Planet Word
Find the latest status updates on attractions, museums, theater, festivals, events and more
365Թϲ, DC is open for business
The nation's capital is ready to welcome you even during a government shutdown (check out our guide to DC during a shutdown). While some federally funded attractions and sites may offer limited access, daily life in DC remains active, full of museums, restaurants and can't-miss things to do, including of America's 250th anniversary.
Shutdown Update
As of Jan. 31, 2026, a shutdown is underway, but unlike with past shutdowns, the impacts to visitors are limited, with many major attractions funded through Sept. 30 and remaining open. One major attraction that is closed due to the shutdown is the National Archives, however Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo, the National Gallery of Art and National Park Service sites remain operating as normal. Note: Some temporary closures may currently be weather-related rather than shutdown-related, due to the recent snowstorm. Travelers should continue checking this page for more updates.
Find things to do this week, weekend and month, plus guides to the best things to do during a shutdown and attractions ready to welcome visitors.
What's Open (most attractions)
Museums, Attractions & Tours
Museums & Attractions
National Park Service sites, monuments and memorials
Other museums, attractions and cultural institutes
Tours
Theater, Performances, Sports & Games
Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company
The show must go on: 365Թϲ, DC's theater scene is alive and well during a shutdown. Most venues do not receive federal funds.
Theaters & Playhouses
Music & Concert Venues
- The Anthem -
- 9:30 Club -
- Merriweather Post Pavilion -
- Lincoln Theatre -
- Sixth & I -
- Warner Theatre -
- CareFirst Arena -
- Cathedral Choral Society -
- DAR Constitution Hall -
- The Hamilton Live -
- Capital One Arena -
- Eckington Hall -
- Wolf Trap -
- The Fillmore Silver Spring -
- Strathmore -
- Songbyrd Cafe -
- Black Cat -
- Echostage -
- The Pocket -
- Union Stage -
- The Howard Theatre -
- Pearl Street Warehouse -
- DC9 Nightclub -
- Blues Alley -
Sports & Games
Parks, Gardens & Recreation
Open-air national parks like the National Mall and Rock Creek Park will remain accessible during the shutdown. With NPS being funded through Sept. 30, regular operations are expected during this shutdown. Learn more about DC's parks and gardens and find a list below of what is currently open.
Restaurants
Places to eat and drink remain open to the public and unaffected due to the shutdown. Due to the popularity of DC's dining scene, it's always recommended to reserve your table in advance online. Take your pick of award-winning restaurants, high-value spots, budget bites and more.
Shopping
Shopping and retail attractions affected by the shutdown are limited to museum gift shops that are closed. Shop around the District at Black-owned businesses, made-in-DC shops and LGBTQ-owned enterprises and others.
Hotels
and ready to welcome guests. You can also take advantage of special deals and peruse properties that are ideal for sports fans, history buffs, families with kids and guests looking for cool places to stay.
Transportation
Metrorail and Metrobus will operate as usual during a federal government shutdown. Travel Metro easily with becoming the first rail system in the U.S. to offer a full service, touch-free payment option at every single stop.
What's Closed
It's possible certain staff-led tours, visitor centers and other federal staffing delays may be occur.
- (Closed due to snow storm - reopening Feb. 6)
- (Closed due to snow)
Check here to learn the latest closed statuses.
Partner Content