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Things to do in Washington DC

Washington DC is one of the world's great capital cities where the vast majority of world-class museums and monuments are completely free, making it exceptionally kind to budget travelers. From the Smithsonian's 19 museums to iconic memorials, you can spend a full week here without paying a single admission fee.

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Why go to Washington DC

  • Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

    Walk beneath the actual Apollo 11 command module and a Wright Brothers Flyer in the world's most-visited museum, free.

  • The National Mall & Memorials

    A two-mile outdoor gallery of democracy featuring the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Wall, and Washington Monument at no cost.

  • United States Capitol

    Tour the beating heart of American democracy, including the stunning Rotunda, with free tickets reserved online.

  • Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

    Ogle the 45-carat Hope Diamond and an eight-ton elephant in the rotunda, free and endlessly fascinating.

  • Library of Congress

    The world's largest library stuns with its ornate Great Hall and rotating exhibits of rare Americana, all free to explore.

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Good to know in Washington DC

  • The DC Metro is clean and reliable, a 7-Day Unlimited pass costs $58 and covers all sightseeing zones; tap your SmarTrip card and avoid single-trip paper fares which cost more.
  • Tipping is standard at 18-20% in sit-down restaurants; counter-service and food trucks don't require tips though screens may prompt you.
  • Washington DC tap water is safe, clean, and good-tasting, bring a reusable bottle and refill at any of the Smithsonian museums' water stations to save $3-5 per day.
  • Many Smithsonian museums and the National Gallery of Art are free every single day, but some monuments offer free ranger programs on weekends, check nps.gov/nama for the schedule.

Trip essentials

Rental car

Reach day trips and beaches the buses do not, on your own schedule.

Tours & activities

Skip-the-line tickets and day trips, often cheaper booked ahead.

Data eSIM

Maps and rides the minute you land, no roaming bills.

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Things to do in Washington DC: top sights, costs and free ideas | Washington DC, United States