Brimming with iconic landmarks, neighborhoods, and attractions, Washington, D.C., dazzles. With an abundance of free things to see and do, this very walkable city along the Potomac River is a savvy, budget-conscious traveler’s dream.
From well-known museums to hidden gems and everything in between, these free experiences are sure to inspire your next D.C. adventure. Washington, D.C., has a wealth of free events happening all of the time, refer to the Visit Washington, DC Events Calendar for the latest and greatest. As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Lush, Manicured Gardens
Family-friendly gardens with benches, fountains, and picturesque plantings are sprinkled throughout the nation’s capital. Find green havens tucked along the perimeter of the National Mall, like the Pollinator Garden, a living classroom dancing with birds, butterflies and bees — sure to please kids and adults alike.
An intimate garden with winding brick pathways, Mary Livingston Ripley Garden educates and inspires through unique thematic plant features. Behind the Smithsonian “Castle,” you’ll find the four-acre Enid A. Haupt Garden, home to three distinct, enchanting garden areas. At Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens, part of the nearby U.S. Botanic Garden, relax around the soaring cast-iron fountain created by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi (of Statue of Liberty fame).
About three miles northeast of the Capitol Building, the U.S. National Arboretum lies in Northeast D.C. Covering 450 acres, the arboretum has 13 public gardens showcasing an incredible variety of flora. Don’t miss the nation’s first museum dedicated to bonsai, the National Bonsai and Penjing Museum, and the towering National Capitol Columns.
Iconic Monuments Along the National Mall
Allow ample time (and wear comfy shoes) to explore the landmarks anchoring the National Mall, a treat to wander, filled with monuments and beautiful views. Make your way to the Lincoln Memorial and climb to the top of the stairs for incredible views over the shimmering Reflecting Pool. The cherry-tree-lined Tidal Basin is wonderful for a stroll, especially if you’re visiting during the peak spring bloom. You’ll see the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, nestled along the basin, peeking between the trees. Climb its graceful stairs to the top for a bird’s-eye view.
Enjoy the grounds around the Washington Monument and take the elevator with a (free) ticket to the observation deck, 500-feet above the ground. Stroll the five outdoor rooms of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, with its cascading waterfalls and sculpture of FDR and his faithful Scottish terrier, Fala. And at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, you’ll find walls emblazoned with his inspiring quotes and ranger-led tours.
Explore National Parks
Bisecting the city, Rock Creek Park is a popular recreation spot for locals and visitors. This favorite park is comprised of historic sites, picnic areas, playgrounds, hiking trails, a golf course and more to while away an afternoon or a whole day.
Venture to the less-visited Theodore Roosevelt Island on the Potomac River to walk around the nature-rich memorial of the legendary conservationist president. And close by is the Marine Corps War Memorial of soldiers raising a flag at Iwo Jima. The park it sits in is a hidden gem. It has absolutely incredible views over the Potomac and Washington, D.C., especially from the Netherlands Carillon, a bell tower at the park’s peak guarded by two huge stone lions. If you visit in the spring, when the tulip garden in front of the carillon is in full bloom, a riot of color greets you.
The park borders Arlington National Cemetery. Make your way up the hill behind the carillon on Marshall Drive, and on the left is Section 27 of the cemetery. It’s one of the oldest sections, dating to 1864, and the most racially integrated. White and Black service members were interred side-by-side here, and more than 3,800 African American freed people were laid to rest here, as well.
Interactive Learning at The Smithsonian Institution
Delve into educational hands-on activities, masterpiece collections and special exhibits through the Smithsonian, a vast network of 21 free museums and the National Zoo. In the heart of Rock Creek Park, this free zoo is home to a vast array of animals, including elephants, apes and two giant pandas from China.
Many of the museums are located on or around the National Mall, so it is important to plan using online sources. View the imposing jaws of a mega-toothed shark at the National Museum of Natural History. Learn about African American past, present and lasting legacy at The National Museum of African American History & Culture, and take in aviation history and ride-simulators at the beloved Air and Space Museum.
Round out the time with visits to the National Portrait Gallery, where the presidential portraits are featured; the contemporary Hirshhorn; and the nearby National Museum of Asian Art. And steps from the White House, the small-but-mighty Renwick Gallery is housed in a gorgeous historic building with a rotating roster of bold and innovative installations showcasing American art and craft.
Captivating History Comes to Life
Step into the ornate Library of Congress, where anyone can freely obtain a library card, to explore more than 164 million books and manuscripts; rare collections, such as Thomas Jefferson’s library; fascinating exhibits; and presentations, concerts and movies. The Main Reading Room, under its 125-foot dome, delights with ornate details, art and sculpture.
At the National Archives, the nation’s foundational documents are on display. View the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights in the hush of the famed Rotunda.
Immerse yourself in the living history of the city by strolling one of its oldest neighborhoods, Georgetown, filled with classic architecture and cobbled streets. Join a group tour through free, pay-what-you-like D.C. by Foot or use their handy self-guided tour resource.
Transformative Halls of Government
Offering an interactive view of the White House, The People’s House is a cutting-edge educational museum. Using a pre-booked free pass system, the center offers an interactive experience unpacking every facet of the Executive Mansion. Budget time for a tour of the U.S. Capitol — which includes the Crypt, Rotunda and National Statuary Hall — and afterward, stroll the iconic grounds.
When it’s not in session, explore the Supreme Court Building to view rotating exhibitions and public spaces and hear a free 30-minute Courtroom Lecture. Fun fact: When court is in session, the entire building is closed for touring, but it is possible to attend an oral argument (seating is limited).
