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.

Top Spots to Photograph the Cherry Blossoms in Washington, DC

Expert photographers will tell you, taking a captivating cherry blossom shot requires the right scene. Another thing they'd tell you is to take a picture at the right moment. For the blossoms, that's during peak bloom, which typically occurs around early April, but in the past has occurred as early...

An Overview of the Smithsonian Institution Museums in Washington, DC

Museums farther than the eye can see Collectively called the Smithsonian Institution, the world-renowned museum and research complex consists of 17 museums and galleries in Washington, DC, as well as the National Zoo . From the origins of man at the Natural History Museum to the future of space...

Visiting the Jefferson Memorial

Where and what is the Jefferson Memorial? The location and architecture of the Jefferson Memorial make it stand out among DC’s amazing array of monuments and memorials. Designed by John Russell Pope in 1925, the memorial resembles the Pantheon in Rome, an adaptation of Neoclassical architecture...

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

The Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture is a powerful, history-making addition to the National Mall . Admission to the museum is free, but has been in extremely high demand since the facility opened its doors. Timed passes are required to enter. Same-day passes (up...

Visiting the Marine Corps War Memorial

The U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial 's world-famous statue, which is based on the iconic photograph taken by Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal, depicts the six soldiers who raised of the second American flag at Iwo Jima in the Japanese Volcano Islands on February 23, 1945, signifying the...

100 Free & Almost Free Things to Do: Off the Beaten Path

Not many cities offer as many amazing and free things to do as Washington, DC. From the National Mall to far-flung neighborhoods, we want to be your guide to free and nearly free activities throughout the city. If you’re interested in experiencing some of the lesser-known things to do in DC,...

Visiting the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

Mother Teresa, Pope Francis, Pope John Paul II and other religious figures have visited the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception , paying tribute at the largest Roman Catholic Church in North America, and the 10th largest in the world. With its dozens of chapels devoted to the Virgin Mary,...

Visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art

What is the National Museum of African Art and where is it? The Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is located on Independence Avenue SW in DC, on the National Mall . The museum possesses the largest publicly held collection of African art in the United States, with roughly 12,000 objects in...

100 Free & Almost Free Things to Do: Winter in DC

There are plenty of awesome wintertime recreation options in Washington, DC that won't cost you a cent. Explore the winter wonderland that is DC with festive holiday displays, unforgettable events, memorable museum experiences and much more.

8 Must-See Monuments & Memorials on the National Mall

According to the American Institute of Architects, half of Americans’ top 12 favorite architectural gems line the National Mall . There’s no denying the significance of the Mall for its symbols to American history and for its uniquely designed marvels. Check them all out here, then it's time to...