Free things to do in Washington, D.C.
From Smithsonian museums to moonlit monuments, here’s how to see Washington, D.C. for free.
Edited by Taylor Cahan | January 2, 2026
Washington is a city where many of the most iconic experiences come at no cost. The National Mall and Memorial Parks are open 24 hours a day, and free museums throughout the district offer everything from ancient fossils to modern art. Some Smithsonian sites require free timed-entry passes, so a little planning goes a long way. In this guide, you’ll discover walkable clusters, evening-forward ideas, and a cheat sheet for passes and transit, so you can make the most of every moment without spending a dime.
Free museums on the National Mall
The National Mall is home to some of the most celebrated free museums in Washington, including the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of American History, and the National Museum of the American Indian. Admission is always free, though select Smithsonian sites, such as the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, require free timed-entry passes. The majority of the Mall’s memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, the National World War II Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, are open 24 hours, so you can explore them at your leisure. For a seamless stay steps from the action, Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf offers walkable access to the Mall and The Wharf with spacious guest rooms, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a convenient on-site Starbucks for quick pick-me-ups.
Capitol Hill at no cost
Capitol Hill is packed with free places to visit in Washington, D.C. Reserve a free tour of the U.S. Capitol, wander the Library of Congress with its ornate reading rooms (free time-entry ticket required), and explore the Supreme Court’s public spaces and courtroom lectures when the Court is not in session. The United States Botanic Garden offers lush conservatories, outdoor gardens, and seasonal exhibits, all with free admission. Hilton Washington DC Capitol Hill is a few blocks from the Capitol and Washington Union Station. Enjoy modern guest rooms and suites, several on-site dining options, plus easy access to the Metro for exploring beyond the Hill.
The district after dark
Washington truly shines after sunset, when the crowds thin out, and the city’s memorials glow against the night sky, offering a peaceful and memorable viewing experience. Stroll past the Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and Korean War Veterans Memorial — all open 24 hours and dramatically illuminated at night. For another evening option, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts hosts free performances most nights on the Millennium Stage. Tickets are always free and first-come, first-served, so try to reserve them in advance. When exploring at night, stick to well-lit routes and check Metro hours, which vary by day. West End Washington DC, Tapestry Collection by Hilton is less than a mile (a little over one kilometer) from the Kennedy Center and offers stylish rooms, a vibrant Cuban rum and cigar bar, and a prime location for exploring the city’s evening attractions.
Art for free in Penn Quarter
Penn Quarter is a haven for art lovers seeking free museums in D.C. The Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery share a historic building and typically offer later hours than other Smithsonian museums, making it easy to browse exhibitions after work or dinner. As you stroll through the area, don’t miss a chance to see the ornate Friendship Archway, a gate adorned with tiles and dragons that marks the entrance to Chinatown. The nearby National Gallery of Art features rotating collections and seasonal activations in the Sculpture Garden. Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Convention Center is walkable to Penn Quarter’s art hubs, with spacious suites, complimentary evening receptions, and free made-to-order breakfast to fuel your full days.
Waterfront freebies at The Wharf
The Wharf offers a lively waterfront scene with plenty of free and low-cost activities. Stroll District Pier and the Southwest Waterfront Park, enjoy the atmosphere at the open-air Municipal Fish Market, or catch seasonal free concerts and outdoor movies on the floating stage at Transit Pier. Kayak rentals are available for a fee, but you can hop on the seasonal Wharf Jitney across the Washington Channel from Recreation Pier to East Potomac Park for free. Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf sits in the heart of The Wharf, offering stunning views of the Potomac River with locally inspired design, complimentary Canopy Bikes, and social spaces perfect for unwinding after a day by the water.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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