Getty Images
There are so many free and cheap things to do around the District.
Getty Images
The cherry blossoms won't be back until spring, but the Tidal Basin is a beautiful walk any time of year. Do a loop around the water and you'll see the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
Washington Post/Getty Images
You can bike, run or stroll through the lilies at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, where you'll spot marsh birds, lily pads and some gorgeous flowers. It's a National Park and free to visit.
The Washington Post/Getty Images
Summer and fall are outdoor movie season in D.C. Here's a roundup of the summer movies.
CQ-Roll Call,Inc.
Swing on the pier, attend an event stroll along the water or browse D.C.'s fish market at the waterfront development in Southwest.
Getty Images
More than 400,000 former service men and women are laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. Any day of the year, the public is welcome to visit the site. President John F. Kennedy's grave is there, marked by an Eternal Flame. You can also visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witness the ceremonial changing of the guards at least every hour.
The Washington Post/Getty Images
In the middle of the Potomac River, you’ll find a park that feels miles away from a city. Head to the middle and you’ll find one of D.C.’s less obvious monuments, the Teddy Roosevelt memorial.
AFP/Getty Images
A number of senators, representatives and even the legendary first FBI director J. Edgar Hoover were buried in the cemetery.
Shutterstock
When it gets chilly outside, the U.S. Botanic Garden stays balmy and green. Explore a tropical rainforest, a reconstructed Jurassic landscape, rare and endangered species, orchids and more.
Emily Haight/NMWA
Housed in a gorgeous building, the National Museum of Women in the Arts highlights the works of female artists. Usually, an adult ticket costs $10 (free if you’re under 18). On the first Sunday of each month, the museum hosts a community day and admission is free.
Getty Images
The Freer|Sackler galleries display Asian art and artifacts. As with all Smithsonian museums, it's free to visit. The museum also hosts film screenings featuring classic and new movies.
Getty Images
D.C.’s Union Market features a handful of places to eat, drink and shop. The hub includes more than 40 vendors and hosts events throughout the week. The market is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the week and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. It's closed on Mondays.
AFP/Getty Images
From the Potomac River to 14th Street, you'll find monuments to America's greatest leaders and largest wars. The Washington Monument, which is closed for construction but still viewable from the outside, marks the eastern edge. Walk west and you'll find the epic World War II memorial, where you can snap a picture with the pillar representing your state. The D.C. War Memorial, somber Vietnam Veterans Memorial, haunting Korean War Veterans Memorial and some smaller monuments are found on either side of the Reflecting Pool. The imposing Lincoln Memorial towers over the western edge. You'll find other monuments circling the Tidal Basin, just south of the Reflecting Pool.
Willian Avila
Hang out and marvel at the towering columns at the National Building Museum's Great Hall. If you have children, the open grounds provide plenty of room for playtime.
Shutterstock
Situated near Dupont Circle, but a few blocks away from the rush of Connecticut Avenue, the curved Spanish Steps make for a perfect post-brunch walk.
Getty Images
Celebrate and learn about the contributions of African Americans through artifacts, interactive exhibits and events at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
The Washington Post/Getty Images
D.C. can seriously accommodate beer lovers. You can find free tours at 3 Stars Brewing Company, DC Brau, Right Proper Brewing Company and Atlas Brew Works. (Looking for fun stuff outside of the city? See our guides for Northern Virginia here and for Maryland here)
Getty Images
Retrace the steps of Nicholas Cage -- but don’t steal the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, Bill of Rights or any of the other historical documents. The museum is open daily and is free.
This not-so-secret corner of Rock Creek Park is where hundreds of pounds of stones that used to make up America's Capitol Building have been dumped. You can still see some intricate designs. It's near the Rock Creek Park Horse Center — hunt for the Capitol Ruins on Google Maps for an exact location. (Looking for fun stuff outside of the city? See our guides for Northern Virginia here and for Maryland here)
Erica Jones
Rangers offer free guided tours daily of the home of one of history’s most tireless activists. Frederick Douglass lived the last 17 years of his life at Cedar Hill, a now-historic D.C. home.
Shutterstock
This haunting and unique statue offers a place to honor the thousands of of men who lost their lives when the Titanic sank.
This lesser-known memorial outside the National Academy of Sciences honors Einstein and his greatest contributions to physics. Look down and you'll see the skies: the floor is doubles as a star map!
Shutterstock
Eastern Market (225 7th Street SE) is a farmer's market, bazaar and upscale food court all rolled into one. Inside, a number of restaurants sell crab cakes, groceries, freshly cut meats and more. Vendors outside sell unique soaps, clothing, decor and art. You'll find the market open Tuesdays through Sundays. On Sundays, a bustling flea market sets up on 7th Street SE. Across C street, Capitol Hill Books (657 C St. SE) is packed to the gills with literary treasures (and hilariously tongue-in-cheek signage).
CQ-Roll Call,Inc.
D.C. boasts a robust distillery scene, which one booze-maker said is because it’s the only city in America where you can make and serve alcohol in the same establishment. If you’re in Northeast, Jos. A Magnus & Co., Republic Restoratives and New Columbia Distillers offer free tours, usually on Saturdays. Check with the distillery before heading over.
Getty Images
Stroll (or bike, if you’re comfortable in traffic) down Massachusetts Avenue from Woodley Park through Dupont Circle, and you’ll pass embassies from every continent. Try to guess the flags as you pass. Each May, they open their doors to the public for free.
Shutterstock
Museums suited to every interest line the National Mall — and all of the Smithsonians are free to visit. The Smithsonian Castle serves as the visitor's center. The Air and Space Museum showcases spacecraft from the Wright era to the space age. For art, check out the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the National Gallery of Art and the Freer Sackler gallery. History buffs will love the American History Museum, Natural History Museum, National Museum of the American Indian and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Shutterstock
You’ve heard the tale: In 1804, Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton entered into a duel that ended in Hamilton’s death. Now, you can see the firearms for yourself among letters and portraits detailing the remarkable life of the former Secretary of the Treasury.
Shutterstock
The Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (400 Michigan Ave. NE) may be D.C.'s most underrated tourist spot. Right off the Brookland station on the Red Line sits one of the 10 largest churches in the world, according to the Basilica's website. If you visit, tour the outside and the lower crypt. But do not miss the upper church, where the ceilings are covered in intricate murals.
Getty Images for SiriusXM
No trip to D.C. is complete without a half-smoke, and the original is housed at Ben’s Chili Bowl. Adorned with a mural celebrating African-Americans legends including The Obamas, Dave Chappelle, Dick Gregory, Mayor Muriel Bowser, News4's own Jim Vance, Chuck Brown's daughter, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton and Cora Masters Barry. Chili dogs start at $4.40; the Original Chili Half-Smoke is $5.95.
Shutterstock
From the Capitol's old Corinthian columns to photography classes to an azalea collection, the arboretum has more to see than just trees — and yes, it's free.
The Washington Post/Getty Images
D.C.'s Chinatown is small and always bustling. At the intersection of 7th and G streets Northwest, the Friendship Archway and decorated 6-way crossing make great photo opportunities. Stop and listen to the buskers playing music or singing throughout the neighborhood. If you're hunting for Asian flavors, Chinatown Express offers a $6.95 lunch special where you watch the chefs make food. Wok and Roll, China Boy, Penny Whisky and Reren Lamen & Bar are neighborhood favorites. If you like ramen, Daikaya is well-loved among locals and Bantam King serves up tasty bowls alongside fried chicken.
AP
Watch millions of dollars make their way through the printing press at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Free, 40-minute tours are offered year round, but you’ll need a ticket from March 5 to Aug. 21.
The Washington Post/Getty Images
This church-turned-brilliantly colored art space hosts several free events a month (with cash bars, of course) and gallery viewings on Saturdays and Sundays. It was formerly called the Blind Whino.
Getty Images
The Highlights Tour allows you to explore the details of the Cathedral's dramatic art and architecture with a guided tour tailored for first-time visitors. Reservations not required for individuals or families, and the tour is free with admission into the church. You can also look on from the outside, where you can see some very unique architectural flair.
The Washington Post/Getty Images
At the Anderson House, a free museum that focuses on all things related to the American Revolution, you'll find antique tapestries, sculptures, portraits and more.
Getty Images
AFI Silver Theater has plenty of unique choices. The center has two stadium theaters and numerous events. If you’re looking for a movie that hasn’t been in theaters for a while, or a screening of a classic flick, this could be the place where you find it. Ticket prices vary.
Getty Images
D.C.’s free zoo is one of the world’s best.
Getty Images
With two locations open and another coming soon, one of D.C.'s favorite independent bookstore offers more than paperbacks and hardcovers. Many of the stores’ guest speaker events are free, but you can also stop by to pick up a new release or grab coffee and a snack at The Den coffeehouse and wine bar (Connecticut Avenue location only).
Boston Garden Development Corp.
You can scope out the architecture or, if you get there early, watch the judges hear a case. The Supreme Court does not offer guided walking tours, but you can visit public portions of the building.
Getty Images
The Embassy of Canada Art Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public. Murals, paintings and more with Canadian ties are on display. The gallery rotates its exhibits, so you’ll be able to visit twice and see different works.
Shutterstock
Whether you’re looking for breakfast, dinner or somewhere to see a show, H Street has plenty of options. You can head to Dangerously Delicious Pies for a delectable slice, Bullfrog Bagels for a New York-style bagel or Granville Moore’s for mussels and other pub-type food. There are performances to see at the Atlas Performing Arts Center and live shows at the Rock and Roll Hotel. On Sept. 15, 2018, the streets will be full for the H Street festival, the biggest neighborhood celebration in D.C.
If you have a plane-lover in your group, head to Gravelly Point for a picnic and skywatching.
Getty Images
Contact your representative for a tour inside the Capitol, a massive complex connected by underground tunnels. The Supreme Court is nearby, and the neighborhood has colorful homes and the Folger Shakespeare Library, which says it features the world's largest Shakespeare collection, gardens, art and more. Admission is free, but shows are not.
D.C.'s natural oasis boasts hiking trails, picnic areas and more to explore. Space-lovers should make sure to check out the planetarium, which hosts programs on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
Stroll near the waterfront, sip coffee in some of D.C.'s favorite caffeine stops, window shop or just soak in the quaint architecture. Hoof it through the hilly Book Hill Park (1500-1600 blocks of Wisconsin Avenue NW) for incredible views.
D.C. is among the fittest cities in America, possibly because of the bounty of free workout classes. You can find lists of free workouts on Fitverse or The November Project.
There are dozens of talks daily on art, international politics, the environment, history and any other topic you can think of in the city. Most of them are hosted by museums, think tanks and nonprofits for free. CultureCapital.com curates a large list, and you can also check in with major organizations that cater to your interests, including the CATO Institute, Heritage Foundation, Brookings Institute and the Smithsonian.
Shutterstock
Capital Bikeshare Rentals start at $2 for an hour of rides, and new dockless bikeshare companies start at $1 per ride. Wear a helmet and cruise one of the city’s many bike lanes, or head over to Rock Creek Park for a dose of nature.
Shutterstock
Music lovers can go for the free daily performances, but anyone can enjoy the roof deck overlooking the Potomac River.
Free, one-hour walking tours are offered regularly Monday through Friday. With a valid, official ID card, you can sign up for a library card which allows you to access special reading rooms.
Getty Images
Hit up two museums in one building at the National Portrait Gallery — home to the presidential portrait hall —and Smithsonian American Art Museum, which hosts treasures ranging from gorgeous landscape paintings to mesmerizing folk art.
Over the Weekend
Free Pick WalkingTour DC Through Sunday, Sept 22 Multiple Locations
See D.C. through a different set of eyes on one of the more than 50 guided walking tours hosted by volunteer historians and certified tour guides. No matter your interest or neighborhood, there's a tour available. Tour topics range from the history of Adams Morgan, art galleries of Capitol Hill, a natural history hike on Teddy Roosevelt Island or a look at President Abraham Lincoln's assassination from the eyes of a detective.
Local
Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia local news, events and information
Make sure to register in advance. The tours are free; a $10 donation is encouraged.
Free Pick King Street Art Festival Sept. 21-22; Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. King Street between Washington Street and the Potomac River
Old Town Alexandria's huge annual art festival is back with more than 200 artists selling everything from fine art, jewelry, clothing and decor.
If you want to spruce up your home, this is the place. There's $15 million worth of art on display — or you can just feast your eyes.
Stop by the Ice Cream Bowl Fundraiser to pick up a handmade ceramic bowl for $15 — which comes with a scoop of ice cream. It's open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Proceeds benefit The Art League.
If beer and wine are more your style, stop by the Torpedo Factory from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. You can purchase a craft beer or wine, explore the arts center and meet artists.
Free Pick Fiesta DC Sept. 20 1-5:30 p.m. Sept. 21 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Pennsylvania and Constitution Avenues
Celebrate latino culture in DC for the 48th annual Fiesta DC parade and festival.
On Friday, the Parade of Nations will march through the Mall along Seventh street, Constitution Avenue, 12th Street and then concluding on Pennsylvania Avenue.
On Saturday, the Festival will take place from 11-7 p.m. by the National Gallery of Art along Pennsylvania and Constitution Avenues. Come for the folkloric dances and music from various Latin American countries, stay for the food, entertainment and beauty pageant at the festival all day Saturday.
Sept. 20-21 Carroll County Farm Museum (500 S Center St., Westminster, MD)
This festival celebrating local Maryland wines pairs the Carroll County Farm Museum with cheese, crabcakes, live music and much more this weekend. Ticket prices vary from a $20 Designated Driver & Children pass to a $60 Explorer Pass, which gets you a larger tasting glass and access to additional exclusive wines.
The Great Frederick Fair 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. through Sept. 21 The Great Frederick Fair (797 E Patrick St, Frederick, Maryland)
Make your way to Frederick County’s largest event of the year. Some 18,000 exhibits featuring livestock, art, gardens and more make up this agricultural and education experience. Snag a ticket to see Randy Houser and LANCO on Friday, Sept. 20 or The Allman Betts Band with Special Guest Montgomery Gentry Saturday, Sept. 21 for $30-$45.
DC Shorts Film Festival
https://festival.dcshorts.com/
Through Sept. 28
Various locations
Enjoy an evening of bite-size films at E Street Cinema during the 16th annual DC Shorts Film Festival. The festival, billed as the largest short film event on the East Coast, features dramas, comedies, animation and documentary shorts from an international group of filmmakers. Don't have time to visit in person? Some of the films are available to stream on the festival's website for this week only
Enjoy an evening of bite-size films at E Street Cinema this weekend during the 16th annual DC Shorts Film Festival. The festival, billed as the largest short film event on the East Coast, features dramas, comedies, animation and documentary shorts from an international group of filmmakers. Don't have time to visit in person? Some of the films are available to stream on the festival's website for this week only.
Dance your heart out every night this weekend with social dances at Echo Park. No prior experience or partner are required to attend the contra dance Friday night at 7:30 or 8:30 p.m., swing dance Saturday at 8:00 p.m. or learn the Argentine Tango 6:30 Sunday. Tickets cost $5-20 at the door.
Several comedy events, book readings, orchestras, and more close out the REACH Center Opening Festival at the Kennedy Center. Access to these first-come, first-serve events are free but require a timed ticket for entry. Here's our full guide to the event.
The Kennedy Center's new interactive public space, The REACH, is named for its purpose: to reach and educate audiences. An opening festival with nearly 500 free events will take place Sept. 7-22.
The Apple Gala & Fresh Cider Festival kicks off this weekend. The fest features plenty of fresh apple cider and doughnuts, plus a demo on an 1865 cider press, a corn maze, live music and more. Admission is $12 for adults and $10 for kids.
Come out to see medieval jousting and street entertainment at the Maryland Renaissance Festival. Dressing up in medieval attire is encouraged. Make sure to bring to bring cash to enjoy the giant turkey legs, mead and dozens of artisans and merchants that create art, pottery, jewelry, and more. Tickets: children $12, adults $27, seniors $23.
Get in the Halloween spirit at Kings Dominion this October, where in addition to terrifying roller coasters you'll find bloody attractions like the Masquerade, Blood on the Bayou and Cleaver Brothers Carnival. Buy your Haunt tickets online and save on prices you'd have to pay at the door.
In the mood for a scream? This year Six Flag's annual fright fest has included new attractions like Curs3d, the horror musical, and its Medieval Mayhem attraction. The theme park is open until 10 p.m. on Saturdays and 9 p.m. on Sundays through the end of the month.
Pumpkin Village Festival Sept. 21-Nov. 5 Leesburg Animal Park (19270 James Monroe Highway Leesburg, VA)
Fall is here, and with it comes pumpkins. This year, the Pumpkin Village Festival in Loudoun County will feature slides, hay rides, face painting and pumpkins all month long.
Parents, this may be your chance to beat your kids in a video game. Head to Yards Park for classic arcade favorites like Pacman, pinball and air hockey. It wouldn't be complete without three decades worth of pop music — all from the '80s, '90s and 2000s.
You know fall is on our doorstep when the last Truckeroo of the season comes around. Head there for some of D.C.'s favorite mobile eats, including Due South, Surfside, Capital Chicken and Waffles, Red Hook Lobster Pound and DC Empanadas — then say goodbye until next season.
Saturday
Smorgasburg DC Saturdays, Sept. 7-Oct. 26 Tingey Plaza, at the corner of New Jersey Ave. and Tingey Street
Enjoy local food and beer at the world’s largest weekly outdoor food market. Organizers recommend bringing a reusable water bottle and umbrella because this market is open rain or shine. You can lessen your environmental impact because Smorgasburg uses 100% compostable napkins, utensils and cups. It's free to enter and smell the goodies.
D.C. has a lot of no-cost museums — but on Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day, almost every museum is free. You can register for a ticket so two people can enter any participating museum.
Dumbarton House, the National Museum of Women in the Arts and the National Law Enforcement Museum are just a few museums that normally charge fees, but are free to visit with the special ticket.
Free Pick Clarendon Day Sept. 21, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wilson Boulevard and Clarendon Boulevard, between Washington Boulevard and Garfield Street
Enjoy multiple stages of music, a kids' area, arts and crafts vendors and more in Clarendon. There will be food, wine and beer available for purchase.
Runners can sign up for the Clarendon Day Run — a mostly downhill 5K or 10K course. The run is partnered with the Wendy Martinez Legacy Project, which honors slain runner Wendy Martinez by funding womens' empowerment programs.
Free Pick H Street Festival Sept. 21, noon to 7 p.m. H Street between 4th Street SE and 14th Street NE
One of D.C. largest festivals is back for another day bursting with music, art, fashion shows and more. Stroll up and down H Street, grab food from vendors, pop into bars for cold brews and dance the afternoon away in parking lots-turned-music venues.
This event in historic Manassas will feature cuisine from Ethiopian, Greek, Romanian and Slavic communities. Admission is free, but there will be a cost for food.
Over 150 vehicles are expected to roll into this show at the Manassas Museum, just two blocks from the food festival. Among awards and other events, a Model T Ford assembly demonstration will take place during the show.
Described as an “adventurous chamber orchestra”, Wild Up creates music that aims to be thought-provoking and excite listeners with a sound influenced by Julius Eastman. Don't miss this Los Angeles-based group is making their Washington, D.C. debut this weekend.
All pies are good pies, but which pie is the best? The Takoma Park Farmers Market wants to find out. Pies will be professionally judged — then the public can purchase slices for a donation. Entry information is here.
Taste of Georgetown K Street NW between Wisconsin Ave. and Thomas Jefferson Street 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Eat your way through 30 Georgetown restaurants, including Chaia Tacos, The Dough Jar, 1789, Reren and more. You can purchase food with tickets, which are discounted during pre-sale.
The March on Washington Film Festival opens on Sunday with a screening of "Amazing Grace: The Power of Aretha Franklin." It's showing at the Washington National Cathedral at 2 p.m. Tickets have sold out, but check out the schedule of future showings so you don't miss out.
Home Game Roundup
Capitals
Saturday, Sept. 21 at 7 p.m.: Capitals face the Hurricanes in this preseason game
DC United
Sunday, Sept. 22 at 8 p.m.: DC United plays Seattle Sounders
