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Free Things to Do in DC 🇺🇸
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items Exploring Washington, DC, doesn’t have to cost a thing! From scenic parks and trails to museums and farmers markets, here are some of my favorite free activities in the city.
Map
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Outdoor Activities
Smithsonian Museums in Washington, D.C. (Free Entry!) 🇺🇸🏛️
Restaurants
Other Food & Drinks
Outdoor Activities
Walk along the iconic stretch lined with monuments and memorials. I love visiting at sunrise or sunset for the best views!
National Mall
A peaceful escape right in the city with hiking trails, picnic spots, and historic sites. Perfect for a nature break!
Rock Creek Park
One of the best in the city, filled with fresh, local goods and a vibrant atmosphere.
FRESHFARM Dupont Circle Market
A beautiful indoor and outdoor collection of plants from around the world. It’s one of my favorite spots for a relaxing stroll!
United States Botanic Garden
A scenic, easy loop trail with boardwalks and views of the Potomac. I love how peaceful and hidden it feels!
Trails - Theodore Roosevelt Island (U.S. National Park Service)
Smithsonian Museums in Washington, D.C. (Free Entry!) 🇺🇸🏛️
All Smithsonian museums are free to enter, but some may require timed-entry passes. Here are five must-visit spots:
Home to the Hope Diamond, dinosaur fossils, and incredible nature exhibits. No tickets required—just walk in!
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Explore historic aircraft, space shuttles, and moon landers. Free, but timed-entry tickets are required online.
National Air and Space Museum: Homepage
A stunning collection of American art and portraits of historical figures. No tickets needed, and it’s open late!
National Portrait Gallery - Smithsonian Institution
A powerful museum showcasing Black history, culture, and contributions to America. Free, but timed-entry passes are required online.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
A modern and contemporary art museum featuring famous exhibitions and an outdoor sculpture garden. No tickets required!
Hirshhorn Museum
Restaurants
Located at The Wharf, Bistro Du Jour is an all-day Parisian café offering traditional French dishes like Coq Au Vin Rouge, Croque Monsieur, French Onion Soup, Steak Frites, and Foie Gras. They also feature an extensive selection of bubbly and a curat...
Bistro Du Jour - KNEAD Hospitality + Design
Bar Taco is a coastal-inspired restaurant known for its fresh tacos and vibrant atmosphere. They offer a variety of tacos, rice bowls, and salads, with options for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. The restaurant is designed to evoke a beachy, relax...
the wharf - bartaco
Other Food & Drinks
Coffee & Desserts 🍨
Located at 605 Wharf Street SW, Pitango offers authentic Italian gelato made with organic milk from grass-fed cows and fresh fruit sorbets. They also serve a robust craft coffee menu alongside house-baked croissants, cookies, and pastries. The shop f...
Pitango Gelato & Coffee, Penn Quarter
A D.C. staple, Compass Coffee serves smooth, well-balanced blends that are perfect for starting the day or a mid-day pick-me-up. I love how their coffee is always fresh, locally roasted, and gives that perfect bold but not bitter taste!
Compass Coffee