News Summary
Washington, D.C. is currently dealing with a government shutdown, causing disruptions to services and attractions. Federal workers are facing uncertainty as several popular museums, including the Smithsonian institutions, may close if the shutdown continues. While some attractions remain open and independent venues offer discounts to federal employees, many federal sites—including libraries and museums—are temporarily shutting their doors. Local businesses are extending support to affected workers, providing community activities and discounts, but the long-term effects of the shutdown remain a concern.
Washington, D.C. is grappling with the effects of a government shutdown that is disrupting services and attractions in the area. As the shutdown progresses, thousands of federal workers are facing uncertainty, and several popular museums and attractions may close if the situation persists.
The Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo will remain open through Saturday, October 11. However, should the government shutdown continue past that date, the 21 Smithsonian museums and the zoo will close starting Sunday, October 12. Meanwhile, the Kennedy Center plans to stay open, offering free performances on its Millennium Stage. Open-air memorials like the World War II Memorial are still accessible for visitors, though visitor centers may be shut down.
The Washington Monument remains open, but visitors will not be able to ride to the top until normal operations resume. At Arlington National Cemetery, the grounds are still open, but the Arlington House and its facilities, including restrooms, are closed. In light of these closures, many private attractions, theaters, and parks in the D.C. area remain operational.
Available Attractions
The Phillips Collection in Dupont Circle is offering a discounted admission rate of $10 for federal workers who present their ID. Additional private museums, such as The Kreeger Museum, the National Museum for Women in the Arts, and the Rubell Museum, will also remain open to the public. Visitors can enjoy the Glenstone Museum in Potomac, Maryland, which is free but requires advance ticket reservations.
However, visitors to the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center should be aware that it is closed, and all tours have been canceled. Tours of the White House were already suspended due to ongoing construction. The People’s House: A White House Experience continues to offer visitors opportunities to learn about the Executive Mansion and allows access to an Oval Office replica, but reservations are required.
Libraries and Special Activities
All buildings of the Library of Congress are closed, and events like Live at the Library have been temporarily canceled. Language enthusiasts can visit Planet Word, where a suggested donation of $15 is welcome, along with special activities. The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library is offering exhibitions and events, while the Folger Shakespeare Library provides hands-on activities and exhibits for visitors.
The U.S. Botanic Garden is closed until the government shutdown is resolved, but its educational programs are available online. Visitors can explore other botanical attractions; Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, Virginia, charges an admission fee of $4-$8, while Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, Maryland, is free to enter. The Bishop’s Garden at the National Cathedral and Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown, which charges $17.79, are also open for public enjoyment.
History and History Exhibits
For those interested in American history, Anderson House (admission $6-$12), George Washington’s Mount Vernon (admission free to $28), and the DAR Museum (free) remain accessible. The National Museum of American History will also continue operations through at least October 11. While the Washington Monument is accessible, indoor visits and rides to the top are currently unavailable.
Other popular sites like the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial remain available for visits. However, the Ford’s Theatre Museum and Petersen House are closed, though the historic site’s Aftermath Exhibits and Penny Café are open for visitors. The Congressional Cemetery offers guests a self-guided Presidential Walking Tour focused on President Abraham Lincoln’s history, and the Go-Go Museum and Café highlights the story of D.C.’s homegrown music genre.
Support for Federal Workers
As federal workers navigate difficulties due to the shutdown, local organizations have stepped up to provide support, offering activities such as discounted classes, crafting circles, and social events designed to foster community. Various local businesses are promoting free craft supplies and discounted food and drink specials for federal workers who show their IDs.
Additionally, free live shows and concerts are scheduled throughout the city at venues including Dupont Circle Park and Big Bear Café. Exclusive deals are also available for federal employees, featuring discounted tickets to theater shows and sporting events during this challenging time.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
National Gallery of Art Temporarily Closes Amid Shutdown
Washington D.C. Prepares for Moderate Recession
Federal Government Faces Historic Shutdown
Washington D.C. Marriage Services Disrupted by Government Shutdown
Federal Government Shutdown Affects Hundreds of Thousands
Washington D.C. Faces Economic Downturn Amid Job Losses
Legislative Action Urged to Address School Closures in West Virginia
Federal Government Shutdown Leaves Thousands Furloughed
Washington Leaders Warn of Economic Fallout from Tariffs
Washington D.C. Faces Government Shutdown Impact
Additional Resources
- NBC Washington
- Wikipedia: Government Shutdown
- Washington Post
- Google Search: Washington DC government shutdown
- Art News
- Google Scholar: government shutdown impacts
- WUSA9
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Government Shutdown
- Axios
- Google News: government shutdown 2025
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER The WASHINGTON DC STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWashingtonDC.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Washington, DC, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and regional news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Kennedy Center Honors, and the Washington Auto Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Washington Board of Trade and Destination DC, plus leading businesses in government contracting and technology that power the local economy such as Lockheed Martin and Amazon. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic landscape of the Washington metropolitan area.
