10 FREE THINGS TO DO IN WASHINGTON DC
It is super easy to travel to Washington DC on a budget. There are so many things you can see and do that are completely FREE! Here are 10 of our favourite things to do in DC that wont cost you a thing.
1. Become a pilot
Spend the day at the National Air and Space Museum, the entry is free. There you can play pilot in a mock cockpit along with seeing some other incredible aircrafts on display as well as a lunar rover!
2. Go to the zoo
The National Zoo in Rock Creek National Park is part of the Smithsonian Institution, allowing for admission to be free. There you can see over 400 species of animals.
3. Take a tour of the Capitol building
Guided tours of the U.S Capitol building are free, but you need to get there early as tickets are given out on a first-served basis.
4. Be surrounded by butterflies
Spend a day exploring the National Museum of Natural History (yes, the entry is free of course) just make sure you visit on Tuesday. Normally the Butterfly Pavilion is $6 per ticker, however tickets are free every Tuesday!
5. Tour the White House
You will need to arrange this one early, but it will be well worth it. To take a tour of the White House you need to make a request through a member of Congress and once accepted the tours are scheduled one month in advance.
6. Star gaze in the planetarium
In Rock Creek Park you can get a free tour of the night sky at the only planetarium operated by the National Park Service.
7. See how money is made
Take a free tour of the Bureau of Engraving and Print and see how U.S paper currency is printed, stacked, cut and examined for defects! Free tours run every 15 minutes, Monday through Friday, 9am to 2pm.
8. Explore the National Museum of American History
At the National Museum of American History you can see the Star-Spangled Banner flag, which inspired their national anthem, learn the history of the American presidency and even see Dorothy's red slippers in the Popular Culture exhibition.
9. Catch a free performance
The National Theatre hold free performances on Saturday mornings. The lineup changes each week, from puppet shoes to magic, music and ballet. Tickets are distributed on a first-come, first served basis so you need to get there early.
10. Explore DC on a free walking tour
DC by Foot is a walking tour company that give free tours around DC, however gratuity is recommended. There are a number of tours to choose from such as the Monuments Tour, the Lincoln Assassination Walking Tour and the Ghosts of Georgetown Tour.
Have you visited DC? We would love to hear about your experience.
READ NEXT: 3 DAYS IN WASHINGTOND DC