DC Department of Parks and Recreation
- Things to do
- Low cost
- Online or statewide
Recreation centers, pools, parks and classes across DC. Many programs are free or low-cost.
Who it's for: Open to DC residents; fees vary by program.
District of Columbia
8 resources in District of Columbia, plus programs open to everyone.
In District of Columbia
Libraries, parks and things to do
Library of Congress
- Things to do
- Free
Free tours and exhibits in the Thomas Jefferson Building. Free timed-entry tickets are required, so reserve ahead or check for same-day tickets.
Who it's for: Open to everyone.
- Thomas Jefferson Building 10 First St SE, Washington, DC 20540 Directions
National Gallery of Art
- Things to do
- Free
Free art museum on the National Mall with paintings, sculpture, and free talks and tours.
Who it's for: Open to everyone.
- West Building 6th St and Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20565 Directions
National Mall and Memorial Parks
- Things to do
- Free
Free access to the monuments and memorials on the National Mall, such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.
Who it's for: Open to everyone.
- Lincoln Memorial 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20037 Directions
- Washington Monument 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024 Directions
Rock Creek Park
- Things to do
- Free
Free trails, picnic areas and a nature center with programs, in a large park in the city.
Who it's for: Open to everyone.
- Nature Center 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015 Directions
Smithsonian Museums
- Things to do
- Free
Free admission to the Smithsonian's museums in DC, including several on the National Mall.
Who it's for: Open to everyone. Some exhibits or busy times may need a free timed pass.
- Smithsonian Castle (Information Center) 1000 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560 Directions
Smithsonian's National Zoo
- Things to do
- Free
Free admission to see animals and explore the grounds. Free entry passes are required: reserve online, or use the limited walk-up passes.
Who it's for: Open to everyone.
- National Zoo 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008 Directions
United States Botanic Garden
- Things to do
- Free
Free indoor gardens and outdoor plantings near the Capitol. Timed tickets are not required.
Who it's for: Open to everyone.
- Conservatory 100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20001 Directions
Available everywhere
Libraries, parks and things to do
Every Kid Outdoors
- Things to do
- Free
- Online or statewide
A free pass for fourth graders and their families to visit national parks, lands and waters for a year.
Who it's for: Fourth graders and their families.
Museums for All
- Things to do
- Low cost
- Online or statewide
Free or reduced admission to participating museums across the country for people receiving SNAP benefits. Bring your EBT card and a photo ID.
Who it's for: People receiving SNAP benefits.
National Park Service Entrance Passes and Free Days
- Things to do
- Free
- Online or statewide
Free entrance days at national parks, plus discounted or free passes for eligible groups.
Who it's for: Open to everyone on free days; passes have their own rules.