Washington DC is a place that every American should see in their lifetime. Not only is this the home of our national government and President but it is also a great way of experiencing the country's culture right from our roots. Whether you're someone who spends your days working in a factory that makes heat shrink sleeves or are currently in school to become a lawyer there are sure to be some things to keep you interested and entertained while in the city. And you might be surprised at how many of them are offered completely free of charge.

While you may need to cough up ten dollars a person to see the Museum of Modern Art in New York or negotiate the huge crowds at the Louvre in Paris, taking in all that you can at the Smithsonian American Art Museum requires no emptying of your wallet. The same goes for the National Geographic Museum, the National Museum of Women in the Arts and the National Gallery of Art. If you're visiting from working with lofts for sale in Toronto than you might want to check each site's event calendar to see what they're hosting during your visit. You might find that there is a free concert or exhibit that will make it even more worth a visit.

If you're more a fan of things put together with electric cutters or big machines than you should head over to the National Air and Space Museum. You could also learn by walking through the downtown core of the city and visit sites like Union Station, the Old Post Office Pavilion, and the famous "Big Chair." You might also enjoy a stroll through Eastern Market on the weekend or a trip to the National Arboretum. Whether you're a visiting Toronto architect or a schoolteacher this is a great way to get out of your normal city surroundings and get back to nature.

Then of course there are all of the national sites that Washington DC is known for. If you're traveling with your family than you could take a picnic lunch with you to Washington Monument or head to the Lincoln Memorial. You could also spend the morning at the Library of Congress, where there is supposed to be a copy of every book in existence. The National Mall and Lincoln Park are also great choices no matter what age you are. A planned trip around the city free of charge could even be an alternative to the Valentines gift certificate that you get that special someone every year.