If you are ever traveling and find yourself in our nation’s capitol, there are a plethora of awesome things to do and most of it is for free. If you ever find yourself in the D.C. area with your children, I highly recommend that you take in these sights. They will leave your children in awe and your pocketbook in tact.
- The National Zoo: One of the world’s best zoos and home to approximately 2,000 animals representing nearly 400 species, of which about a quarter are endangered; provides leadership in animal care, science, education, and sustainability. Hours 10:00 A.M.- 6:00 P.M., admission is free.
- The Lighting of the National Tree: The National Christmas Tree and the Pathway of Peace is illuminated each evening from dusk until 11 P.M. through January 1st. Seasonal displays include a yule log, a large-scale model train, and a Christmas manger. Musical performances by volunteer choirs and dancers will be held nightly on the Ellipse stage. Weeknight performances will be performed from 6-8:30 P.M. Tickets to the lighting ceremony are available for free via lottery.
- The National Museum of Natural History: Exhibitions on earliest human origins; development of world cultures; ancient and modern mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and sea creatures. Hours 10- 5:30, admission is free.
- The National Air and Space Museum: Twenty-three galleries exhibiting hundreds of aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, rockets, and other flight-related artifacts. Hours 10- 5:30, admission is free.
- National Museum of American History: Devoted to the scientific, cultural, social, technological, and political development of the United States. Hours 10- 5:30, admission is free.
- Tour the White House: Public tours of the White House are available. Requests must be submitted through one’s member of Congress. These self-guided tours are available from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM Tuesday through Thursday, 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM Fridays, and 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM Saturdays. Tours are scheduled on a first come, first served basis. Requests can be submitted up to six months in advance and no less than 21 days in advance. All White House tours are free of charge.
Photo Credit: Deborah Cruz
