The Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. is a treasure trove of knowledge and culture, and the best part is that admission to all Smithsonian museums is free! Here are some of the top free things you can do at the Smithsonian museums:
1. Explore the Iconic Exhibits
- National Museum of American History: See historic artifacts such as the Star-Spangled Banner, Abraham Lincoln’s Top Hat, and Dorothy’s Ruby Slippers from The Wizard of Oz. The museum offers an enriching experience with free access to exhibits detailing the history of the United States.
- National Museum of Natural History: Visit the world-famous Hope Diamond, explore the Fossil Hall featuring life-sized dinosaur skeletons, or discover the Insect Zoo. These exhibits are free and offer an immersive experience in natural history.
- National Air and Space Museum: See the Wright Brothers’ Flyer, Apollo 11 Command Module, and Spirit of St. Louis. The museum offers engaging exhibits that delve into the history of aviation and space exploration.
2. Visit Special Exhibits
While some special exhibits may require a ticket, most of the rotating exhibits at Smithsonian museums are free to visit. Check the Smithsonian website for updates on free exhibits that may be available during your visit.
3. Stroll Through the Smithsonian Castle
The Smithsonian Institution Building (Castle) serves as the information hub for the Smithsonian museums. You can walk through the building, enjoy the beautiful gardens, and learn about the history of the institution, all for free.
4. Explore the Sculpture Garden
The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden offers a free outdoor sculpture garden with works from artists like Henry Moore and Alexander Calder. It's a peaceful place to relax and enjoy modern art in an outdoor setting.
5. Discover the National Museum of African American History and Culture
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is a must-see, and entry is free. Explore powerful exhibits on African American history, including sections on slavery, civil rights, and music, with artifacts like Chuck Berry's guitar and Muhammad Ali’s boxing gloves.
6. Participate in Free Events and Programs
Many Smithsonian museums offer free public events, such as lectures, workshops, live performances, and family-friendly activities. Check the event calendars for each museum to see what’s happening during your visit.
7. Stroll Through the National Mall
The Smithsonian museums are located on the National Mall, which itself is a fantastic place to explore for free. You can walk along the Mall, visit monuments like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the World War II Memorial without paying a dime.
8. Visit the National Zoo
The Smithsonian National Zoological Park (National Zoo) is another great spot to visit for free. You can see pandas, elephants, and many other animals, and enjoy educational exhibits about wildlife conservation.
9. Enjoy the Freer Gallery of Art & Sackler Gallery
Both the Freer Gallery and the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery are part of the Smithsonian and offer free access to their collections of Asian art, including ancient Chinese ceramics, Japanese woodblock prints, and Islamic art.
10. Explore the National Museum of the American Indian
The National Museum of the American Indian offers free access to its extensive exhibits on Native American cultures across the Americas. Don’t miss the permanent exhibits, which include artifacts, art, and traditional clothing. The museum also features a Native Foods Café, where you can sample indigenous dishes, though food and drinks will cost money.
11. Take a Self-Guided Tour
Many museums offer self-guided tours with apps or brochures that allow you to explore exhibits at your own pace. This is a great way to personalize your experience and discover details you might miss on a general walk-through.
12. Enjoy the Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
- The Enid A. Haupt Garden (adjacent to the Smithsonian Castle) is a beautifully landscaped garden with flowers, shrubs, and trees. It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy nature.
- The U.S. Botanic Garden, located near the Capitol, is another free outdoor space worth visiting. Explore themed gardens and learn about plant life from around the world.
13. Photography in the Museums
You’re allowed to take photos in many of the Smithsonian museums (with certain restrictions). This is a wonderful opportunity to capture memories from your visit and share them with friends and family.
14. Smithsonian Folklife Festival
If you visit during the summer months, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival is an annual event that celebrates cultures from around the world through free performances, demonstrations, and exhibits. The festival is a vibrant cultural experience that takes place on the National Mall.
15. Attend Free Lectures or Films
Many Smithsonian museums host free lectures, film screenings, and discussions on topics related to their exhibits. These are usually free to attend and offer deeper insights into various subjects.
Conclusion:
The Smithsonian museums in D.C. offer a wealth of free things to do and experience, from exploring world-class exhibits to enjoying outdoor sculptures and participating in special events. You can easily spend several days exploring these amazing resources without spending a dime, making it one of the most enriching and budget-friendly experiences in Washington, D.C.
