**Washington, D.C. Remains Open for Visitors Despite Federal Government Shutdown**
As the federal government shutdown continues into its fourth week since October 1, 2025, many Americans are left wondering how the closure of key federal institutions impacts daily life and tourism in the nation’s capital. In response, Washington, D.C.’s official tourism bureau, Destination DC (DDC), has launched its "DC is Open" campaign, assuring the public that the city remains vibrant and welcoming to both business and leisure travelers, despite the ongoing political stalemate.
### The ‘DC is Open’ Campaign: Promoting the Capital Amid Shutdown
The "DC is Open" campaign was first introduced during the 2013 government shutdown and again in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. Its primary goal is to dispel the common misconception that a federal shutdown means the entire city grinds to a halt. Elliott L. Ferguson, II, the president and CEO of Destination DC, emphasized that, “We understand that when the federal government shuts down, some visitors may assume DC does too, but that’s far from the truth.” According to Ferguson, fall is a particularly busy season for both convention and leisure travel in Washington. The campaign aims to reassure visitors that most of the city’s iconic attractions, hotels, restaurants, and cultural venues are still open.
### What’s Open and What’s Closed
While the federal government’s closure has certainly affected some of the city’s most famous attractions—most notably, the Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo, which are closed to the public—many other sites remain accessible. All open-air parks and memorials on the National Mall, such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, are still open. However, some visitor centers and ranger-led services at these sites are unavailable or limited due to the shutdown.
Private museums and attractions, which do not rely on federal funding, continue to operate as usual. Noteworthy examples include the Museum of the Bible, the National Building Museum, and the recently opened Advancing the American Dream museum. These institutions offer rich alternatives for visitors seeking educational and cultural experiences while the Smithsonian network is temporarily closed.
### The Capital’s Vibrant Hospitality and Culinary Scene
Destination DC is keen to highlight that the city’s acclaimed restaurants, hotels, and nightlife venues are not impacted by the federal shutdown. The campaign encourages visitors and residents alike to explore DC’s diverse food scene, suggesting everything from classic oyster bars like Hank’s to trendy Italian spots such as L’Ardente. Rooftop bars like POV atop the W Hotel and cozy patios in neighborhoods like Shaw are perfect for enjoying the city’s renowned brunch culture. The tourism bureau points out that “shutdowns don’t stop the brunch crowd,” and local restaurants welcome the continued support of patrons during this period.
The city’s hotels are also open and ready to accommodate visitors. With fall bringing in both convention-goers and tourists, there is no shortage of lodging options for those coming to explore the capital.
### Sporting Events and City Life Uninterrupted
Sports fans will find plenty to enjoy in Washington, D.C. during the shutdown. The city’s professional teams, including the NFL’s Washington Commanders and the NHL’s Washington Capitals, continue their seasons as scheduled. These events provide both locals and tourists with lively entertainment options, even as some federal attractions are temporarily unavailable.
Beyond sports, the city continues to buzz with theater performances, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals. DC’s nightlife and arts scenes are alive and well, offering a wide range of activities for every interest.
### Public Services and Transportation: Business as Usual
One of the biggest concerns for visitors during a government shutdown is the status of essential services. Destination DC reassures travelers that the city’s public transportation system, including the Metro, is running as normal. Sanitation services, public schools, city parks, and other ancillary DC government services are also fully operational. This means visitors can navigate the city, enjoy clean public spaces, and access local amenities without disruption.
### Exploring the National Mall and Beyond
While the shutdown means some federally-managed visitor centers are closed, the National Mall itself remains accessible—and arguably more peaceful than usual. The tourism bureau suggests that now is an ideal time to experience the city’s iconic monuments and memorials without the usual crowds. Recommendations include an early morning walk from the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial, when the soft