Free Things to Do in Washington, DC

10 places

Explore the cultural richness of Washington, DC, through a curated selection of free experiences that celebrate art, history, and nature.

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden and Ice Skating Rink photo

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden and Ice Skating Rink

Discovering the only da Vinci painting in the Americas among a vast collection of over 3,000 pieces makes this gallery truly exceptional.

Library of Congress International Collections photo

Library of Congress International Collections

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Witnessing the grandeur of its Gilded Age design and exploring Thomas Jefferson’s remarkable collection makes my visits unforgettable.

National Museum of African American History and Culture photo

National Museum of African American History and Culture

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Exploring the only museum dedicated to African American culture enriched my understanding of history through compelling exhibits and family-friendly experiences.

Capital Building Columns circa 1837

Friends of the National Arboretum

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4.5

Amidst the 446 acres, the stunning Capitol Columns and vibrant Bonsai Museum create a serene escape for nature and photography enthusiasts.

The Blue Room

The White House

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4.0

Admiring the White House offers a glimpse into American history and politics, with elegant architecture that captivates every visitor.

Lincoln Memorial-Entrance 1 photo

Lincoln Memorial-Entrance 1

Experiencing the grandeur of the neoclassical design and reflecting on MLK’s historic speech creates a profound connection to American history.

Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial photo

Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial

Honoring the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., this memorial's granite statue and inspirational quotes make it a profound tribute to civil rights.

National Msm of the American Indian photo

National Msm of the American Indian

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Uncovering rich Indigenous cultures through diverse exhibits, I appreciate the hands-on artisan experiences like basket weaving and the tipi display.

Exit side of the building

Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum

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3.5

Delighting in the rich history of aviation and space, I roam among iconic artifacts like the Apollo 11 Command Module and touch a Moon rock.

National Museum of Natural History photo

National Museum of Natural History

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Unearthing treasures, the National Museum of Natural History boasts 126 million specimens, stunning fossils, and engaging hands-on exhibits.