Washington D.C. Trips and Travel

A looming government partial-shutdown is a signal that elected officials have not yet agreed on how to fund the federal government. Its direct impacts vary depending on how long it lasts and which agencies are affected, but it often leads to furloughs, suspended services, and disruptions for both federal workers and the public. As of February 14, 2026, the U.S. government in under a partial-government shutdown. U.S. Congress is on a recess. The State of the Union address is planned for February 24, 2026. The U.S. Congress provides their schedule for the upcoming year. You can monitor which appropriations bills have passed at: Congress.gov Appropriation Status Table Travel During a Government Shutdown If there is a partial-shutdown, you can still travel in and out of Washington, D.C., via airports or trains. There may be delays at security checkpoints or train inspections, but most travel continues as normal. Impact on Travel to Washington, D.C. 1. Airports ...

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. ...