Outside the Gate

National Museum of the American Indian

Experience culture at the National Museum of the American Indian, where free programming from storytelling and dance festivals to music performances by Native composers and classical musicians are available to audiences of all ages. Check website for performance schedule. The museum is located at 4th St. and Independence Ave. South West in Washington, D.C.

For more information, visit http://www.nmai.si.edu/home or call 202-633-1000.

National Museum of American History

Teach your kids and family about history at the National Museum of American History. When visiting, see the original “Star-Spangled Banner” that inspired our National Anthem, explore the history of the American presidency, and check out Dorothy’s red slippers in the permanent exhibition “National Treasures of Popular Culture.” For more information, visit http://www.americanhistory.si.edu.

National Museum of Women in the Arts

Head to the National Museum of Women in the Arts and view the only museum in the world that is dedicated exclusively to recognizing the work of women artists. On the first full weekend of every month for free admission with a Bank of America or Merrill Lynch debit and/or credit card. As part of Bank of America’s Museums on Us program, customers present their Bank of America or Merrill Lynch credit or debit card along with a photo ID to gain free general admission to the museum.

Washington Walks tour

Take a breath of fresh air while learning about Washington, D.C. neighborhoods on a Washington Walks tour. All tours are just $15/person, and themes range from "Memorials by Moonlight," a nighttime encounter with the National Mall memorials to "The Most Haunted Houses," featuring a look at the Octagon, Washington D.C.'s most ghost-filled residences. For more information, visit http://www.washingtonwalks.com.