What does a U.S. Government Shutdown Means for Washington, D.C. Travelers?

Washington, D.C. is home to federal agencies, national museums, and iconic landmarks. So when a government shutdown is possible, travelers often wonder what will stay open and what may close? If you’re planning a trip to Washington, D.C. during a potential shutdown, here’s what you need to know about museums, monuments, national parks, airports, and federal services. Congress passed funding bills to address short-term funding for most federal agencies that expired January 31, 2026, requiring Congress to pass full-year spending bills or another temporary extension to avoid a government shutdown. When the United States Congress approaches its deadline to pass a U.S. funding bill, uncertainty surrounds the potential for a government shutdown. The official shutdown time for the U.S. federal government occurs at midnight Eastern Time (12:00 a.m. ET) on the day after funding expires if Congress has not passed and the President has not signed a spending bill or continuing resolution.

The U.S. President has signed most of the appropriations bills required to fund the federal government through September 30, 2026.

The Smithsonian is funded by a mix of federal appropriations and private support. It's FY 2026 operating budget was passed as part of the overall federal spending bill. The Department of Interior which funds the National Parks is funded until the end of this fiscal year, September 30, 2026.

On February 3, 2026, the U.S. government imposed stop-gap funding for the Department of Homeland Security. The U.S. Senate recommended pulling out the Department of Homeland Security funding appropriation to discuss reforms on Immigration and Border laws and the U.S.House. The U.S. President of the United States agreed to discussions until February 13, 2026. As of February 14, 2026, the U.S. government is under a partial-government shutdown. The U.S. Congress is currently in negotation on how to make changes to the Immigration and Border Protection policy. Whereas, the State of the Union address is Tuesday, February 24, 2026. The U.S. Congress provides their schedule for the upcoming year. Federal employees are generally paid every two weeks on Friday. Employees impacted by the partial government shutdown may miss a paycheck on Friday, March 6, 2026, covering the pay period from February 15–28, 2026. The partial-government shutdown may have an impact on travel in the coming weeks.

You can see which appropriations bills have passed at:

• CONGRESS.GOV APPROPRIATION STATUS TABLE

Washington, D.C. Travel Advisory During U.S. Government Partial Shutdown

A partial government shutdown occurs when lawmakers fail to pass funding bills, causing nonessential federal services to temporarily close and employees to be furloughed. When there is a partial government shutdown, travelers to Washington, D.C. may see some impact, but with the passing of the majority of the appropriation bills, the effects on tourism should be minimal. Major tourist attractions including National Parks and Smithsonian museums and institutions have secured funding through the end of September 2026.

1. Federal Museums and Memorials Remain Open
   Smithsonian museums, such as the National Air & Space Museum, National Museum of American History, and National Gallery of Art, continue to welcome visitors. National monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial, remain accessible in outdoor public areas.
2. National Parks and Visitor Centers
   National Parks in the D.C. area remain open. Visitor centers, restrooms, and guided tours are operating, although some services may be lightly impacted by reduced federal staffing.
3. Traffic and Transportation
   Public transit, including Metro and buses, continues to operate normally. Some government-run parking lots or services may have minor restrictions.
4. Tourism Services
   Tours relying on federal buildings, such as the U.S. Capitol, White House, or Library of Congress, may experience minor scheduling changes. Private hotels, restaurants, and shops are fully operational.
5. Tips for Travelers
   Check official websites before visiting specific attractions. Consider private tours or outdoor landmarks that are less likely to be affected. Be flexible, as minor changes in access or services may occur.