Free museums in Washington, DC

Every one of these charges nothing, and most sit within a mile of each other on the Mall.

Bookmarks

1. National Air and Space Museum

   5/5

   The Wright Flyer and the Apollo 11 module in one building; go at opening.

   National Air and Space Museum, Washington

2. National Gallery of Art

   5/5

   The only Leonardo in the Americas, and a sculpture garden for after.

   National Gallery of Art, Washington

3. National Museum of African American History and Culture

   5/5

   Start three floors down and climb through the history; timed passes go fast.

   NMAAHC, Washington

4. National Museum of Natural History

   4/5

   The Hope Diamond, the giant squid, a live butterfly pavilion — kids’ first pick.

   National Museum of Natural History, Washington

5. National Museum of American History

   4/5

   The Star-Spangled Banner itself, kept in half-light, worth the queue alone.

   National Museum of American History, Washington

6. National Portrait Gallery

   4/5

   Presidents and pop culture; the glass-roofed courtyard is the best rest in town.

   National Portrait Gallery, Washington

7. Hirshhorn Museum

   4/5

   Contemporary art in a concrete ring, sunken sculpture garden included.

   Hirshhorn Museum, Washington

8. Renwick Gallery

   4/5

   Craft and design across from the White House, one ambitious room at a time.

   Renwick Gallery, Washington