Whatever your politics, the capital of the United States is a delight to visit, with a charming, attractive cityscape on a distinctly human scale and bursting with culture, history, and even romance. And it doesn´t have to be a wallet-buster, either - in fact, Washington DC is arguably one of the best destinations in the world for free options!
Free Monuments/Landmarks
The abundance of free museums and well-known landmarks here is one of the city's greatest features. Begin your visit with a stroll down the National Mall (top), where you can spot the U.S. Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument — all of which make for stunning backgrounds for an unforgettable snapshot with your significant other. In addition, all the above are free to visit, along with the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the National Cathedral (above), and the White House (though for this you must request tickets months in advance, through your Representative or Senator´s office if you´re a U.S. citizen or your country´s embassy if you´re an international visitor).
Free Cultural Institutions
These include the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum; the National Arboretum; and most of the 21 museums operated by the venerable Smithsonian Institution, such as the African American History and Culture Museum, the Air and Space Museum (above), the American History Museum, the Asian Art Museum Sackler Gallery, the Hirshorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the National Portrait Gallery, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Zoo.
Picnicking in Parks
Take a romantic picnic to one of DC´s lovely parks, such as Rock Creek Park, the Tidal Basin (above, part of West Patomac Park), and Meridian Hill Park, just north of the White House. These grassy areas provide a tranquil getaway from the bustle of the city. Spread a blanket, enjoy a snack or a meal together, and take in each other's company. Remember to pack your camera for capturing their picture-perfect landscapes. And if you´re coming in March or April, the Tidal Basin is an absolute must for its breathtaking cherry blossoms in full bloom (this year the peak is predicted for the last week of March).
Eastern Market and Street Art
Located in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, this historic red-brick market (marking 150 years in 2025) is a great spot to enjoy for its vibrant ambiance, one-of-a-kind arts and crafts, and plenty of delicious - and quite affordable eats. After that, stroll around the area, which is renowned for its colorful street art, with the city's history and culture depicted through the murals and graffiti. It's a cost-free method of getting a great taste of the local scene.
Sunset and More at the Wharf
Just south of the National Mall, the District Wharf offers lovely views over the Potomac River as the sun goes down. It´s also a vibrant mile-long stretch area for food and entertainment, inaugurated in 2017, with a plethora of shops, bars, and more than 60 restaurants, many of them quite easy on the wallet. You can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, and attend free concerts and events throughout the year (how about May´s "Running of the Chihuahuas"?).
Explore Georgetown
Founded around 1745 as a Maryland tobacco trading post, one of DC's most picturesque and historic neighborhoods may be pricey to live in but for visitors boasts a plethora of inexpensive and free things to see and do, starting with a tour of the elegant row houses along charming (occasionally cobblestone) streets. Highlights include the 224-year-old red-brick manse Dumbarton Oaks (above), now home to a Harvard University-affiliated museum of Byzantine, medieval and Renaissance European, and pre-Columbian art of the Americas (there´s also a beautiful garden, to which tickets cost $15 but is free of charge from December through February); the Old Stone House (DC´s oldest structure, built circa 1766 and also free of charge to visit); the 75 "Exorcist Steps" made famous by the notorious 1973 William Friedkin/Linda Blair movie; the picturesque beginning of the 184-mile C&O Canal (free to stroll along and even take a walking tour of but $25 for a canal boat cruise, which in any case is currently on hiatus); and the campus of Georgetown University, founded in 1789. Furthermore, Georgetown has plenty of wallet-friendly eating options, especially along M Street.
And for information on bus tours in Washington, click here!
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