A child peers inside the National Museum of African American History, which was closed amid the partial federal government shutdown in January 2019 in Washington, D.C.
Mark Wilson/Getty Images
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Mark Wilson/Getty Images
Having experienced multiple federal government shutdowns, Washington, D.C.’s cultural and artistic venues are well-versed in the challenges these interruptions bring. Although many institutions have yet to release detailed plans, historical patterns suggest that numerous landmarks will close their doors during a shutdown. Nevertheless, visitors can still explore a variety of alternative attractions.
Here’s an overview based on previous shutdown occurrences:
Smithsonian Institution
With approximately 62% of its funding sourced from the federal government, the Smithsonian Institution’s 21 museums and the National Zoo are at risk of closing during a shutdown. This includes renowned sites such as the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of American History, the National Portrait Gallery, and the American Art Museum. However, depending on available financial reserves, some locations might remain open temporarily. For instance, in anticipation of a 2023 shutdown, the Smithsonian announced plans to utilize previous years’ funds to maintain public access. Visitors should check the Smithsonian’s official website for the latest updates.
While the National Zoo and the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Virginia, will continue to care for their animals, the popular live webcams showcasing pandas, lions, elephants, and naked mole-rats will be disabled. The Smithsonian explains that these webcams require federal personnel and resources to operate and broadcast.
Monuments and Memorials
Outdoor landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial will remain physically accessible during a shutdown, according to the National Park Service (NPS) guidance for 2024. The NPS has stated it will provide any changes or updates on its website. However, guided tours of significant federal sites like the U.S. Capitol and FBI headquarters are expected to be suspended. Congressional representatives, including Rep. Dwight Evans of Pennsylvania, have shared FAQs clarifying that visitor centers and tour guides for federal buildings are deemed non-essential and will close during shutdowns.
White House Tours
It’s important to note that White House tours remain suspended due to ongoing renovations of the President’s ballroom, independent of any government shutdown. For the most current information, visitors should consult the White House’s official website.
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
The Kennedy Center, a living tribute to President John F. Kennedy, receives federal funds primarily for staff salaries and building maintenance, while its events and performances are funded privately. Roma Daravi, a spokesperson for the Center, confirmed that programming will continue uninterrupted during a shutdown. Essential federal employees, such as maintenance workers, are also unaffected thanks to the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) legislation. This bill allocated $257 million for the Kennedy Center’s repairs and upkeep.
Ford’s Theatre
Ford’s Theatre operates as a public-private collaboration with the National Park Service. According to spokesperson Leah Yoon Frelinghuysen, daytime museum visits and access to the Petersen House, where President Abraham Lincoln passed away, will be closed during a shutdown. However, theatrical performances, exhibits related to Lincoln’s assassination aftermath, and the gift shop will remain open to the public.
Open Cultural Venues During a Shutdown
Several museums and cultural institutions in Washington, D.C., that do not depend on federal funding will continue welcoming visitors even if a shutdown occurs. Notable examples include:
- The National Building Museum
- The National Museum of Women in the Arts
- The Phillips Collection
