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Washington, D.C. FREEBIES Author: Barbara Hayo www.TrustedTours.com |
One of the most rewarding aspects of a visit to the nation’s capital is that a majority of the
incredible breadth of magnificent things to see and do are free. Government institutions, all 16 of the Smithsonian museums, the national memorials, and many lovely gardens and parks are open to the public at no charge.
The only thing to keep in mind is that the demand to experience this incredible array of cultural, historic and governmental venues is so high that many require either advance reservations, have a first come, first served, timed admittance, or you may have to wait in long lines to get in. Be patient. The result is worth the wait.
There are free events throughout town throughout the year. Local newspapers and magazines publish lists of events, restaurants and happenings throughout time. The Washingtonian and the Washington Post are two of the most recognizable ones, but there are many you can pick up in places around town. In these you’ll find schedules of popular events and hidden finds, some free, some not.
For a delightful evening, you might want to go to Dupont Circle neighborhood on the first Friday of each month to visit the many galleries hold opening receptions from 5 pm to 8 pm. You can see a wide range of original art, enjoy a glass of wine and nibble on food. Look for a list of galleries and directions to them in Galleries Magazine.
During the summer months, Washington offers a special treat enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Free summer concerts, performed by elite military bands, classical ensembles and jazz groups, take place somewhere in the district every afternoon or evening every day of the week. Offering a wonderful, relaxing respite from a hectic day of sightseeing, most are held outdoors, where sitting on a blanket in an absolutely lovely environment to enjoy music is one of Washington’s most memorable experiences.
A local favorite takes place on Friday nights in the summer. Join locals and bring a blanket to the lawn around the grand reflecting pool in the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden for the Summer Evenings of Jazz performed by top jazz artists.
Trust us, we've been there!
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