25 Free Things to Do in Washington DC

The National Mall is the first stop on most sightseeing tours of Washington DC and most of the attractions are free. With dozens of museums and historic sites, there are plenty of things to see and do to keep the whole family occupied.

The National Zoo is set within the beautiful Rock Creek National Park and is a part of the Smithsonian Institution. Admission is FREE! The attraction is one of the most kid-friendly places to visit in the nation’s capital where you can see more than 400 different species of animals.

There's plenty of free festivals and events going on in Washington, DC throughout the year. See monthly event calendars for details. (Please note that calendars include some festivals with fees) You'll also find free summer concerts throughout the DC capital region. During the holiday season, there are a variety of free holiday events around the DC area. The Washington, DC area also hosts several parades throughout the year.

Washington DC’s premier concert hall offers a free performance every evening at 6 p.m. Programs include performances by the National Symphony Orchestra, jazz musicians, poets, dance troupes and more.

Explore the artwork or enjoy an educational program, lecture, guided tour, film, or concerts. Take a walk outside and visit the National Gallery of Art's Sculpture Garden to take in art and some fresh air.

More than 330,000 American servicemen as well as many famous Americans are buried at the 624 acre national cemetery. Visitors can walk the grounds for free or take a guided tour bus for $7.50. Be sure to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

Rock Creek Park is an urban park that offers an opportunity to explore the beauty of nature. Visitors can picnic, hike, bike, rollerblade, play tennis, fish, horseback ride, listen to a concert, or attend programs with a park ranger. Children can participate in a wide range of special programs at Rock Creek Park, including planetarium shows, animal talks, exploratory hikes, crafts, and junior ranger programs.

The Supreme Court is in session October through April and visitors may view sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Seating is limited and given on a first-come, first-serve basis. Mondays through Fridays, throughout the year, visitors can explore exhibits, see a 25-minute film on the Supreme Court, and participate in a variety of educational programs.

The walking tour company gives free tours of Washington DC (gratuity recommended) with a fast paced and engaging presentation. Hear unique and legendary stories about George Washington's love for dogs, the indestructibility of the President's car, why French women loved Thomas Jefferson and much more.