Free Attractions

Explore DC’s museums, memorials and other attractions without breaking the bank. There are more than 100 Free & Almost Free Things to Do in Washington, DC.

Each summer, the National Mall plays host to the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, a massive, multiple-day celebration of international cultures. The 2016 edition (June 29 – July 4, July 7-10) features two themes: Basque: Innovation By Culture and Sounds of California . Read on to learn what...

Visiting the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

A visit to the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is to be transported to a trying time in American history, an era rife with economic depression and international conflict. The memorial, which honors the 32nd president of the United States, is composed of four “rooms” which represent each of...

Visiting the Lincoln Memorial

The experience The Lincoln Memorial towers over the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall . The structure anchors the western end of the Mall, and is a must-see for every visitor to the nation’s capital. The best way to approach the Memorial is from the east, by the Washington Monument and the...

10 Things You Need to Know About the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Washington, DC is readying itself for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture , a powerful, history-making addition to the National Mall . Here’s what you can expect from this architectural marvel located on America’s front yard. Timed entry passes to the museum are...

Visiting the National World War II Memorial

What is the National World War II Memorial and where is it? The National World War II Memorial honors the 16 million people who served as part of the American armed forces during World War II, including more than 400,000 who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The memorial sits along the...

An Interview with Nicole MacCorkle, Giant Panda Keeper

Nicole MacCorkle, giant panda keeper at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo shares the inside scoop on working closely with Tian Tian, Mei Xiang and their cubs. Nicole spills the bamboo on how to get her job, how to baby-proof a panda enclosure and much more about her fluffy friends. In a town full of...

100 Free & Almost Free Things to Do: Best of Town

One surprising and pleasant discovery you’ll make when visiting Washington, DC - many events, museums and attractions are free. Here are a free activities that await on your trip to the nation’s capital.

Visiting the Korean War Veterans Memorial

What is the Korean War Veterans Memorial and where is it? The Korean War Veterans Memorial resides on the National Mall , southeast of the Lincoln Memorial and just south of the Reflecting Pool. All of its components, including its walls, stainless steel statues and Pool of Remembrance, are...

Guide to the National Cherry Blossom Festival

Nothing signifies the arrival of spring in the District quite like the blooming of the cherry blossoms, an event that has spawned a three-week festival celebrating the occasion. More than 1.5 million visitors descend upon Washington, DC each year to admire the 3,000-plus trees. The festival, full...

100 Free & Almost Free Things to Do: LGBT DC

Did you know the nation’s capital is one of the most gay-friendly cities in the country? In the 19th century, poet and gay icon Walt Whitman championed his ideals here. The city recognized same-sex marriage in 2009, six years before the 2015 Supreme Court ruling making same-sex marriage a national...