Washington DC Event Planner Guide - Do NOT DELETE
10 Free & Almost Free Things To Do
2017-03-30 08:04:53
World War II Memorial Photo by Keith Lowry
From viewing historic monuments to exploring scenic parks to hearing live music, DC’s collection of free and almost free things to do covers a wide variety of activities and neighborhoods.
HERE ARE 10 RECOMMENDATIONS.
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture
1. WITNESS THE MAJESTY OF THE NEWEST MUSEUM
Last fall, the National Mall welcomed the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, which features stunning architecture and five floors of exhibitions and artifacts that tell the incredible story of the African American experience. Same-day passes are available online at 6:30 am.
Jazz in the Garden Photo by Joe Loong
2. BASK IN THE SOUNDS OF JAZZ AT THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART SCULPTURE GARDEN
The ‘Jazz in the Garden’ series is one of the most popular summertime activities in town. Jazz bands and artists jam in front of picnic-toting locals at the National Gallery of Art garden, which is filled with sculptures from modern masters. Wine and snacks are available for purchase. The series is free and runs from late May to early September, on Friday evenings.
Walk along the Tidal Basin
3. CREATE A MOMENT AT THE NATIONAL MALL’S MEMORIALS
A stroll through the National Mall presents countless opportunities for Instagram glory, as you can stand beside Abe on his perch at the Lincoln Memorial, marvel at Jefferson Memorial views along the Tidal Basin and reflect on the great civil rights icon at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.
Drum Circle Photo by Elvert Barnes
4. TAP INTO COMMUNAL SPIRIT AT MERIDIAN HILL PARK’S DRUM CIRCLE
Located near the vibrant neighborhoods of Columbia Heights and Adams Morgan, Meridian Hill Park features gorgeous scenery and sculptures. Its long-running Sunday afternoon drum circle invites any and all to participate, creating a scene like none other in the nation’s capital.
Capital Harvest on the Plaza Photo by Elvert Barnes
5. LIVE THAT MARKET LIFE AT DC OUTPOSTS BEDECKED WITH LOCAL VENDORS
Historic Georgetown’s flea market is open every Sunday year-round, with local vendors selling antique jewelry and vintage clothing. For farm-fresh deliciousness, head downtown to Capital Harvest on the Plaza on Friday afternoons and the Columbia Heights Farmers Market on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Of course, there’s always Eastern Market, a Capitol Hill institution.
Millennium Stage
6. EXPERIENCE A FREE PERFORMANCE AT THE KENNEDY CENTER’S MILLENNIUM STAGE
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts hosts free concerts on its Millennium Stage at 6 pm daily. The variety of performers is impressive: On one night, you may catch the United States Army Band; on another, an indie-folk act or an up-and-coming Broadway star.
District Distilling Co.
7. MAKE THE MOST OF THE DC DISTILLERY CRAZE
Locals have turned their attention to crafting spirits, which has given rise to numerous distilleries in the area. Many offer free or inexpensive tours and tastings, including District Distilling Co., New Columbia Distillers, Don Ciccio & Figli and Republic Restoratives.
The Yards Park wading canal Photo by Nick Hopkins
8. EMBRACE THE REVITALIZED RIVERFRONT AT THE YARDS PARK
Before or after you attend a Washington Nationals game, admire and savor the modern green space nearby that is The Yards Park in Capitol Riverfront. The free-to-enter area features a futuristic footbridge, a kid-friendly wading canal and plenty of space for playtime next to the water.
Rock Creek Park
9. EXPLORE ROCK CREEK PARK, A NEARLY 3,000-ACRE PLAYGROUND
With over 48 miles of trails, Rock Creek Park serves as a scenic refuge from the city, perfect for a peaceful walk, run or bike ride, especially during the warmer months. For a dose of history, visit Peirce Mill, which served as a water-powered grist mill in the 1800s.
Washington National Cathedral
10. WANDER THE GARDENS OF THE WASHINGTON NATIONAL CATHEDRAL
The grounds of the Washington National Cathedral consist of 59 serene acres, including the Bishop’s Garden, a 14th-century style plot that boasts blooming roses in the summertime. Docentled tours for groups of five or more are available by reservation. Donations are recommended.
EMOJI DC
Download the free Emoji DC app for iPhone or Android and use DC-themed stickers featuring Smithsonian museums, motorcades, monuments and the U.S. Capitol Dome.
The whole city is in bloom!
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