Too often people decide not to take a vacation because they can’t afford it. The good news is fun and adventurous getaways don’t have to break the bank. Washington DC offers a wide variety of activities and attractions free of charge. Here are 5 bucket list worthy things to do that won’t cost a dime.

1. Start your DC adventure at the National Mall
   Did you know the National Mall is a National Park? In fact, it’s the most visited National Park in the country. Nicknamed America’s Front Yard, the National Mall stretches 2 miles with the Lincoln Memorial and the United States Capital sitting at each end and the Washington Monument in the middle. The World War II Memorial, National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution Museums are only a few other popular attractions that can be found in America’s Front Yard at no cost.


2. Step back in time at Ford’s Theatre
   Ford’s Theatre is the site of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination that occurred April 14, 1865. The historical monument is now a museum and a live theatre that celebrates Lincoln’s life and legacy. Tourists can explore the museum’s exhibits that feature artifacts from the start of Lincoln’s presidency to the aftermath of his assassination, including the murder weapon.


3. Visit Arlington National Cemetery
   Pay respects to America’s fallen military heroes at Arlington National Cemetery. The military cemetery is the final resting place for more than 400,000 veterans who served in World Wars I and II, Vietnam and Korean Wars, America’s Civil War, the Cold War, as well as Iraq and Afghanistan. Be sure to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Solider and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. The iconic tomb is guarded 24 hours a day 365 days a week by Tomb Guards known as sentinels.


4. Learn how money is made
   Have you ever wanted to see a million dollars? The U.S Bureau of Engraving and Printing offers free 40-minute tours where you can observe millions of dollars being printed as you walk through the gallery that overlooks the production floor. The tour includes a video that gives an overview of the Bureau and how it operates, as well as exhibits that dive deeper into the history of money making. The Bureau only produces U.S. dollars while coins are made by the United States Mint.


5. Go off the beaten path
   Explore some of Washington DC’s hidden treasures that add a unique experience to your itinerary. Take some Instagram worthy photos with a larger-than-life statue of Albert Einstein at the Albert Einstein Memorial or with a huge 19-foot chair in the Anacostia neighborhood. Scary movie lovers can visit the staircase from the 1973 Exorcist film located in Georgetown, a nearby DC neighborhood. Or strike a pose in front of the many colorful murals around the city.

Note, before you go make sure to check what attractions are open, have adjusted hours or limited capacity.

A AAA Travel Consultant can help you plan and book your vacation.

Find Washington DC-area road trips at AAA.com/RoadTrips/MidAtlantic. Use your AAA membership for exclusive discounts and savings when you rent a car at AAA.com/Hertz or, if you plan to use your own car, schedule your pre-road trip checkup for your car at a AAA Approved Auto Repair shop to make sure everything is in working order.