What to Do in DC During a Shutdown? Don‘t Miss These Hidden Gems!

Another day of spontaneous urban exploration ✨ Federal shutdown closed all the national museums? No worries! These low-key but fascinating attractions remain open. 💎 Bureau of Engraving & Printing Tour Finally checked off the free "money factory" tour from my bucket list! Weekday-only access made this extra special. 🔹 Booking Tips: Advance registration recommended, but limited same-day tickets released at 8 AM on weekdays (Monday had plenty available) 🔹 Important Notes: Security check required; water permitted but strict no-phone policy Staff will repeatedly remind you to enable airplane mode Gift shop sells discontinued $100,000 bill replicas (Chinese-made but beautifully designed) 💎 The People‘s House Opened just in September 2024! This interactive White House experience features: 🎭 First Lady‘s holographic welcome message 🖼️ Immersive recreations of Blue Room, Oval Office, and more 📚 Interactive bookshelf (each book triggers thematic audio presentations) 👨‍🍳 Behind-the-scenes profiles of White House staff (including pastry chef since 1995!) 📸 Green screen photo booth with pose guidance (results exceed expectations) 💎 Federal Triangle Heritage Trail Walk this historic triangular zone to discover: • National Archives (view the original Declaration of Independence) • Ronald Reagan Building • Steps away from FBI Headquarters 🌟 Pro Tip Always verify operating hours on official websites. Perfectly paired with Georgetown shopping and Tidal Basin cherry blossoms for a shutdown-proof itinerary! #DCShutdownGuide #HiddenGems #WashingtonDC #OffTheBeatenPath