Government shutdown

Question

We were planning a trip to DC from NY around the time the cherry blossoms bloom in a couple weeks, but now it appears there will likely be a government shutdown on March 14 and who knows how long it would last given the current political climate. If there is a shutdown, will DC still be worth visiting or will most of the museums monuments etc be closed?

Answer

Visiting Washington DC during a government shutdown can be a mixed experience. Many federal agencies and services may close or operate with limited staff, which can affect access to museums, monuments, and national parks. However, not everything in DC is federally run or directly impacted.

Here’s what to expect and plan for:

National parks and monuments: During a shutdown, staffed national sites such as the Smithsonian museums may close or have limited access. Outdoor monuments, such as the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and World War II Memorial, are technically still accessible since they are open-air, but facilities like restrooms, visitor centers, and guided tours will likely be closed.
Smithsonian museums: Most Smithsonian museums are federally funded and usually close during a shutdown. This includes favorites like the National Air & Space Museum, National Museum of American History, and National Museum of Natural History.
Other attractions: Private museums, galleries, and commercial attractions remain open. Examples include the International Spy Museum, Newseum (if operating), and National Geographic Museum. Restaurants, shops, and walking tours are not affected.
Cherry blossoms: The Tidal Basin and outdoor areas are still open to the public. You can enjoy the blossoms without needing museum access, though amenities may be limited.

Other considerations:

Public transportation (Metro and buses) remains operational.
Many guided tours offered by private companies continue even during a shutdown.
Plan for flexibility. Check online sources right before your trip to confirm what is open.

In summary, a shutdown will affect most indoor, federally run attractions, but outdoor monuments, parks, and privately operated sites remain available. DC can still be worth visiting if you focus on outdoor activities, the cherry blossoms, private museums, and other non-federal attractions. It may also be less crowded due to closures, which can make for a quieter, more relaxed experience.

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