The initiative, originally launched in 2013 and revived during previous shutdowns, aims to counter the perception that a federal government closure affects the city’s tourism infrastructure. DDC emphasizes that the vast majority of Washington’s attractions, hotels, restaurants, and events remain open and unaffected.
“We acknowledge the false perception that when the federal government shuts down, DC does too. We want visitors to know most of DC’s attractions and experiences actually remain open,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, President and CEO, DDC. “Fall is a busy season for convention and leisure travel, so we’re spreading the word that visitors can still enjoy iconic attractions, stay in our incredible hotels, dine in our acclaimed restaurants and experience theater, sports, nightlife, arts and cultural events.”
Tourism’s economic importance
Tourism continues to play a vital role in DC’s economy. In 2024, the city recorded 27.2 million visitors, generating $11.4 billion in visitor spending and $2.3 billion in tax revenue, while supporting 111,500 jobs. Tourism-related revenue also helped save DC households an average of $3,608 in taxes, according to data from MMGY Travel Intelligence, S&P Global Market Intelligence, and the U.S. Department of Commerce. Updated figures for 2025 will be released in May 2026.
Campaign details and travel guidance
The “DC is Open” campaign directs visitors to washington.org/dcisopen, where they can find updates, travel deals, and a list of over 100 open attractions. Paid search, social media, and digital advertising will further amplify the campaign’s message, with real-time updates posted using the hashtag #DCisOpen.
Attractions and experiences remain accessible
Most major outdoor monuments and memorials on the National Mall remain open, along with all free Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo, at least through October 6, and the National Gallery of Art through October 4.
Other open attractions include the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream, National Building Museum, Folger Shakespeare Library, National Museum of Women in the Arts, Phillips Collection, Rubell Museum, Washington National Cathedral, Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens, Tudor Place, and the National Children’s Museum. Popular interactive venues such as Planet Word, The People’s House, Museum of the Bible, Museum of Illusions, and the International Spy Museum are also unaffected.
Hotels, dining, and events fully operational
Washington, DC’s hotels remain open and ready to welcome guests. Named one of Condé Nast’s Best Culinary Cities in the World for 2025, the city offers more than 2,200 restaurants, including 25 Michelin-starred and 26 Bib Gourmand venues. The “Together We Dine” initiative – organized by the Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington – encourages both residents and visitors to support local dining throughout October.
The city’s sports calendar remains active, featuring the Washington Capitals’ season opener on October 8, Washington Wizards’ home opener on October 26, and DC United’s final home match on October 4. The Washington Spirit continue their playoff campaign, while the Capital City Go-Go open their NBA G League season on November 12.
In the performing arts, Theatre Week runs through October 5, offering discounted tickets to more than 20 shows citywide. Notable productions include Merry Wives at Shakespeare Theatre Company, The Great Privation at Woolly Mammoth Theatre, and a reimagined Damn Yankees at Arena Stage.
Conventions and transport unaffected
The Walter E. Washington Convention Center remains open and will host two major citywide conventions in October: the Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting and Exhibition (Oct. 13–15) and the American Dental Association’s SmileCon (Oct. 23–25). Other event spaces, including the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center, are also operating as usual.s
Public transportation, including Metro services, continues without disruption, and DC government operations such as sanitation, schools, and parks remain functional.
Through its proactive “DC is Open” campaign, Destination DC seeks to ensure that business and leisure travelers alike recognize that Washington remains a vibrant, welcoming, and fully operational destination, even amid temporary federal closures.
Tags: Elliott L. Ferguson, II, Destination DC (DDC)
