Washington D.C. is one of my favorite cities. I’ve visited countless times, and there’s always something new to discover. The city’s got so much to offer—amazing diversity, people from all over the world, and a ton of things to see and do. You can find incredible bars, top-notch restaurants, and beautiful natural spots.
That said, there’s one big downside to the city: it’s expensive. With all the politicians, diplomats, and lobbyists, the prices for meals, hotels, transportation, and parking can quickly add up.
But don’t worry! There are plenty of free activities in D.C. for budget-conscious travelers. Thanks to all the national monuments, parks, and museums, you can experience a lot of the city without spending a dime. Here are some of the best free things to do in Washington D.C.:
1. Visit the Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is a must-see. You can attend public sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays (from October to April) if you line up early enough. The sessions are free, but they’re on a first-come, first-served basis. They also offer free 30-minute lectures that explain how the court works, along with films and special exhibitions. It’s a great way to get a feel for how the highest court in the land functions.
2. Tour the Capitol Building
You can take a free tour of the Capitol Building, which runs every 10 minutes throughout the day. You can book your spot online in advance or grab same-day tickets starting at 8:30 AM. There are also specialized tours focused on topics like civil rights and women’s suffrage that take place once a day. If you’re interested in seeing Congress in action, you can also request free passes to sit in the gallery.
3. Explore the Smithsonian Museums
The Smithsonian Institution offers a collection of museums, galleries, and research centers, all free to visit. While the more popular ones may require you to book a time slot in advance, there’s still plenty to explore without any cost. If you’re into aviation, don’t miss the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, which also has an IMAX theater.
4. Visit the Monuments on the National Mall
The National Mall is full of iconic monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. You can spend days just walking around the mall, taking in the sights. Some other notable spots include:
- The Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, which has beautiful gardens and waterfalls.
- The Korean War Veterans Memorial, featuring statues and a reflective pool.
- The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which is a powerful tribute to those who served in Vietnam.
- The World War II Memorial, honoring those who served in the war with stunning architecture and fountains.
5. Visit the National Zoo
The National Zoo is another free gem. Home to over 1,800 animals, including pandas, elephants, and lemurs, it’s a great place to spend a few hours—especially with kids. Just be sure to book your entry pass online in advance.
6. See the White House
The White House is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Although tours can be a bit tricky to arrange, they’re worth it if you can swing it. The tours are self-guided and last around 45 minutes, so make sure you bring only the essentials since they have strict rules about what you can bring inside.
7. Take a Free Ranger Walk at the Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial deserves its own spot on this list. It’s one of the most beautiful monuments in D.C., with a massive statue of Abraham Lincoln and incredible views of the Reflecting Pool and the Capitol. Every weekend, you can join a free 30-minute Ranger Walk to learn more about the memorial and its significance.
8. Browse the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is a must-visit for art lovers. The gallery features everything from classic European works to modern art. It’s one of the most visited art museums in the U.S., and for good reason. Don’t forget to check out the six-acre sculpture garden outside. In the summer, they host free jazz concerts every Friday evening—just be sure to grab your tickets early.
Washington D.C. might be pricey, but with all these free activities, you don’t have to break the bank to have an amazing time. There’s more than enough to keep you busy for several days, all without spending a penny!
