The government shutdown couldn't have come at a worse time for D.C. Its $11 billion tourism industry is bracing for impact.

The article discusses the impact of the ongoing government shutdown on Washington, D.C.'s tourism industry, which is facing significant challenges as key government-funded museums and facilities close or operate with limited resources. As of October 11, several attractions, including the Smithsonian museums, are expected to remain closed, potentially leading to cancellations of planned visits and a decline in revenue for local businesses reliant on tourism. The president and CEO of Destination DC, Elliott L. Ferguson, highlights that the shutdown could have a more severe economic impact than the previous record-long shutdown in late 2018 and early 2019, particularly during peak travel months. The article also features perspectives from visitors who are eager to experience the city's attractions before they close indefinitely. [Extracted from the article]