If you’ve ever visited Washington, DC, or are planning to visit Washington, DC, you’ll have noticed that many museums there are free. While this helps the bank balance, it is only natural to wonder why so many museums are free in Washington, DC.
Museums are free in Washington, DC, because they are funded by the federal government as a means of educating people for future generations, as requested by the founder, James Smithson. These museums contain a prolific amount of history to be learned and shared among the people of the US.
No matter what kind of museums are of interest to you, Washington, DC, will have one for free, and here’s why!
The Smithsonian Provides Monetary Support to the Museums in Washington, DC
The Smithsonian is a long-standing organization that gets its funding from the federal government. As well as funding various museums to provide free museums in Washington, DC, the Smithsonian also prides itself on its global presence and funding education, research, and zoos.
A large number of museums in Washington, DC, get funding directly from the Smithsonian. This allows museums to provide their services to the public free of charge. Not even the entry ticket cost is to be paid for, making the museum experience in Washington, DC free.
The Smithsonian was founded using the funds left behind by Englishman James Smithson. Although he had never visited the country, the value of his gift was tremendous. Even today, there is speculation about why Mr. Smithson left such a gift.
Whatever the reason for his endowment
, it is apparent that education in Washington, DC, be provided after Smithson’s death and using his money. This is why museums in Washington, DC, are free of charge.
Preserving History Through Museums in Washington, DC
Being both the federal district and capital city of the United States of America, Washington, DC has a lot to live up to.
Preserving history while learning from it and strengthening current values must be at the district’s forefront. What better way of doing so than by providing free education through the museums of Washington, DC?
Museums hold a lot of power and create a world of potential for each visitor through the door. That is why museums are free in Washington, DC.
Donations Help Maintain Museums in Washington, DC
The list of free museums in Washington, DC is huge, and it will take you more than one visit to the district to see all of them. Although free, each museum welcomes donations to help maintain the museum and stay open. However, there is no obligation to leave a donation.
Which Smithsonian Museums Are Free in Washington, DC?
The free museums in Washington are vast. Some of these include:
- National Postal Museum – allows you to enjoy learning about the history of postal services
- National Museum of American History – a fascinating museum with an array of collections and exhibits
- National Portrait Gallery – an assortment of art pieces dating from pre-colonial times to the modern day
- National Air and Space Museum – visit Washington, DC, for the world’s most extensive collection of aviation and space artifacts
- National Zoo – the perfect day out for all the family
- Freer Gallery of Art – consists of premier Asian art collections and an impressive array of works by James McNeill Whistler
Follow the Smithsonian Instagram account for the latest information on the Smithsonian and the projects they’re working on in Washington, DC, and across the globe.
Are the Smithsonian Museums in Washington, DC Free for All?
Yes! Any visitor to the Smithsonian Museums in Washington, DC, can enter for free. Regardless of if you live locally or if you’re a guest in the area, it doesn’t matter what age you are!
Get a Timed Pass To Secure Your Place
Although the Smithsonian museums in Washington, DC are free, you often need not reserve in advance. Washington.org suggests securing your timed pass for specific exhibitions or days of the week. Be sure to double-check this to ensure your visit goes smoothly.
The timed entry passes are still free of charge! Opening times and further information on passes can be found on the Smithsonian website, so be sure to check them, and don’t forget to keep all your passes and confirmation papers organized. I recommend the BOMKEE Waterproof Organizer (available on Amazon.com). Not only is it waterproof but also surprisingly durable, plus it has two external pockets for items that require easy access.
More Free Museums in Washington, DC
There are multiple other museums in Washington, DC that are entirely free of charge. These range from museums to historic buildings. Be sure to give yourself time during your visit to Washington, DC, so you can go to as many as possible!
The list below includes other free museums and places of interest and history to consider during your visit to Washington, DC:
- United States Holocaust Museum – a museum designed to battle hatred on an international scale
- Daughters of the American Revolution – honoring the patriots of the Revolutionary war through education
- The US Capitol Visitor Center – provides visitors an insight into the House, the history, the legislative, and the senate
- The National Bonsai Foundation – a wonderful place to escape the hustle and bustle while being educated on bonsai and penjing
What Else Is Free in Washington, DC?
Washington, DC will always have a reputation for its free museums, and it would seem like a crime for it to be any other way. However, there are still other points of interest during your visit to DC if you need a break from the museums for a day or two!
Trip Advisor is a great starting point, or reading through the Hungry Passport Washington, DC Travel Guide (available from Amazon.com) will help you plan everything.
Conclusion
Have you been on a visit to Washington, DC? Did you visit any of the museums in Washington, DC? What did you think?
I’m looking forward to your thoughts in the comments below!
