Is Washington, D.C. Open for Tourism?

By Alice Nichols

Are you planning a trip to Washington, D.C.? With the ongoing pandemic, you may be wondering if the city is open for tourism. Let’s take a look at the current situation and what you can expect when visiting.

Current Status

Washington, D. is currently open for tourism but with some restrictions in place. The city has been gradually reopening since June 2020, but visitors are still required to follow certain guidelines.

Mask Mandate

One of the main requirements for visitors is to wear a mask or face covering while in public spaces. This includes all indoor areas such as museums, restaurants, and stores, as well as outdoor spaces where social distancing cannot be maintained.

Capacity Limits

Another restriction that visitors should be aware of is capacity limits. Many attractions and restaurants are operating at reduced capacity to allow for social distancing.

What’s Open?

Despite these restrictions, there are still many attractions and activities that visitors can enjoy in Washington, D. Here are some examples:

  • National Mall: The National Mall is open for visitors to walk around and enjoy the monuments and memorials.
  • Museums: Many museums have reopened with limited capacity and timed-entry tickets.
  • Tours: Various tours of the city are available including bus tours and walking tours.
  • Parks: There are many parks throughout the city that are open for visitors to explore.

What’s Closed?

While many attractions have reopened, there are still some that remain closed due to the pandemic. These include:

  • The White House: Public tours of the White House are currently suspended.
  • U.S. Capitol: The U. Capitol building is closed to visitors.
  • The Smithsonian: Some Smithsonian museums and facilities remain closed, while others have limited hours and capacity.

Final Thoughts

Washington, D. is open for tourism, but visitors should be prepared for some restrictions and closures. It’s important to follow the guidelines in place to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you. With proper planning and precautions, you can still enjoy a memorable trip to our nation’s capital.