26 Free Things to do in Washington DC
Washington, DC is all about “FREE”dom. It can take weeks just to visit the National Mall’s historic memorials and tour the Smithsonian’s 16 free museums and galleries.
But what many visitors may not realize is these national treasures only scratch the surface. Walk the streets of historic Georgetown, visit the National Zoo, take in a session of Congress, or tour the White House.
We guarantee Washington’s charms are endless, educational and exciting. One piece of advice: Bring comfortable shoes.
1. Saturday morning at the National
Attend a free performance on Saturday Morning at the National Theatre. In order to ensure you will have a seat make sure to get there 30 minutes prior to the show. Shows start at 9:30 and 11 each Saturday.
2. The Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage
Free performances are offered daily on this stage for free. Performances start at 6pm and it is recommended to arrive early to ensure you have a spot.
3. Meridian hill Park
This park is free to visit anytime. If you are interested in attending a free performance while at the park come on Sundays between 3 and 9 pm to listen to a drum circle. If you are musically inclined to play the drums feel free to bring your own set and join in!
Meridian Hill Park| Photo by ncindc
4. National Gallery of Art
Enjoy free live music Sundays at 6:30pm. All different types of music are featured throughout the year so check to see what is playing while you are in town. In order to ensure a seat arrive at 6pm, doors will close at 6:30pm.
5. National Museum of the American Indian
It is free to visit the museum during normal operating hours. Check to see if any festivals or storytellings are going on before you visit. Hours are 10 am to 5:30 pm.
6. Rock Creek Park
Visit this park and experience the only planetarium that is operated by the national park service. This park is free for anyone to visit year round.
7. Bureau of Engraving and Printing
Visit the Bureau to learn about the different processes used to create US currency. Tours are 40 minutes long and start every 15 minutes between 9 am and 7 pm. If you plan on bringing a large group it is recommended you make reservations for your tour.
8. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
This museum pays tribute to all the advancements made in the fields of air and space. Different exhibits are featured throughout the year, so if you are interested in a specific exhibit see if its running while you will be in town. The museum is open from 10am to 5:30 pm everyday.
9. Friendship Park (Turtle Park)
Visiting this park is always free and its a great destination for children. The park features a large sandbox that is always readily equipped with toys for children to use.
10. Lincoln Memorial
Visit this iconic memorial while you are in DC. Admission is always free, however occasional the memorial is closed for private use.
Lincoln Memorial| Photo by chadh-flickr
11. Arlington National Cemetery
It is free to visit this military cemetery. If you time your visit right you may be able to see the changing of the guards surrounding the tomb of the unknowns.
12. National Postal Museum
It is free to visit this museum any day of the year from 10 am to 5:30 pm. If you are interested in the history of the country this is a great stop to learn about how the different stamps throughout the years have represented history.
13. Union Station
This is one of the most famous attractions to visit in DC and its completely free! Have fun strolling through the shops and looking at the architecture.
14. WWII Memorial
The memorial is free to visit year round and is open 24/7. It was completed recently in 2004 and has been created mostly through donations.
15. Gravelly Point
Visit this park to enjoy watching the planes take off from Reagan National Airport.
Gravelly Point| Photo by stinkygrinch
16. Mexican Cultural Institute
Come to the Mexican Cultural Institute to enjoy many different exhibits by Mexican artists. It is always free to visit and is open Monday through Friday from 10 am to 1 pm and again from 3 to six pm.
17. Natural Geographic Museum
This museum offers a constantly changing array of exhibits throughout the year. Almost all exhibits are free to visit throughout the year. Check the website to see what will be in town while you are visiting.
18. Lunder Conservation Center
Visit this center to gain an inside view of how work is preserved. Staff from different museums work here to help preserve different works throughout the year. The Center is open from 11:30 am to 7 pm daily.
19. Old Stone House
This is the oldest standing building in Washington D.C. dating back to 1765. It is open to visit Wednesday through Sunday from noon until 5 pm.
20. The Phillips Collection
This was Americas first collection of modern art. The collection on display is permanent.
21. National Museum of Women in the Arts
Visit this museum to experience the first museum in the world that’s goal is to recognize the artwork of female artists. It is free to visit on the first Sunday of each month.
22. United States Holocaust Memorial Musuem
The museum’s goal is to educate the public as to the reality of the Holocaust along with helping to prevent another tragedy in the future. It is free to visit throughout the year, however it is recommended to get your passes early during the busy season.
23. Tour the Three Houses of Government
Take time to go through the different houses of the U.S. Government. Tours are free but must be scheduled in advance.
24. Old Town, Alexandria
You can go on a walking tour of the historical town of Alexandria. There are things such as colonial houses and churches to see.
Old Town Alexandria| Photo by krizsa
25. White House
Visit the Presidents residence and take a free tour. You may even get a chance to see him at work.
26. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
Here you can visit the last marsh in Washington D.C. There are many different varieties of water flowers and plants to see.
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