Free Attractions

Explore DC’s museums, memorials and other attractions without breaking the bank. There are more than 100 free things to do in Washington, DC.

Visiting the Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, DC

What is the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden and where is it? The Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden displays some of the most unique artworks in modern and contemporary art, including painting, sculpture and photography. Located at the corner of 7th Street and Independence...

14 National Parks to Explore In & Around Washington, DC

The first national park was established by Congress in 1872, and the National Park Service (NPS) was founded in 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson. The goal of NPS: to conserve and protect America’s parks, historic objects and wildlife. The DC metro area boasts as complete a range of parks as...

13 Can’t-Miss Free Museums on the National Mall

To go with its monuments and memorials, the National Mall boasts an impressive lineup of free museums. Visitors should take advantage of the wide range of experiences on hand, from immersing themselves in classic art to marveling at the wonders of aviation and our natural world. Let your wallet...

Fly High at the National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

All about the Smithsonian's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center Opened in 2003, the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center serves as a partner facility to the National Air and Space Museum . The two locations together attract more than 8 million visits per year, making the National Air and Space complex the most...

Free Things to Do: History & Heritage in Washington, DC

Washington, DC is full of free things to do, and many involve American history, heritage and culture. Below, you will find numerous free museums and attractions, including the city’s iconic monuments and memorials on the National Mall. After exploring these landmarks, there’s no doubt you will have...

Free Things to Do: Fall in Washington, DC

Fall in Washington, DC is full of free things to do, from festivals and foliage to celebrating Halloween and observing Veterans Day. The city features plenty of experiences perfect for the season, including the scenic and the spooky. Discover all of the ways you can have a memorable autumn...

10 Reasons to Visit the United States Botanic Garden in Washington, DC

Washington, DC and the surrounding area are home to numerous national parks , but the city also offers the United States Botanic Garden (100 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20001), a living plant museum that informs one million-plus visitors per year of the importance of plants to not just human...

Guide to Visiting the Washington Monument

Please note: The Washington Monument is currently closed until spring 2019 for repairs that will modernize the elevator and increase long-term reliability and safety. Check the National Park Service's website for updates before you plan your visit. Built to honor George Washington, the commander-in...

Free Things to Do: Outdoor Activities in Washington, DC

You will have no issue finding free outdoor activities in DC. From hiking and running trails such as the Billy Goat Trail in Great Falls Park to awesome places like Rock Creek Park, there are so many things to do outdoors in the nation’s capital, including activities just for kids. Check out some...

Visiting Smithsonian's National Zoo in Washington, DC

Smithsonian's National Zoo is right for you It’s not all elephants and donkeys in DC. At the National Zoo , visitors can find all sorts of animals that don’t subscribe to party lines. Lions, tigers, giraffes and the zoo’s beloved giant pandas are just some of the 1,500-plus animals that call the...