Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!

E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!

Discover

🏛️ Things To Do In Washington DC For Free 🏛️

18 items

Angela Agranoff

Discover the best of Washington, DC—without spending a dime! From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this list features must-see free activities. Get inspired to explore history, art, politics, and culture—all for free.

Map

Sections

Outdoor Activities in DC For Free

Museums in DC For Free

🇺🇸🎟️ Free Things to Do in Washington, DC

Outdoor Activities in DC For Free

Explore Washington, DC’s best free outdoor adventures! From scenic walks and iconic monuments to peaceful parks and historic sites, this board is your go-to guide for enjoying the nation's capital without spending a dime. Perfect for solo travelers, ...

Home to giant pandas, lions, and hundreds of species.

Smithsonian National Zoological Park

See iconic monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and World War II Memorial.

National Mall

Beautiful sculptures, architecture, and memorials to explore.

Monuments & Memorials | Washington DC

A peaceful escape with trails, picnic spots, and even a historic mill.

Rock Creek Park

Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and watch the Changing of the Guard.

Arlington National Cemetery

A beautiful spot to get your steps in, especially during cherry blossom season.

Tidal Basin

Featuring contemporary and modern art, the Hirshhorn showcases bold exhibitions and an outdoor sculpture garden.

Hirshhorn Museum

Museums in DC For Free

Washington, DC is home to some of the most iconic museums in the world. From awe-inspiring art and space exploration to American history and culture, this guide highlights the top museums where you can learn, explore, and be inspired without spending...

Enjoy masterpieces by da Vinci, Monet, Van Gogh, and more.

National Gallery of Art

Discover legendary aircraft, touch a moon rock, and explore the history of flight from the Wright brothers to modern space missions. Great for all ages, this museum brings science and history to life in an unforgettable way.

National Air and Space Museum: Homepage

See the Hope Diamond, towering dinosaur skeletons, and fascinating exhibits on oceans, animals, and more.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Home to iconic treasures like the Star-Spangled Banner, First Ladies' gowns, and presidential artifacts. It’s a deep dive into the people, inventions, and moments that shaped America.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History

Museum that explores African American life, history, and culture through engaging exhibits and storytelling. Timed-entry passes are free but required.

National Museum of African American History and Culture

Located just outside DC, this museum honors the service and sacrifice of American soldiers with interactive exhibits and powerful personal stories.

National Museum of the United States Army

These two museums share a historic building and feature an amazing collection of American portraiture and fine art. It’s a perfect blend of history, culture, and creativity.

National Portrait Gallery - Smithsonian Institution

An educational experience that honors the victims of the Holocaust. The permanent exhibition is free, but advance timed-entry passes are recommended.

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

🇺🇸🎟️ Free Things to Do in Washington, DC

Discover the best of Washington, DC—without spending a dime! From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this list features must-see free activities perfect for solo travelers, families, and budget-conscious adventurers. Get inspired to explore history, ar...

🏛️ Tour the U.S. Capitol Building – Reserve a free tour and explore the stunning architecture and historic chambers of Congress.

Book a Tour | U.S. Capitol - Visitor Center

🏰 Visit the White House (Outside View or Tour Request) – View it from the North or South Lawn, or request a tour in advance through your member of Congress.

White House Visitor Center

The world’s largest library, featuring grand architecture and historic exhibitions.

Visiting the Library | Library of Congress