Top Ten Free Things to Do in Washington, DC for the 4th of July

Looking for something free, fun, and exciting to do this Fourth of July? Try Washington, DC for the best fireworks and the best free things!

1. Free performances daily at 6 pm on the Millenium Stage at the Kennedy Center!

2. Take a long meandering and beautiful walk along the Potomac River starting in Georgetown Harbor, ending along the Washington Waterfront.

3. Did you know all of the Smithsonian Institute Museums are free? That’s 18 free world-class museums!

4. What better way to celebrate freedom and liberty than to take a tour of the White House?

5. Call your Congressman or Senator’s office in advance to ask for a personal tour of the Capitol Building. (You can also just show up and take a tour from a docent from the visitor’s office.)

6. Visit the National Mall and Monuments- the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, World War II Memorial, Korean War Memorial (and more!), are all free, and open 365 days a year!

7. While you are visiting the National Mall, scope out your seat for one of the best- and free- fireworks displays in the country! On the 4th of July crowds arrive early in the day to stake their spot on the grounds, watch a few free concerts, enjoy a picnic, and watch the fireworks after dark!

8. Pay tribute to our Nation’s fallen soldiers with a trip to Arlington National Cemetery. (The cemetery is free to visitors, however parking does cost $1.75.)

9. Union Station is more than just a train station. It is full of history, artwork, restaurants, and shops. It is free to enter, but we can’t be held responsible for what  you may want to buy once you are inside!

10. The National Geographic Museum is one of DC’s best kept secrets. With educational exhibits that compliment the internationally renowned magazine, visitors old and young alike will be entertained and amazed at what they see inside.