Updated
Updated · FOX 5 DC · Aug 16
D.C. Closes Roads Through Sept. 3 for Freedom 250 as 3 Smithsonian Museums Restrict Access
Updated
Updated · FOX 5 DC · Aug 16

D.C. Closes Roads Through Sept. 3 for Freedom 250 as 3 Smithsonian Museums Restrict Access

3 articles · Updated · FOX 5 DC · Aug 16

Summary

  • Aug. 21-23 race preparations have already shut streets around the National Mall, with additional closures starting Aug. 18 and some restrictions lasting until Sept. 3.
  • Three Smithsonian museums inside the Grand Prix ticket-only zone — Air and Space, the American Indian museum and Natural History — will require race tickets for Saturday and Sunday visits.
  • Friday museum visitors will not need Grand Prix tickets, but must enter through designated gates nearest the event perimeter.
  • The inaugural Freedom 250 Grand Prix will also enforce a clear-bag rule capped at 12 by 6 by 12 inches and ban items including aerosols, firearms, food and most large bags.

Insights

With race week starting today, are tourists completely locked out of D.C.’s biggest museums this weekend without a Grand Prix ticket?
Why is the Freedom 250 Grand Prix forcing Reagan National Airport to suddenly halt all flights during Sunday's massive street race?
Will the roaring engines of a high-speed IndyCar circuit threaten the historic preservation of the National Mall this week?