Free museums in Washington D.C.

The National Museum of American History, managed by the Smithsonian Institution, is situated in Washington D.C., on the National Mall. The museum was initially opened in 1964 under the name Museum of History and Technology, but it adopted its current name in 1980.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) is a part of the Smithsonian Institution and is located on the National Mall in Washington. The museum was officially established in 2003, initially existing as an online platform. The physical construction of the museum began in 2012 and it was officially opened to the public on September 24, 2016.

The White House, located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, 20500 Washington D.C., serves as the official residence and workplace of the current President of the United States. This iconic building is a significant part of the nation's history and political landscape, making it a point of interest for tourists visiting Washington D.C.

The National Air and Space Museum, part of the Smithsonian Institute, is home to the world's largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft. This makes it a unique destination for those interested in aviation and space exploration. The museum's collection includes both original objects and backup copies, providing a comprehensive overview of the history and technology of flight.

The National Museum of Natural History, located in the National Mall, Washington D.C., is a part of the Smithsonian Institution. This museum is a significant destination for tourists interested in natural history, housing a vast collection of specimens and cultural objects.

Ford's Theatre is also known as the site of the assassination of U.S. President Abraham Lincoln on April 14, 1865. This significant event in American history is commemorated at the theatre, making it a place of great historical importance. Visitors can learn about this event and its impact on the nation through various exhibits and displays.

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, located in Washington, D.C., is a national institution dedicated to documenting, presenting, and studying the history of the Holocaust. It serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities committed during this period and aims to educate visitors about the events and their impact on the world.

The National Gallery of Art (NGA) is a prominent art museum in Washington, D.C. It is composed of two buildings, the East Building and the West Building. Both of these structures are situated on the National Mall, a significant location in the city. These two buildings are interconnected by an underground tunnel, providing easy access between the two.

The Smithsonian Castle, also known as the Smithsonian Institution Building, is a prominent structure located on the National Mall in Washington D.C., United States. It is situated behind the National Museum of African Art, making it a central point of interest for visitors exploring the area. The building's unique architecture and historical significance add to its appeal.

The House of the Temple, located in Washington, D.C., United States, is a Masonic temple that serves as the headquarters of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, Southern Jurisdiction, U.S.A. This significant location is a key site for those interested in the history and practices of Freemasonry, offering a unique insight into this secretive society.

The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is a museum located in Washington, D.C. and is part of the Smithsonian Institution. The museum's collection primarily focuses on contemporary and modern art, making it a great destination for art enthusiasts.

The Smithsonian American Art Museum, located in Washington D.C., is home to an extensive collection of American art. This collection covers all regions and artistic movements in the United States, making it a comprehensive representation of the country's artistic history.

The National Portrait Gallery, located in Washington D.C., is an art gallery managed by the Smithsonian Institute. It is a significant cultural institution that houses a collection focused on images of famous American figures. The gallery provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the rich history and culture of the United States through the portraits of its notable personalities.

Located on the National Mall, this museum is dedicated to spreading knowledge about native people - learn more about the history, culture, and art of Native Americans. The museum is home to artifacts from the entire Western Hemisphere and houses also a space for contemporary Native performances. The

The National Museum of the United States Navy, colloquially known as the U.S. Navy Museum, is the primary museum of the United States Navy. It is situated in the Washington Navy Yard in Washington D.C. The museum offers a comprehensive view of the naval history of the United States, making it a significant destination for those interested in maritime and military history.

The DAR Museum is an art and history museum located in Washington, D.C. It is managed by the Daughters of the American Revolution, a lineage-based membership service organization for women who are directly descended from a person involved in the United States' efforts towards independence. The museum is known for its extensive collection of over 30,000 objects that were made or used in America before the Industrial Revolution.

The Renwick Gallery, a part of the American Art Museum, is located in Washington D.C., United States. The gallery's focus is on American art and decorative arts, spanning from the 19th to the 21st century. This offers visitors a comprehensive view of the evolution of American art over the centuries.

The African American Civil War Memorial Museum is a significant landmark in the U Street district of Washington, D.C. It is dedicated to honoring the contributions of the 209,145 members of the United States Colored Troops (USCT) who fought for the Union in the American Civil War. The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of their stories and sacrifices.

The United States Navy Memorial, situated on 7th Street between Pennsylvania Avenue and Indiana Avenue in Washington, D.C., is a tribute to those who have served or are currently serving in the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marine. The memorial is maintained by the United States Navy Memorial Foundation, with support from the National Mall and Memorial Parks administrative unit of the National Park Service.

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site is situated at 1411 W Street, SE, in the neighborhood of Anacostia, to the east of the Anacostia River in Southeast Washington, D.C., United States. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the life and legacy of one of the most prominent African Americans of the 19th century, Frederick Douglass.

The Freer Gallery of Art, a part of the Smithsonian Institution, is a significant art museum that houses a diverse collection of art. The collection spans across various regions including East Asia (China, Korea, Japan), South Asia, India, Southeast Asia, Egypt, Greece, and the ancient Near East. It also includes American works, offering a wide range of art for visitors to explore.

The National Museum of African Art, a part of the Smithsonian Institution, is situated at the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This location is a hub of cultural and historical significance, making it an ideal spot for tourists interested in African art and culture.

Dumbarton Oaks is a historic mansion situated in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington D.C. This 19th-century Federal-style mansion is a significant landmark in the city, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The mansion's architecture and its location in the historic Georgetown neighborhood make it a fascinating destination for those interested in history and architecture.

The Mary McLeod Bethune Council House National Historic Site is situated in the Northwest region of Washington, D.C., specifically at 1318 Vermont Avenue NW. This historic site is a part of the Logan Circle Historic District, a well-known area in the city. The location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other notable sites, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the district.

The Lincoln Memorial is a monument dedicated to the American President Abraham Lincoln. It is situated in the extension of the National Mall in Washington. This location makes it a central point of interest for tourists visiting the city, as it is easily accessible and surrounded by other significant landmarks.

The Washington Monument, erected in honor of the first American president George Washington, is the tallest obelisk ever built, standing at over 169 meters tall. It was designed by Robert Mills and is made of marble, granite, and sandstone. This monument is a significant part of American history and a testament to the country's architectural prowess.

The Art Museum of the Americas (AMA), situated in Washington, D.C., holds the distinction of being the first art museum in the United States that primarily focuses on showcasing modern and contemporary art from Latin America and the Caribbean. This unique focus makes it a significant cultural destination for those interested in these specific art genres and regions.

The National Postal Museum, situated opposite Union Station in Washington D.C., is a unique institution that was established in 1993. The museum was founded through a joint agreement between the United States Postal Service and the Smithsonian Institution. This collaboration has resulted in a museum that offers a fascinating insight into the history and workings of the postal service, both nationally and internationally.

The Saint John Paul II National Shrine houses a permanent exhibit titled 'A Gift of Love: the Life of Saint John Paul II'. This exhibit provides an in-depth look into the life and legacy of Saint John Paul II. The shrine is also home to the Redemptor Hominis Church and the Luminous Mysteries Chapel. Both of these spaces are adorned with beautiful mosaic art designed by Rev. Marko Rupnik, S.J.

The Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, along with the Freer Gallery of Art, forms the national museums of Asian art of the Smithsonian Institution. These galleries are a part of the Smithsonian Institution, which is a group of museums and research centers administered by the United States government. The Sackler Gallery, founded in 1987, is named after Arthur M. Sackler who donated about 1,000 objects and $4 million for the construction of the museum.

The National Bonsai and Penjing Museum is situated within the boundaries of the National Arboretum, located in the northern part of Washington. This location offers visitors the opportunity to explore not only the museum but also the surrounding arboretum, which is home to a wide variety of plant species.

Anderson House, also known as Larz Anderson House, is a historic mansion from the Gilded Age. It is located at 2118 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, on Embassy Row in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C. This location is easily accessible and is surrounded by other points of interest, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

The National Archives Building, informally known as Archives I, serves as the headquarters for the National Archives and Records Administration. This significant location is situated north of the National Mall, at 700 Pennsylvania Avenue, Northwest, Washington. It is a key site for those interested in the history and governance of the United States.

The United States Capitol Visitor Center (CVC) is a significant addition to the United States Capitol. It serves as a meeting point and extension area for the US Congress, accommodating more than 4,000 tourists per day. The CVC is located beneath the east side of the Capitol, between the Capitol and 1st Street East, covering an area of 54,000 square meters spread over three underground floors.

Planet Word is a unique language arts museum that was inaugurated in Washington, DC, in October 2020. It offers a unique experience for visitors interested in language and its various aspects. The museum is a great place to learn about the history of the English language, how children acquire language, languages from around the world, and the use of language in music and advertising.

Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is a National Park Service site located in the north eastern corner of Washington, D.C., near the Maryland state border. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors from both states, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

Amazing institution dominating the Spanish-speaking neighborhood is truly a local cultural hub. Exhibitions or shows - something everyday.

The African American Civil War Memorial Museum is a significant landmark in Washington, D.C.'s U Street district. It pays tribute to the 209,145 African-American soldiers, along with about 7,000 white and 2,145 Hispanic soldiers, and approximately 20,000 unsegregated Navy sailors who fought for the Union in the American Civil War. The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of their contributions and sacrifices during this pivotal period in American history.

The S. Dillon Ripley Center, often referred to as the Ripley Center, is a significant part of the Smithsonian Institution series of museums. It is strategically located in the National Mall in Washington, D.C. This location makes it easily accessible to tourists who are exploring the city's rich history and culture.

Decatur House, located at 748 Jackson Place in Washington, D.C., is a historic house museum. It is named after its first owner and occupant, naval officer Stephen Decatur. This location offers a unique glimpse into the history of the United States, particularly the early 19th century.

The L. Ron Hubbard House, also known as the Original Founding Church of Scientology, is a writer's house museum and former Scientology church. It is located at 1812 19th Street NW in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C., United States. This historic building offers a unique insight into the life and work of L. Ron Hubbard, the founder of Scientology.

The Old Korean Legation Museum is a historic house museum situated in the Logan Circle neighborhood of Washington D.C. It is located at 15 Logan Circle NW, also listed as 1500 13th Street NW. This museum is a significant part of the city's history and offers a unique insight into the Korean heritage and its diplomatic history in the United States.

The National Museum of American Jewish Military History (NMAJMH) was established on September 2, 1958, in Washington, D.C. The museum's primary mission is to document and preserve the contributions of Jewish Americans to the peace and freedom of the United States. It serves as a testament to the courage, heroism, and sacrifices made by Jewish Americans who served in the armed forces.

The Chinese American Museum DC, also known as CAMDC, is a cultural institution located in Downtown Washington, DC. It was established through the combined efforts of The Chinese American Museum Foundation, private benefactors, and the general public. The museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and culture of Chinese Americans.

Situated on a hill known as Mount Saint Sepulcher, the Franciscan Monastery is anchored by the Memorial Church of the Holy Sepulcher. The complex includes gardens, replicas of various shrines throughout Israel, a replica of the catacombs in Rome, an archive, a library, and the bones of Saint Benignus of Armagh, which were brought from the Roman catacombs and originally located in the cathedral of Narni, Italy. These features provide a rich and diverse experience for visitors.

The Anacostia Community Museum, a part of the Smithsonian Institution, is located in the Anacostia neighborhood of Washington, D.C., United States. The museum was inaugurated in 1967 and has since been a significant cultural and historical hub.

The United States Botanic Garden (USBG) is a unique botanical garden that is managed by the Congress of the United States. It is conveniently located in Washington D.C., on the grounds of the Capitol near the Garfield Circle. This makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the city and looking to explore the diverse plant life that the garden has to offer.

The Interior Museum, operated by the United States Department of the Interior, is situated on the first floor of the Stewart Lee Udall Main Interior Building in Washington, D.C. This location is not only the headquarters of the department but also the home of the museum, making it a unique destination for visitors interested in the work of the department and the history of the United States.

The George Washington University Museum and Textile Museum is a unique institution located in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington, D.C. The museum is dedicated to the history of George Washington University and the art of textiles. It offers a unique blend of academic history and artistic exploration, making it a fascinating destination for tourists interested in both history and art.

The American University Museum is situated within the Katzen Arts Center at the American University in Washington, DC. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique blend of art and culture for visitors. The museum is a part of the university's commitment to promoting art and culture, making it a significant destination for art enthusiasts.

The Washington D.C. Historical Society, previously known as the Columbia Historical Society until 1988, is an educational foundation and museum that is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of Washington D.C. The society offers a variety of programs including lectures, exhibitions, classes, community events, and other educational programs as part of its mission. The society is located in the heart of Mount Vernon Square in Washington, and it occupies a Beaux Arts style building constructed by Andrew Carnegie in 1902.