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 National Museum of African Art in Washington, DC

What is the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art and where is it? The National Museum of African Art is located on Independence Avenue SW 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 total...

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...

Visiting the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum in Washington, DC

What is the Smithsonian Anacostia Community Museum and where is it? Shining a lens on urban life, the Anacostia Community Museum examines, documents and interprets the impact of historical and contemporary social issues on communities. However, the museum didn't always focus on global communities,...

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 the U.S. Bureau of Engraving & Printing in Washington, DC

What and where is the U.S. Bureau of Engraving & Printing? The U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing , founded in 1862, produces Federal Reserve Notes (also known as paper money, or U.S. dollars) for the Federal Reserve, our country’s central bank (note that coins are made by the United States...

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, including the National Zoo . From the origins of man at the Natural History Museum to the future of space...

Free Things to Do: Off the Beaten Path in Washington, DC

Of all the free things to do in Washington, DC, many are offbeat and unusual, but essential sites to see all the same. These hidden treasures should be on everyone’s DC bucket list. So, survey our unique things to do below and take your DC exploration off the beaten path without having to pay a...

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...

Which Attractions & Museums in Washington, DC Require Tickets?

Many of Washington, DC's major attractions are open to the public and do not require tickets, including the Smithsonian museums , the Smithsonian National Zoo , the National Gallery of Art , and the monuments and memorials on the National Mall . You can buy tickets for some of Washington, DC's most...

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...