Coworking is a great way to get out of the house, network, and learn from others, especially for the freelancers and contractors among us. Sometimes you just can’t stand another work-from-bed day (not that I know this from experience…) and need somewhere to escape to. While so many of D.C.’s coworking spaces offer clean aesthetics, perks, and more, we can’t all afford the membership fees. Fear not, freelancers: Here are the best coworking spaces in D.C. where you can snag a spot for free. 

Tryst - Adams Morgan

Tryst photo courtesy of Alex Guerrero

Tryst’s coffee shop in Adams Morgan is a classic place to sit and work. Once inside you can grab a flavorful, rich brew, take a seat on a plush velvet couch, and enjoy the relaxed vibe of the space. Tryst calls itself “D.C.’s community living room,” and for good reason. The perfectly worn-in seating, old fireplace, and wide-open seating area make this coffeehouse feel welcoming and cozy. Despite the fact that a coffeehouse is a bit of a cliche as far as work space goes, this place is nearly the opposite of what your run-of-the-mill Starbucks is like.

Pros include readily available Counter Culture coffee (some of the best coffee I’ve ever had), delicious pastries, and a full menu of goodies. 

Kogod Courtyard - Downtown

Photo courtesy of Kogod Courtyard

Part of the Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery in Downtown, the Kogod Courtyard is the perfect space for a meeting or brainstorm. This area certainly isn’t the best for those looking for a calm, quiet workspace. Tourists often pass through, chatting, taking photos, and meeting up with other groups. However, this grand and beautiful space is great if you’re working collaboratively with a group and can endure a bit of noise. Free Wi-Fi throughout the space also makes this space super easy to work from.

Pros include a conveniently placed cafe for coffee and lunch, proximity to the always enjoyable National Mall, and an incredible space that will look amazing in Instagram shots. 

The Library at the House of the Temple of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry - Logan Circle

The Library at the House of the Temple of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry photo courtesy of JB 

The name might be a mouthful, but don’t worry — you really shouldn’t be talking much in here.  The Library at the House of the Temple of the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry somehow manages to be one of the lesser-known features of Logan Circle. The building looks more like a temple found in ancient Greece than modern-day D.C. According to the library’s website, it was the first library in the District and is still open to the public to this day. You can go on a tour or snag a seat in the reading room and enjoy some peace and quiet. 

Pros include a nearly pin-drop silence and the feeling that you’re in another world altogether.

D.C. Public Libraries - Across The District

Photo courtesy of Georgetown Library

When all else fails, go to a place you remember from your childhood. The D.C. public library system has libraries throughout the District, with the newest built just north of Washington Circle. My library — the Georgetown branch — is located next to the aptly named Book Hill Park. This park is a perfect spot to read or write in nature. If you’re in desperate need of technology, you can use a computer or make copies and scans, all for free or pennies if you have a library card. I was once stuck in a bind, having forgotten to renew my car registration. I didn’t have internet yet in the new apartment, but was able to sign up for a library card, get my registration done, and print out my temporary stickers.

Pros include free access to Lynda.com digital training tools online, which offer a wealth of information on everything from website design to Google Analytics and more. You can also borrow ebooks on your Kindle or go the old-fashioned route and borrow a hardcopy of a new best seller.