Washington, DC
Every Smithsonian is free. All 21 of them.
DC might be the best free city in America. All 21 Smithsonian museums are free, the National Zoo is free, the National Gallery is free, the memorials are free, and the Kennedy Center has free performances every single night at 6pm. You could spend a week here and not pay admission to anything.
Local tip
Kennedy Center Millennium Stage has a free performance every night at 6pm. No tickets needed, no reservations. Just show up. Jazz, classical, world music — it rotates.
What's happening
Boo at the Zoo Runs Oct 16-18 at the National Zoo
Trick-or-treating, a kids dance party, pumpkin patch photo ops, and nighttime animal house visits at the Smithsonian's National Zoo from 6-8:30pm.
Washingtonian · 2026-10-12
Altair Opens First DC Location Downtown
New York import Altair opened October 15 with a New American menu featuring hyperseasonal dishes like honeynut squash ravioli and charred scallops.
City Cast DC · 2026-10-15
Bajo Opens in Shaw: Spanish-Japanese Fusion in Blagden Alley
Chef Max Rivera (ex-minibar) and Sarah Montell bring tapas, yakitori, and crudos to a listening bar in Blagden Alley with Spanish wines and sake.
City Cast DC · 2026-10-15
DC Wine Fest at Dock5 on Oct 17
Wine tasting event at Dock5 in Union Market district featuring selections from regional and national wineries.
Washington Times · 2026-10-15
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Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Hope Diamond and a T. rex, completely free
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Actual Wright Flyer and Apollo 11 capsule, free
Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute
Giant pandas and 2,100 animals, totally free
National Children's Museum
All hands-on, all for kids 0-12
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Ruby slippers, Julia Child's kitchen, all free
National Building Museum
The Great Hall is free and spectacular