From the Lincoln Memorial to the Smithsonian, there's a free world of wonderful things to see and do in Washington. We'll help you make the most of it. The following list includes some of the most exciting free world options. And, if we can help with additional information about our town--or anything else that will make your stay with us more enjoyable--just ask.
| Attractions |
Description |
Miles
from Hotel |
| Cherry Blossom Festival |
Spring festival celebrating the original gift of 3,000 cherry trees from the city of Tokyo. Experience the beautiful blooming of the cherry blossoms and stay for the parades, games, music, and art. |
1 |
| National Zoo |
Home of Tian Tian and Mei Xiang, DC's new giant pandas |
2 |
| Georgetown Shopping |
The bustling DC shopping district known for its collection of trendy shops, its variety of delicious restaurants and cafes, and its old-town atmosphere. |
2 |
| George Washington University |
Take a tour of the university that grew from George Washington's desire to have a national university where “Youth from all parts of the United States” might go to be educated in the arts and sciences, and to study “the principles of Politics and good Government.” |
3 |
| MCI Center |
Home of the Washington Wizards and the Capitals, this venue serves as a center for DC sporting events, large concerts, and family shows. |
1 |
| Mount Vernon |
Visit the historic home of our first president, General George Washington. Learn about the Father of Our Country and his role as a leader, Commander in Chief, and pioneer farmer. |
12 |
| National Aquarium |
Explore the oldest aquarium in the United States and one of the oldest in the world! It contains 50 tanks displaying over 200 species of salt and fresh water fish including some that are endangered. |
1 |
| The National Garden |
Come see the oldest continually-operating botanic garden in the US, which serves as a center for environmental, horticultural and botanical education. |
1 |
| The Old Post Office Pavilion |
Offering savory international cuisine, sophisticated shopping, and the soothing sounds of a jazzy piano or a string quartet. You may also purchase same-day tickets for performances at many local theaters. |
1 |
| Supreme Court of the United |
The highest federal court in the US, the Supreme Court has final appellate jurisdiction and has jurisdiction over all other courts in the nation. |
3 |
| U.S. Capitol |
This great American symbol serves as a meeting place of the nation's legislature, houses an art and history museum, and offers guided tours. |
2 |
| Washington National Cathedral |
The highest point in Washington, the Gothic National Cathedral is the sixth largest cathedral in the world. Take a tour and see the famous "Darth Vader" Gargoyle.
|
3 |
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Museums, Memorials
& Monuments |
Description |
Miles
from Hotel |
| Arlington National Cemetery |
Go on cemetery tours, see the Changing of the Guards, witness the Tomb of the Unknowns, and visit the site of some of the nation's greatest heroes and most honored men and women. |
7 |
| Corcoran Museum of Art |
The oldest art museum and only professional college of art and design in DC. The museum features guided tours as well as activities for kids. |
4 |
| FDR Memorial |
Visit the memorial which honors our 32nd President and the era that he represents. The FDR memorial is located along the famous Cherry Tree Walk. |
3 |
| Federal Bureau of Investigation |
Take a tour of the nation's investigative arm of the US Department of Justice, focusing on national and economic security, criminal enterprises and public integrity, and crimes against individuals and property. |
2 |
| Freedman's Hall Gallery of Art |
The exhibition gallery that celebrates the treasured past of Howard University Hospital. |
1 |
| Jefferson Memorial |
One of the most well-known monuments in DC, the Jefferson Memorial honors the memory of our 3rd president and welcomes visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week. |
2 |
| Korean War Veterans Memorial |
The memorial dedicated to the men and women who fought in the Korean War. |
1 |
| Library of Congress |
Take a tour of the nation's oldest federal cultural institution and the research arm of Congress. |
1 |
| Lincoln Memorial |
Visit the memorial of president Abraham Lincoln, a tribute to the man who fought to preserve the nation during the Civil War. |
2 |
| National Archives and Records |
The institution that preserves our nation's history by overseeing the management of all Federal records, such as the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence. |
2 |
| National Gallery of Art |
Go on tours, hear lectures, watch films, go ice skating (seasonal), and learn about one of the finest collections of art in the world. |
2 |
| National Mall |
Have a picnic, play frisbee, go for a jog, or simply relax on a park bench and enjoy the open, grassy mall at the heart of the city. |
1 |
| Pentagon |
The Pentagon serves as the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense. Tours are given by reservation only. |
8 |
| Rock Creek Park |
The park is a great place to play soccer, picnic, hike, bike, rollerblade, play tennis, fish, horseback ride, listen to a concert, or attend programs with a park ranger. |
2 |
| The Smithsonian |
From the National Zoo to the Air and Space Museum to the American History Museum, The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum complex and research organization and offers something for everyone! |
2 |
| Theodore Roosevelt Island |
A 91 acre wooded island in the Potomac that serves as a memorial for conversationalist president Theodore Roosevelt. |
10 |
| U.S. Navy Memorial and Naval |
The Navy Memorial was created to honor all who have served in the sea services and aims to perpetuate their heritage, values, and traditions. |
3 |
| United States Holocaust Museum |
Visit the museum that serves to foster education, reflection, and remembrance of the victims and the atrocities of the Holocaust. |
1 |
| Vietnam Veterans Memorial |
The solemn wall honoring all those who died in the Vietnam War and a place of healing for all those affected by one of the most divisive wars in our nation's history. |
1 |
| Vietnam Women's Memorial |
A part of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, it honors the over 265,000 women who served in the armed forces of the United States during the Vietnam War. |
1 |
| Washington Monument |
Visit the monument that towers above the city skyline and is easily visible from The Hilton Washington. Free tickets to the top of the obelisk are handed out at kiosks located on the monument grounds. |
1 |
| White House |
Visit the White House, home of every president of the United States since John Adams, and witness the symbol of the presidency firsthand. |
1 |
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| Local Theaters |
Description |
Miles
from Hotel |
| DAR Constitution Hall |
Washington DC's largest concert hall, featuring speakers, comedians, concerts, graduations, opera, filming and corporations. Check Ticketmaster.com for the latest shows. |
1 |
| Ford's Theatre |
The downtown theater that is a living tribute to President Lincoln's love of performing arts. The facility is host to a number of musicals and plays that embody family values, promote multiculturalism, and emphasize the eclectic character of American life. |
3 |
| John F. Kennedy Center for the Arts |
Hosting over 3,000 shows a year, the Kennedy Center offers performances in music, dance, and theater. |
1 |
| National Theatre |
This not-for-profit theater presents Class-A Legitimate touring productions of Broadway shows. |
2 |
| The Washington National Opera |
Experience one of the nation's most highly acclaimed opera performances at the Washington National Opera. |
2 |
| Warner Theatre Wolftrap |
Built first for vaudeville and silent movies, The Warner Theatre has become home to some of the finest in theatrical, dance, and television presentations. |
4 |
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