Meetings
Back
Back
search search search search search search
search
Home
A snowy scene of a downtown street leading up to the National Archives in Washington, DC.

What's Open in Washington, DC During a Government Shutdown

Share this

Find the latest status updates on attractions, museums, theater, festivals, events and more

Washington, DC is open for business

The nation's capital is ready to welcome you even during a government shutdown (check out our guide to DC during a shutdown). While some federally funded attractions and sites may offer limited access, daily life in DC remains active, full of museums, restaurants and can't-miss things to do, including the city's celebrations of America's 250th anniversary.

Shutdown Update

As of Jan. 31, 2026, a shutdown is underway, but unlike with past shutdowns, the impacts to visitors are limited, with many major attractions funded through Sept. 30 and remaining open. One major attraction that is closed due to the shutdown is the National Archives, however Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo, the National Gallery of Art and National Park Service sites remain operating as normal. Note: Some temporary closures may currently be weather-related rather than shutdown-related, due to the recent snowstorm. Travelers should continue checking this page for more updates. 

Find things to do this week, weekend and month, plus guides to the best things to do during a shutdown and attractions ready to welcome visitors.

 

What's Open (most attractions)

Museums, Attractions & Tours

 

Museums & Attractions

Smithsonian museums

 

National Park Service sites, monuments and memorials

 

Other museums, attractions and cultural institutes

 

Tours

 

Theater, Performances, Sports & Games

 

The show must go on: Washington, DC's theater scene is alive and well during a shutdown. Most venues do not receive federal funds.
 

Theaters & Playhouses

 

Music & Concert Venues

 

Sports & Games

 

Parks, Gardens & Recreation

 

Open-air national parks like the National Mall and Rock Creek Park will remain accessible during the shutdown. With NPS being funded through Sept. 30, regular operations are expected during this shutdown. Learn more about DC's parks and gardens and find a list below of what is currently open.
 

 

Restaurants

 

Places to eat and drink remain open to the public and unaffected due to the shutdown. Due to the popularity of DC's dining scene, it's always recommended to reserve your table in advance online. Take your pick of award-winning restaurants, high-value spots, budget bites and more. 

 

Shopping

 

Shopping and retail attractions affected by the shutdown are limited to museum gift shops that are closed. Shop around the District at Black-owned businesses, made-in-DC shops and LGBTQ-owned enterprises and others. 

 

Hotels

 

DC-area hotels are open and ready to welcome guests. You can also take advantage of special deals and peruse properties that are ideal for sports fans, history buffs, families with kids and guests looking for cool places to stay.

 

Transportation

 

Metrorail and Metrobus will operate as usual during a federal government shutdown. Travel Metro easily with touch-free SmarTrip service for iPhone and Apple Watch devices, becoming the first rail system in the U.S. to offer a full service, touch-free payment option at every single stop.
 

What's Closed

It's possible certain staff-led tours, visitor centers and other federal staffing delays may be occur. 

Check here to learn the latest closed statuses.

Partner Content
Partner Content