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.
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.
Make it real
Add your details for real flights and an exact budget you can share.
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.