One of the most-visited natural history museums in the world, home to the Hope Diamond, a soaring African elephant in the rotunda, dinosaur skeletons, and a live butterfly pavilion. Like nearly all Smithsonian museums it is permanently free, making it an unbeatable rainy-day or all-day option on the National Mall.
10 hand-picked things to do in Washington, D.C., United States — 6 completely free — each with a real address, price, hours, and an insider tip. Updated June 2026.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, National Gallery of Art, Lincoln Memorial & National Mall Monuments are among the 6 completely free activities in our Washington, D.C. list. Each entry includes the address, hours, and an insider tip.
Our 10 hand-picked Washington, D.C. activities range from free up to about $20 per person, with most under $25. Use the Free / Budget toggle on the deck to deal within your price range.
Every activity is a real, verified place or experience with a current price, address, and opening hours — hand-picked for travelers and locals. Last updated June 2026.
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