probably see a lot of children playing on it.

An interesting piece of sculptural art on a strip of sandy beach at National Harbor. Worth a five minute stop.

Awesome sculpture by the water, pictures don't do justice, a must see! There are chairs to sit on by this, a big screen tv which shows movies on certain nights. A great place!

Great activity for the kids, big and little ones...near the water, plenty of sand, nice statue that was once located at Haines Point in Washington, D.C. It has lots of memories for me as a child.

I had missed this the first time I went to ride The Wheel in the National Harbor. It was nighttime and I overlooked in rising our of the sand on the riverfront. The following day, when I went back to walk around the harbor I discovered it in all its glory and majesty. It's very impressive and awesome , even a bit ominous. A real sculptural tour de force.

Nice place and area for families and kids. Love to see kids playing around the sculpture. Perfect stop for a photo.

We found this to be very interesting and it provoked a discussion on "what is it". The kids really seemed to love it too, but more as a play thing. So what will you see? Artist calls it awakening but I thought it reminded me as a possible scene from Gullivers Travels.

Got to go see it, and if you can walk around the sculpture... you will say the same thing as I did ..Wow! It is Amazing !

Great, partially submerged-in-sand metal Neptune sculpture. Kids love to climb on it, a great spot for photo-ops. You first see a huge arm and hand emerging from near the water. When you get closer, you see it is the head, feet and arms of Neptune. As a companion remarked, "Thank Goodness some of him is buried!"
All ages found ways to interact with this whimsical artwork.

Good sculpture but always crowded with tourists around it. Go at 6 in the morni g to get a good picture.

This is amazing! Large, sandy area that the kids and adults both loved right next to the river. Sculpture is fantastic! There is also a huge outdoor screen for watching sports games and movies . This is free.

Every time we come to National Harbor, the gkids want to play here. Just fun! Running, climbing, getting dirty, shoes off, enjoying a place where they can just run around, and laugh while making new acquaintances ! Adults hang out and relax, or join in the fun! Category that says Families would cover it. Great for pictures with the back drops of the "Awakening" statue, and the water!

I saw this sculpture as a child and finally returned to share the experience with my children 30 years later. I was still thrilled by this large sculpture. My kids that it waa really cool. I recommend you stop by if you are near National Harbour.

Beautiful piece of art. It's really odd looking but kids will love to climb on it and a great spot for pictures.

They close the beach gate due to Covid, so you could not see it closely but the statue is big enough allows you can take pictures from the deck that located top of the statue.

The statue is a man buried in the sand @ the edge of National Harbor. Protruding from the sand are his: head, hand, knee. It’s just so interesting to view. And, my nieces had a fun time climbing on parts of it-and sliding down!

Really unique and beautiful sculpture. One feels like your in the future look back on America after some natural disaster.

One of the reasons we visited National Harbor recently was to see and photograph The Awakening. By midday Friday, there were tourists all over this tiny area of sand and sculpture. However, I got this shot early Saturday morning when almost nobody was around and the sand was still smooth. BTW, don't overlook some of the lesser known outdoor art as well while you're visiting the National Harbor.

I'm not into art, I took me a while to figure out what was happening here but once I saw this is a massive sculpture. A very interesting feature on the beach, might scare some people.

Digs, Get it? He was in a field at Hains Point when we first met, and now he has a sand beach. Art meets Play. I was like "What is THAT?" and went on to take in his grandeur. The guy is BIG! I agree with the review that says "Lost His Preeminence" but think of the first time you saw the Grand Canyon. Then come back... It's still magnificent, but the shock and awe of the first time can't be repeated. I think The Awakening is like that. I have mixed feelings - Sorry he got booted out, but glad he's in his custom made beach that makes him much more interactive. He deserves our company and we deserve to spend some time with him. He's better for families now, with the sand, and it seems more like he's rising out of it than out of a grassy field. If you've got kids along, his arm works as a slide! He's thick cast aluminum. You won't wear him out.

Very unusual piece of sculpture. To truly appreciate it you need to see it close up as well as from a distance to get perspective, especially with the harbor as backdrop.

I first saw this in the early 80's in a grassy setting at night. What a sight to behold, it looked like a huge person waking up from a long sleep. After 27 years he moved to the national harbor, beachfront, close to the water. Larger than life, great photo ops, I hope someone takes a picture when the weather changes, perhaps with ice cycles dripping from his head as he awakens in the spring of 2017 in his beachfront location.

Very interesting sculpture coming out of the sand. Didn't go down to explore as there were people seated on beach lounges and we didn't want to disturb them. Now I need to research the meaning of the sculpture

What a novel idea ....just phenomenal! Kids and adults alike took pictures and even set on parts of the sculpture !!!!

Quite interesting sculpture. Assume the same artist with another or similar one of these in Chesterfield, west of St. Louis, near where we lived and thought cool.

Had seen the sculpture in Haines Park before it was relocated. Glad to see it in a livelier area as the main focal point of the harbor area.

This is a small like beach - sandy area were kids can play while adults enjoy the view. The sculpture adds an adventure to the place, kids love to run around this fantastic piece of art.

Spent the Holidays at the Harbor to see the Ice Sculptures at the Gaylord.
I always liked the awakening sculpture, so I enjoyed it very much.

Gorgeous sculpture - it's parts of a large man emerging from burial in the beach sand. Very thought provoking and fun for kids to climb on

It took a minute to figure out what was happening with this structure, but once we were able to see the whole thing, we thought it was great. it is a great place for children to play.

The hotels trying to have something to look at. Nothing special. Suggest not staying in national harbor.

I prefer the sculpture at its original installation at Hains Point near the Jefferson Memorial. That being said, it's location now still begs kids to climb on it and enjoy this artwork. Parking can be a little tough, but is worth it. There's planty of shopping and eateries around to satisfy any craving.

Photos do not do this justice, it really has to be seen in person! It is much larger than it appears to be in photos and really does look like a sleeping giant has been awakened and is trying to get up out of the earth. Very cool.

We walked all around the National Harbor. This was an interesting piece to see, but I wouldn't make a special trip for it.

It was good to see so many people enjoying this sculpture. It was lost and forlorn at Hanes Point. Good move relocating it here.

I thought that it was pretty neat. If you are in National Harbor, you can't avoid it! Not worth a special trip.

the awakening sculpture is amazing. The sculpture has an unique history how it got to Inner Harbor. take your shoes off and walk in the sand. Located next to the river and along with the giant ,giant TV screen. all ages enjoy it.

Some people have told me this is spiritual but it just felt to me that it was a person drowning in quicksand. I guess it's one of those you either see the glass half full or half empty. I think it is supposed to be someone coming up out of the sand but I think it appears they are drowning. I felt it disturbing but again... each to his own. It was an amazing sculpture job when you look at the work itself without looking at how it is positioned.

The is one of the coolest sculptures we have seen in a long time. Coming to National Harbor for the weekend and walking around, The Awakening Sculpture will open up your imagination to the wonder of how
This happened. It is one of the best we have seen in the outdoors.

It's an interesting sculpture. Because of where it is and its structure, sculpture doesn't quite cover it. It takes up several hundred square feet and is in at least 3 distinct pieces. It's possible to miss it altogether because of its size. Definitely worth seeing.

This is wonderful art. Make sure you see it at both high and low tide. I love it. A good place for a picnic too.

This area is a lovely little place with sand and a nice sculpture right on the water.
Would be a great place to bring a picnic lunch or have a date. There is nearby kayaking and water taxis, as well as eateries and an ice cream stand.

My toddler walked down with my teenager and I had a moment of panic once I realized there are rocks to climb on and nothing to stop a toddler from falling or jumping into the harbor and drowning. Watch your kids like a hawk at this area, don't turn your back for a second!
There was a nice police man strolling regularly constantly telling parents to keep their kids off the rock. I think a few signs should be added, as well as even netting or a protective fence. Sadly, this will only happen after a tragedy occurs.

If you come to DC you have to take a pic near the sculpture. The awakening sculpture has been around for a long time now. Used to be located at Haines Point Park in DC. Now at the National Harbor. Allow the kids to run around it, climb it, and get the picture. Located with clean sand to relax near calm waters. Year round...

This is definitely an interesting sculpture that you will see as you make your way down to the wheel or in the marina area. If you are in that area stop by to see it but don't make a special trip.

I went to the National Harbor in Maryland while visiting DC. The Awakening Sculpture was something that definitely stood out. As you walked down the pier you couldn’t help but notice it. It was a really neat place for children and families to play and climb around in. Not really sure why it was there, but something you would want to see while simply walking around.

Great small recreation park for kids to enjoy outside play. Very organized area with sand for the kids

Actually, the drive out to national harbor to see the awakening is worth the trip. What a great piece of art and display. The kids loved it.

tiny clean beach on the Potomoc with wonderful sunset views and great restaurants nearby. Great selfie pic place

While in town for an event a friend suggested we go see the Awakening and enjoy the National Harbor. Having never seen the Harbor I was surprised at all of the improvements in the area along the shoreline capped by the Awakening Sculpture. We had fun taking pictures around it and walking around the harbor. Following the path up from the display screen we enjoyed all of the statues displaying moments in American history from the revolution through modern times from iconic photos of the time,

The Awakening is a statue of a giant embedded in the earth locating in the front area of the National Harbor in Prince George's County. The first location of this structure was at Hains Point in East Potomac Park in Washington D.C. Later after the National Harbor was completed, it was moved here. It is a very popular landmark of the National Harbor. You will see it when walking in the area. It is part of the outdoor art exhibit.

There is a lot to see and do at the National Harbor and this is just one more of it's amazing attractions. This gives the kids an opportunity to have some fun and exert some of that extra energy. It also gives the parents a break from all of the walking.

It is just a strange sculpture on the harbor... close to the harbor
Little walk around area near water, nice view of the harbor
thanks

We visited the Gaylord hotel for Christmas. Spent a few hours walking around the harbor. The kids noticed this sculpture and we’re really taken to it. Had a fun time climbing on it. Definitely worth spending 10 or 15 minutes letting the kids look at the sculpture, climb on it, and view it from different angles.

Interesting to finally see in person. Easy to walk down a few steps and get up close, and great for a few pics. But, WARNING! Be careful. The way it's set up, you can easily think you're about to go down steps, when in fact it is not and it drops down a few feet. I almost made the mistake a couple of times, and saw an older man take a fall.

We stopped here on our way home from DC. The kids thought that the sculpture was stunning and fun to play on. Caution, it is hot on a summer day. It was a fund way to get out some energy and enjoy the harbor.

I believe that this sculpture used to be at Haines Point in the District. It is moving and worth the trip. It is also free.

It is such an interesting sculpture. It's like a body buried under sand with the the foot, leg arm and head showing.

The sculpture was very interesting to go see. It’s on the beach area of the National Harbor. It’s fun for the entire family. Great photo oportunity.

Huge (dare I say YUUUGGGE) bits of a person (hand, knee, foot, etc.) sticking out of the sand on the harbor front. Well worth seeing.

Old location allowed for better pics. That being said, go there and take photos! Still an amazing installation. We visited to retake photos of children, now 15 years older, to put side by side. It was fun for them to recreate.

You do a double-take when you first see this sculpture - it looks like a huge man figure buried in the sand, with just the head, arms and legs sticking up out of the sand. Kids seemed to love playing on/around the sculpture.

Was surprised to see this sculpture in the middle of the sand. Was very popular with photos and kids climbing. This area has lots of unique sculptures.

Nice piece of art work placed in an appropriate location. No way to miss it while you walk around the harbor

Nice photo opp. Kids get to play on the structures. Not something that I would come back every day for. But it is something you need to see while in National Harbor.

We had occasion to view this outstanding sculpture while staying in the National Harbor recently at the Gaylord. The sculpture is very original and is both below and above the ground. It gives the illusion of someone 'awakening' from beneath the ground, pushing up with their feet, hands, and arms. I recommend seeing it if you are ever in the National Harbor area on the waterfront.

I've seen this three times and it still confuses me a bit. It is an interesting piece of art, though.

Very beautiful place. This sculpture is amazing … and gave us many ideas of pictures lol

Also loved families and kids around ❤️

The original Hains point location was apt for this structure. It was at the end of the peninsula and one came across it as surprise. It was more approachable. Now, it is located at the bottom of the steps and kind of hidden. But, the sculpture is unique. I think it evokes memories of Jesus resurrecting himself. The idea is original and gives meaning of a hero rising to save the world.

We read about this online and my grandson got even more excited when he saw it in person. It was the perfect thing for expending some 4 year old energy after a day of travel. What a great addition to the waterfront!

Best time to see is at high tide, you can take pictures on or near it at low tide. There is no charge to get to the artwork.

Great photo opportunities in an interesting area. Unique sculptures make from some creative subject posing.

I've lived in this region for more than 30 years, and this is still one of my favorites! The Awakening depicts a giant waking from a nap. Only half of his body is out of the ground. It's wonderful, and a must-see!

This is the perfect place to showcase such a large, expressive piece of artwork. It is in an open area that people can see from several angles and appreciate. it is also set in sand so young children can play in this area and climb on the pieces safely.

Very interesting sculpture entitled “Awakening” at National Harbor.
Interesting in that parts of a body are Awakening from the earth.

While walking around the harborfront, we stopped to look at the sculpture. We weren't sure what or who it is supposed to be but all four of us thought it was Poseidon (are we right?) There were quite a few children climbing on it, enjoying themselves.

This was a a unique creation buried in the sand, not too likely to be seen elsewhere. Although my visit was during January at a business event, the sculpture may have fun to pose by in warmer weather.

Saw this for the first time when I brought a group of my students from Hawaii on an historical tour of the East Coast in 1998. It was in a different location on grass. Students thought it represented the struggle of the founding of this Democracy in America. I agreed with them. It was a very powerful representation of forming a more "Perfect Union" which continues to this day! Seektande@aol.com

Yearssssssssssss ago, this fascinating sculpture first captivated me at Haines Point and it still WOWS me. Writing this review causes my mind to journey back, remembering how its extraordinary uniqueness made me and makes me stand still to soak in the wonderment encompassing this piece.

Walked over to the sculpture to take photos, the view was wonderful. Great place to visit when you have out of town guest.

I had never heard of this sculpture before I visited but it was quite impressive!

We had lots of fun getting photos and just walking around at the harbor.