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.

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...

Visiting the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

What is the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and where is it? The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is situated on a four-acre site along the National Mall 's Tidal Basin, adjacent to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memoria l and shares a direct line of sight between the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials...

Visiting the Smithsonian Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden

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...

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...

Run, Bike & Exercise Outdoors in Washington, DC

With miles of trails, the National Mall and Rock Creek Park , one of the largest urban parks in the country, the DC region boasts plenty outdoor locations to run, bike or do what the locals do – join a group exercise program. When visiting the District, be sure to check out these scenic spots and...

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

All about the 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 8 million visitors per year, making the National Air and Space complex the most popular museum in the...

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: Spring in Washington, DC

A family-friendly spring break filled with free activities awaits in Washington, DC. The season is headlined by the blooming of cherry blossom trees and the corresponding National Cherry Blossom Festival, but your spring vacation does not have to be limited to that. There are plenty of free things...

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...

Visiting the Vietnam Veterans Memorial

What is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and where is it? The Vietnam Veterans Memorial on the National Mall pays tribute to the brave members of the U.S. Armed Forces who fought in the Vietnam War and were killed or missing in action. The memorial consists of three separate parts: The Three Soldiers...