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.

There’s no shortage of free things to do in DC with kids, as well as family-friendly events that won’t cost a cent. From kid-friendly attractions to cool activities that the entire family can enjoy, the nation’s capital is a great destination for a vacation any time of the year. We’ve put together...

The Smithsonian Castle: Gateway to Museums & History

Brit benefactor and an American castle For a man who never set foot in Washington, DC, French-born, British-raised James Smithson has had a huge impact on the city. The British scientist (1765-1829), an illegitimate son of a Duke, left his considerable fortune to a nephew with the stipulation that...

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...

Visiting the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC

What and where is the Museum of the Bible? As soon as you enter the Museum of the Bible through its 40-foot bronze doors, its majesty is undeniable. The grand lobby is long and awe-inspiring, with a digital display on the ceiling that rotates through colorful designs throughout the day. Upon your...

Visiting the Library of Congress in Washington, DC

What and where is the Library of Congress? The Library of Congress is housed across three buildings on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC: the Thomas Jefferson Building (10 1st Street SE), the James Madison Memorial Building (101 Independence Avenue SE) and the John Adams Building (2nd Street SE,...

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...

Visiting the National Archives Building & Museum in Washington, DC

What and where is the National Archives Building & Museum? The National Archives & Records Administration Building and Museum is located on Constitution Avenue NW, between 7th and 9th Streets, just north of the National Mall . The building houses both a museum and the National Archives and...

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...

Visiting the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC

What and where is the National Gallery of Art? The National Gallery of Art and its gorgeous Sculpture Garden (which features an ice rink in the winter time) are located on Constitution Avenue NW between 3rd and 9th Streets NW. Through its East and West Buildings, the museum preserves, collects and...

Visiting the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, DC

Where and what is the Jefferson Memorial? The location and architecture of the Thomas 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...