The recently opened Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture has proved so popular that the museum has sold out tickets through March of 2017.

When the museum opened its doors on 21 September, Smithsonian officials expected around 7,000 visitors per day. That number has now more than tripled, with 30,000 flocking to the institution on a daily basis.

Entrance to the museum is free for visitors, but date-specific tickets are required for entry. Visitors can queue up for a “day of” pass but thanks to overwhelming online demand, these tickets are limited.

“The historic significance and high visibility of the museum are attracting an unprecedented number of local, national, and international visitors,” said a museum statement. “Due to this, the museum implemented the Timed Pass system to serve as many visitors as possible while maintaining a secure, safe and smooth flow of people.”

The 400,000sq ft (37,000sq m) museum, which focuses on themes of African American history, culture and community, is located on a five-acre site on Constitution Avenue next to the Washington Monument.

The nine-story building features exhibition galleries, an education centre, a 350-seat theatre and a café. Signature spaces are the Contemplative Court, a memorial area for reflection; the Central Hall, the primary public space in the museum; and a reflecting pool at the south entrance.

The building was designed by the Freelon Adjaye Bond/SmithGroup collective, with Tanzanian-born British architect David Adjaye leading the project.