THINGS TO DO DC’s collection of free and almost free things to do covers a wide variety of activities and neighborhoods, and lets you experience everything from engaging museums and tours to affordable happy hour hot spots. ENGAGEWITHAMERICANHISTORY Kramerbooks P anda at ords & A erw Cafe the National Z oo & ALMOST FREE FREE Smithsonian National African Americ Museum of an Histor Photo by y and Cult Rex Hammock ure Explore a wide variety of exhibits at the new Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, an expansive, free-to-visit addition to the National Mall. For less than $10, learn fascinating Civil War history at the Clara Barton Missing Soldiers Office Museum. KICKBACKANDDIGDC’SCOOLSIDE Grab a cup of coffee at the Dupont Circle cafe-bookstore mainstay Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe, or veg out with vinyl at Songbyrd Music House and Record Cafe in Adams Morgan, which often hosts free concerts. Over on 14th Street, dig through the crates at SomRecords. al Cathedr The National ophiend y phot b o Phot GOPANDASPOTTINGATTHENATIONALZOO The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is home to more than 1,800 animals, including four giant pandas, the zoo’s most famous residents. Meet Bei Bei or wave to Tian Tian, who made quite a stir last year when a video of him rolling in the snow went viral. DISCOVERDC’SSPIRITUALSIDE Visit churches that showcase spectacular architecture, craftsmanship and acoustics. The Washington National Cathedral offers 30-minute tours at a low price or for free on Sundays. The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception offers free guided tours daily. FILLUPONCHEAPEATS The half-smoke sausage at Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street is one of DC’s most famous foods, and G by Mike Isabella offers sandwich perfection. Get your fast-casual fix from Le Pain Quotidien or homegrown spots like Sweetgreen and Burger Tap & Shake. Ben’s Chili Bowl Find 100 free (& almost free) things to do at WASHINGTON ORG
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