Washington DC Event Planner Guide - 2025 Event Planning Guide

Discover the best free experiences, attractions and things to do in the nation’s capital.

1 PLANET WORD
Interact with a 22-foot talking wall and visit the Speaking Willow tree to hear murmurs in hundreds of languages. Admission is free but a $15 donation is suggested.

2 SMITHSONIAN AMERICAN ART MUSEUM & NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY
One building, two art museums, thousands of iconic and trailblazing works, no charge.

3 SMITHSONIAN’S NATIONAL ZOO & CONSERVATION BIOLOGY INSTITUTE
Visitors can discover thousands of animals, including two new giant pandas that arrived just before 2025.

4 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN ART
A massive collection informs a dynamic Smithsonian location that off ers a unique look at African artistic expression.

5 RENWICK GALLERY
Just steps from the White House, the design marvel of a museum is dedicated to exhibiting decorative art and contemporary craft masters.

6 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AMERICAN HISTORY
Educate yourself on topics like the advent of transportation in the U.S. and the evolution of diverse identities.

7 NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART
Two buildings and a sculpture garden feature iconic works including the only Da Vinci painting on display in the Americas.

8 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ASIAN ART
The Smithsonian museum offers seminal art from China, the Himalayas and other territories.

9 NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY & CULTURE
An odyssey through five floors weaves a rich tapestry for visitors, showcasing Black history and culture and its profound influence.

10 NATIONAL AIR & SPACE MUSEUM
Explore the wonders of the sky across eight new galleries. Even more reimagined spaces will debut in phases through 2026.

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