FREE THINGS j Smithsonian National Zoo Free PLACES TO VISIT Discover the best free experiences, attractions and things to do in the nation’s capital. SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL ZOO The 163-acre zoological park has 2,200-plus animals, including giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao. NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AMERICAN HISTORY Marvel at one of the coolest building designs in the city, then go inside to explore 12,000 years of history and 1,200-plus indigenous cultures. See the actual Star-Spangled Banner (flag) that inspired the national anthem and immerse yourself in the evolution of the national identity. DC’s natural playground is double the size of NYC’s Central Park. There’s a golf course, hiking and biking trails, horse stables and a planetarium. NATIONAL ARCHIVES BUILDING ROCK CREEK PARK View the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom at the newly renovated National Archives Museum. HIRSHHORN MUSEUM & SCULPTURE GARDEN NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY & CULTURE GUIDE Thought-provoking art packs the museum that will be complemented by a revitalized Sculpture Garden by fall 2026. An odyssey through the five-floor building weaves a rich tapestry of Black struggle, history and culture, culminating in a celebration of its 10th anniversary in 2026. LINCOLN MEMORIAL The 19-foot-tall statue of Honest Abe sits inside a 190-foot-long marble memorial. A new underground museum is expected to open in 2026. U.S. NATIONAL ARBORETUM PL ANNING Check out Corinthian columns that once supported the U.S. Capitol and a 400-year-old Yamaki pine that survived Hiroshima at the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum. NATIONAL POSTAL MUSEUM Learn the vastness of the U.S. postal system. The William H. Gross Stamp Gallery is the world’s largest dedicated to philately. EVENT EXPERIENCE 12 th IN DC 0 5 2 s a c i r e ' Am VISIT DC250.US
Washington DC Event Planner Guide 2026 Event Planning Guide: Page 12
