What’s in your wallet? Meh – who cares? Thanks to the best free and nearly free things to do in Washington DC, you can find countless ways to pass the time and save a dime. From monuments to museums, public parks to live performances, an extraordinary number of the capital’s sights and events are free of charge, or available to enjoy for next to nothing. So don a pair of good walking shoes, charge your phone for all those photos you’ll be taking, and bring some water: The best free and nearly free things to do in Washington DC await you and your family’s enjoyment!
The National Mall The East Wing The National Gallery The National Cathedral
| Name | Location | Description |
| National Mall Monuments Tours | Between Independence and Constitution Aves., and the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial | Whether you’re a history buff or not, a tour of the monuments on the National Mall is a good place to start. Visitors will be pleased to find that National Parks Service rangers give free, guided tours of everything from the Lincoln Memorial to the Vietnam Memorial. Some of these programs are centered around a given theme, others are offered by bike or at night. In all cases, you’ll find an option that suits your pace and preference. |
| Smithsonian Institution | 600 Maryland Ave. SW | While you’re roaming the Mall, be sure to stop by to take a gander at the original Star-Spangled Banner that inspired the penning of the National Anthem and Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz at the National History Museum. Alternately, you could go see The Spirit of St. Louis at the Air and Space Museum as well. Both are operated by the Smithsonian Institution, along with six other museums in the city, as well as the National Zoo, which is free to visit as well. |
| East Wing of the White House | 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. | Ever wanted to see the Red Room or the Blue Room? Or the State Dining Room? It takes a little planning by contacting your Congressional representative, but tours of the East Wing and Residence of the White House are free to the public. Photos are allowed and encouraged, especially if you should land an unexpected photo-op with the current resident, as a group of schoolkids recently did: A y-u-u-uge moment indeed. |
| National Arboretum | 3501 New York Ave. NE
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You don’t have to be an avid gardener to appreciate the variety of plants and natural areas set on 446 acres here. Get your green on with a tour by bus, car, bicycle, or if you’re in tip-top shape, by foot. Check the website for specific events such as plant swaps, educational outreach and family-oriented program which run on a routine basis. |
| National Gallery of Art | 6th and Constitution Ave. NW
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There’s something to be found here to suit every taste, from Da Vinci and Botticelli paintings to Alexander Calder’s fanciful mobiles. After admiring the artwork, make a point to chill at Jazz in the Garden, the ever-popular free summer concert series held on Fridays in the sculpture garden. |
| National Cathedral | 3101 Wisconsin Ave. NW | Deemed one of the longest-running construction projects, National Cathedral has a storied history as the site of presidential inauguration services and funerals, and boasts some stunning architecture. Wander around gazing at features such as the rose window, the Space Window, the “Yuppie” gargoyle, and the Bishop gargoyle, carved by Italian stonemasons. Or pop in on a worship service or organ recital. Behind-the-scenes tours are also available—for $27. |
| D.C. Circulator | Multiple Locations | Give your barking dogs a rest by hopping on the DC Circulator. The bus system was put into place in 2005, and while it isn’t technically a tour bus, like New York’s Gray Line, it covers all the major areas of DC — Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, Anacostia, Woodley Park, and so on. Choose any or all of the routes available and get a great overview of the city while someone else drives. Best of all, the ride only costs $1. |
| Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Free For All | Sidney Harmon Hall, 610 F St. | How about a night at the theater—gratis? Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Free For All has offered a classic by the Bard of Stratford every summer free of charge since 1991. From August 15–27, get swept away with the tragedy about love and jealousy in Othello. Beware the green-eyed monster! |
| Rock Creek Park | 5200 Glover Rd. NW | Feeling outdoorsy? Situated across 1,754 acres in the heart of the city, you’ll find numerous ways of getting a little fresh air and exercise here. Take a hike on the park’s trails, sign up for a ranger-led tour, or pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery. Boat rentals, horseback riding, golf, and tennis are other options, but you’ll have to fork over some dough for those. |
| Millennium Center Stage | John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F St. NW | Circus acts, folk music concerts, choir recitals, theatre: The performances at Millennium Stage come in many shapes and sizes, but all are free and open to the public. Check the Kennedy Center’s website for the schedule of events. |
Cheat Sheet:
Nancy Oakley cut her teeth as a travel editor and writer for in-flight magazines, including Delta Sky and US Airways Magazine. She currently explores the world as senior editor of a local arts-and-culture monthly and its sister publication, a home-and-garden quarterly.
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