things to do in washington dc for free

Washington D.C. is a city filled with history, culture, and entertainment, and you don’t have to break the bank to experience it. Here are some things to do in Washington D.C. for free:

1. Visit the National Mall: The National Mall is a large public park in the heart of the city, stretching from the Lincoln Memorial to the United States Capitol Building. You can walk along the mall, visit the memorials, and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
2. Explore the Smithsonian Museums: The Smithsonian Institution is a collection of 19 museums, galleries, and the National Zoo, and admission is free to all of them. Some popular museums include the National Museum of Natural History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of American History.
3. Visit the National Archives: The National Archives is home to some of the country’s most important documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Admission is free, and you can see the documents up close.
4. Walk through the Tidal Basin: The Tidal Basin is a beautiful lake in the heart of the city, surrounded by famous cherry blossom trees. You can walk around the basin, rent a paddle boat, or simply sit and enjoy the views.
5. Visit the United States Botanic Garden: The United States Botanic Garden is a beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a variety of plants and flowers from around the world. Admission is free, and you can take a self-guided tour of the gardens.
6. Attend a free outdoor concert or movie: During the summer months, many parks in Washington D.C. host free outdoor concerts and movie screenings. You can check the schedules for the National Mall, the Kennedy Center, and other parks to see what’s playing.
7. Visit the National Gallery of Art: The National Gallery of Art is a world-class art museum with a collection of Western European and American art from the 13th century to the present. Admission is free, and you can take a self-guided tour of the galleries.
8. Take a tour of the White House: While you’ll need to request tickets in advance, tours of the White House are free and offer a unique glimpse into the history and architecture of the building.
9. Visit the National Museum of the American Indian: The National Museum of the American Indian is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Native Americans. Admission is free, and you can explore the exhibits and learn about the diverse cultures of Native American communities.
10. Explore the Georgetown Waterfront: The Georgetown Waterfront is a beautiful area along the Potomac River, featuring shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the city. You can walk along the waterfront, grab a bite to eat, or simply sit and enjoy the views.
11. Visit the National Zoo: The National Zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution and is home to over 1,800 animals from around the world. Admission is free, and you can take a self-guided tour of the zoo.
12. Take a hike at Rock Creek Park: Rock Creek Park is a large urban park in Washington D.C. that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the city. Admission is free, and you can explore the park on your own.
13. Visit the National Building Museum: The National Building Museum is a museum dedicated to the history and architecture of buildings. Admission is free, and you can explore the exhibits and learn about the art and science of building design.
14. Attend a free lecture or event at the Library of Congress: The Library of Congress is a world-class research library that hosts a variety of free lectures and events throughout the year. You can check the schedule to see what’s happening during your visit.
15. Explore the Adams Morgan neighborhood: Adams Morgan is a vibrant neighborhood in Washington D.C. that’s known for its eclectic shops, restaurants, and nightlife. You can walk along the streets, grab a bite to eat, or simply soak up the atmosphere.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Washington D.C. for free. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a great time exploring the city without breaking the bank!