What’s open during a government shutdown? A federal shutdown can throw a wrench in life and family plans. No more visits to Smithsonian museums, the National Zoo, or other federally run attractions. But the Washington, DC area has a plethora of other fun things to do with privately funded museums, playgrounds, play areas, theaters, and more. As a bonus, a lot of places are offering discounts for admission to federal employees.
Here are 25+ places to visit with kids during the government shutdown. Plus lots of bonus places too!
Top 25 Places to Visit During the Government Shutdown
1. LEGO® Discovery Center Washington, DC
We love LEGO Discovery Center in Springfield, Virginia with more than two million LEGO bricks, places to create and explore, a train ride, 4D cinema, climbing structure, and more! Kids have a blast in this safe environment. LEGO Discovery is perfect for ages 0–12 and guarantees hands-on fun and colorful memories.
2. National Children’s Museum
Located in the Ronald Reagan Building, the beloved National Children’s Museum offers families hours of play! This museum combines science, technology, engineering, and art with interactive exploration. Curious children who like hands-on activities feel right at home here. Plus, their climbing structure and mega slide is top notch! Whatsmore, there are spaces for babies, toddlers, and bigger kids.
3. Planet Word Museum
Planet Word is open during shutdowns. This museum focused on the power of language has voice-activated exhibits, interactive experiences, storytelling, and wordplay. Children and parents enjoy the immersive exhibits that bring reading and communication to life. This is a FREE Museum, but tickets are required.
4. International Spy Museum
Federal workers get 50% off admission at the door. Older kids love the Spy Museum because it is an unforgettable adventure. Take on a secret mission, explore espionage artifacts, and learn about real spies through interactive exhibits.
9. The National Building Museum
Federal Workers get FREE one day admission! This architectural landmark showcases design, cities, and community building. Children love its large-scale play areas and seasonal exhibits. The museum’s airy Great Hall also makes it an inspiring and pretty spot to visit.
6. National Aquarium
Located in Baltimore, Maryland, the National Aquarium is a full day of adventure with several floors of exhibits showcasing a myriad of aquatic wildlife. Get close to jellyfish at the Jellies Invasion, or touch jellyfish at the living seashore, walk through shark alley, or get entranced by Tropical Rainforest or Australia: Wild Extremes.
7. Hillwood Estate, Museum, & Gardens
Need a day date idea during the shutdown? This is it! Government Workers get FREE admission with their ID. Enjoy peaceful surroundings with Hillwood’s art museum, architecture, and nature. The 13 acres of fall gardens are open year-round and inside find a grand home with unique art and artifacts that match!
8. Folger Shakespeare Library
Near Capitol Hill, the Recently renovated Folger Shakespeare Library is open for visitors and performances. Older kids can explore exhibits about Shakespeare’s works, early modern history, and the power of storytelling. This calm reflective space is FREE to visit! Also, the reading room looks a lot like something in Harry Potter books.
9. Museum of the Bible
Get 50% off admission for Federal Workers and active Military with an ID. Have a blast with kids in the children’s play area, see what life was like in the first century, and see artifacts and priceless documents. The gift shop and cafe are worth a visit too!
10. The People’s House: A White House Experience
This FREE immersive museum near the White House invites families to step inside the history and traditions of America’s most famous home. Sit in the Oval Office, see a mini replicas of White House rooms, roam through a state dinner, and learn through interactive exhibits and multimedia displays. Reserve free tickets online.
16. Bowling Alleys
17. Escape Rooms
18. Local theaters like Adventure Theater or Imagination Stage
20. Monuments on the National Mall
21. Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream
22. National Museum of Women in the Arts
23. Art Museum of the Americas (AMA)
Tips for Visiting Places During a Government Shutdown
- Check websites before visiting to confirm places are open.
- Reserve tickets in advance to avoid lines and ensures access.
- Pack snacks and water to be prepared.
- Have a conversation with your children about how some museums are privately funded and others are funded by the government.
- With fewer tourists in the area, that means fewer crowds and easier parking!
Even though there is a government shutdown, Washington, DC is still very open for family fun. While this unexpected closure feels uncomfortable, this is also an opportunity to explore new spaces as a family.
