While there’s no admission charge to enter the 19 museums and galleries of the Smithsonian Institution, they’re merely a fraction of the many free things to do in DC. Cheapskates can spend an entire day visiting most of the capital’s most popular attractions and hitting up some great events in DC without reaching for their wallets. Need more inspiration? Check out our essential list of 50 things to do in Washington, DC.
The 14 best free things to do in DC
The best free things to do in DC, from the zoo to concerts to major attractions to screenings. All completely gratis!
Best free things to do in DC
2. Embassy tour
A Washington tradition since 1998, Screen on the Green is a much beloved pastime for outdoorsy cinephiles and picnic-lovers alike. The rain-or-shine event is exactly what it sounds like: lounging in the grass on the National Mall and watching old movies with your buddies. Past screenings have included crowd favorites such as Back to the Future as well as silver screen standbys like Key Largo with Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall. Leave the booze and lawn chairs at home. (Both are prohibited.)
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