things to do in dc for free

Washington D.C. is a city filled with history, museums, and exciting attractions that can be enjoyed without spending a fortune. Here are some free things to do in D.C.:

1. Visit the Smithsonian Museums: The Smithsonian Institution is home to 19 museums, galleries, and the National Zoo. All of these are free and open to the public, making it an excellent place to spend a day (or several) exploring.
2. Explore the National Mall and Memorial Parks: The National Mall is home to many iconic landmarks, including the Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial.
3. United States Botanic Garden: This beautiful garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a stunning variety of plants and flowers from around the world.
4. Take a stroll through Georgetown: Georgetown is a charming neighborhood filled with historic homes, upscale shops, and picturesque waterfront views.
5. National Archives: Home to some of the country’s most important documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
6. Tidal Basin: A picturesque lake with famous cherry blossom trees surrounding it, offering a beautiful walking path and stunning views of the city.
7. Attend a performance at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage: The Kennedy Center offers free performances every day at 6 pm, featuring a wide range of music, dance, and theater.
8. Visit the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden: This beautiful garden features modern and contemporary sculpture amidst beautiful landscapes and walking paths.
9. Walk through the Capital Building Visitor Center: Learn about the history of the U.S. Capitol Building and its significance in American democracy.
10. Attend a festival or event: D.C. hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Smithsonian Folklife Festival, and the Fourth of July Celebration.
11. Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture: While timed-entry tickets are usually required, the museum offers free admission on weekdays, and tickets can be reserved online.
12. Explore the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens: This beautiful park features a stunning variety of aquatic plants, including water lilies and lotus flowers.
13. Take a hike at Rock Creek Park: This beautiful park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views of the city.
14. Visit the National Air and Space Museum: Home to some of the most iconic aircraft and spacecraft in history, including the Wright Brothers’ Flyer and the Apollo 11 command module.
15. Attend a free outdoor concert or movie: During the summer months, many parks in D.C. offer free outdoor concerts and movie screenings.

Remember to check the attraction’s website or call ahead to confirm hours of operation and availability, as some attractions may have limited hours or require timed-entry tickets.