Government Shutdown Closes Many D.C. Museums but Some Attractions Remain Open for Visitors

What's happening

The ongoing federal government shutdown has led to widespread closures of many prominent government buildings and museums in Washington, D.C., significantly affecting tourism in the nation’s capital. Key institutions such as the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, the Library of Congress, and the National Archives have all ceased operations since the shutdown began, leaving visitors unable to access these popular destinations. The Smithsonian museums, including the National Zoo and the National Gallery of Art, have also closed their doors, further limiting the range of free cultural attractions available to the public. These closures have disrupted the usual flow of tourists who come to experience the rich history and culture housed in these federally funded sites.

Despite these closures, not all cultural venues in Washington, D.C. have been shuttered. Some museums and attractions that do not rely on federal funding have remained open, offering visitors alternative opportunities to explore the city’s heritage and arts scene. These venues often charge admission fees but provide unique experiences away from the crowded tourist areas typically centered around the National Mall. For example, the Hillwood Museum and Gardens, once the residence of cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, showcases an impressive collection of Russian art and Fabergé eggs alongside beautifully maintained gardens with views of the Washington Monument. Such attractions provide a different perspective on the city’s cultural offerings during the shutdown.

Other notable open venues include the International Spy Museum, which delves into the history of espionage with exhibits on Cold War spycraft, and the Museum of the Bible, which offers free access to its first floor and paid admission for its upper levels. The National Building Museum, housed in a historic structure with a grand atrium, continues to welcome visitors with its rotating exhibits on architecture and design. Additionally, The Phillips Collection, an art museum focusing on Impressionist and modern art, remains accessible, as does the Washington National Cathedral, known for its Gothic architecture and peaceful gardens. These institutions provide a range of cultural experiences that remain available despite the federal shutdown.

What's at stake

The Holocaust Memorial Museum has announced that it will stay open through October 31, but its future operations are uncertain if the shutdown continues beyond that date. This museum is a significant site for education and remembrance, and its potential closure would be a notable loss for visitors seeking to understand this critical chapter of history. Meanwhile, outdoor monuments around the National Mall remain accessible, although indoor attractions such as the elevator to the top of the Washington Monument are closed. This partial access allows visitors to still engage with some of the city’s iconic landmarks, albeit in a limited capacity.

The main actors in this situation include federal agencies responsible for managing these cultural institutions, the federal employees affected by the shutdown, and the millions of tourists who visit Washington, D.C. each year. Government officials are currently unable to operate many of these sites due to funding lapses, while federal workers face furloughs or unpaid leave. Visitors, on the other hand, must adjust their plans and seek out alternative attractions that remain open. Local museums and private institutions have stepped in to fill some of the gaps left by federal closures, but the overall visitor experience is undeniably impacted.

The stakes are high for the city’s tourism industry, which relies heavily on the steady flow of visitors to federally funded museums and landmarks. Hotels, restaurants, and other businesses that cater to tourists may see reduced revenue as fewer people come to the capital or alter their itineraries. Additionally, the cultural and educational missions of many institutions are interrupted, limiting public access to important historical and artistic resources. For federal employees, the shutdown means financial uncertainty and disruption of their professional duties. The broader public also loses opportunities for civic engagement and learning during this period.

Looking ahead, the duration of the shutdown will largely determine how long these closures persist and how deeply the tourism sector is affected. If the government reopens soon, many of the closed institutions will resume normal operations, restoring access to the full range of cultural attractions. However, if the shutdown continues for an extended period, more institutions may face financial strain, and visitor patterns could shift more permanently. Travelers planning visits to Washington, D.C. are advised to check the status of specific attractions and consider exploring the open museums and venues highlighted during this period. The city’s diverse offerings still provide ample opportunities for cultural enrichment despite the challenges posed by the shutdown.

Why it matters

The federal government shutdown has forced the closure of many key museums and government buildings in Washington, D.C., limiting visitor access. Some museums that operate independently of federal funding remain open, offering alternative cultural experiences during the shutdown. The Holocaust Memorial Museum will stay open through October 31 but faces uncertainty if the shutdown continues.

Outdoor monuments remain accessible, but indoor attractions like the Washington Monument elevator are closed, affecting visitor options. The shutdown impacts tourism revenue and disrupts federal employees’ work, with broader effects on the city’s economy and cultural engagement.

Key facts & context

The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, Library of Congress, and National Archives closed at the start of the federal government shutdown. Smithsonian museums, including the National Zoo and National Gallery of Art, also closed due to the shutdown. The Holocaust Memorial Museum announced it would remain open through October 31 despite the shutdown.

Several non-federally funded museums, such as the Hillwood Museum and Gardens and the International Spy Museum, remain open. Outdoor monuments around the National Mall are accessible, but some indoor attractions are closed. Admission fees at open museums range from about $10 to $35, with discounts or free entry for federal workers.

The Folger Theatre, adjacent to the Library of Congress, continues Shakespearean performances and exhibits during the shutdown. The National Building Museum and The Phillips Collection remain open with regular hours and admission fees. Washington National Cathedral offers tours and concerts, with access to its gardens and grounds.

Visitors are encouraged to verify current hours and availability before planning visits amid the shutdown.

Timeline & key developments

2025-10-31: Visitors to D.C. Can Explore Open Attractions Amid Government Shutdown. Additional reporting on this topic is available in our broader archive and will continue to shape this timeline as new developments emerge.

Primary sources

• visitthecapitol.gov document
• loc.gov document
• archives.gov document
• nga.gov document

Further reading & references

• (Additional background links will appear here as we cover this topic.)