How to Visit Boston on a Budget

There's nothing like exploring a new destination, but the experience can often cost a pretty penny. But being on a budget doesn't mean you have to sacrifice your love of travel, and a trip to Boston is no different. Find out all you need to know to plan your vacation to Beantown without breaking the bank.

Instructions

1. Pick off-peak travel days. Whether you choose to fly, drive, or take the train, certain days of the week are automatically more expensive than others. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are usually more affordable than traveling on Thursdays or Fridays, so try to adjust your schedule accordingly. And with budget carriers Southwest and JetBlue servicing the Boston area, a cheap flight shouldn't be hard to find.

2. Reconnect with old friends. Translation? See if you can stay at a friend's place while in Boston. Taking them out for a nice "thank you" dinner will cost you much less than a hotel. If you don't know anyone in Boston to stay with, look at hotels in nearby suburbs. The majority of hotels outside of Boston are near a T-stop that will take you right into the city, and they cost considerably less than downtown accommodations.

3. Embrace public transportation. Driving or taking a cab to get around will only waste time and money that would be better spent elsewhere, and Boston has an excellent public transportation system (MBTA) that makes exploring the city simple and easy. And with the MBTA's unlimited day and week passes available ($9/day, $15/week), you can bounce around Beantown as much as you want without wasting your cash.

4. Keep an eye out for perks. Many businesses desperate for an edge with consumers have started offering perks that can save you plenty of money on your trip. For example, Bank of America offers free admission at over 70 museums across the country on the first weekend of every month. And the MBTA frequently runs tourist specials that combine admission to top attractions with your travel pass.

5. Two words: Freedom Trail. This tourist attraction in Boston is not only the most popular, but it's free. The Freedom Trail is a three-mile walk that begins at the Boston Commons and leads you to all the important historic monuments and destinations in Boston. There is a tourist information center at the beginning of the trail that offers brochures and guides for navigating the trail, and background information on the sites as well. Guided tours are available, but because the trail is so well marked and easy to follow, you might prefer the option of exploring the trail at your own pace.

6. Find free stuff. Museum prices can range anywhere from $5-$10, but certain days and times are free so make sure to check out individual museum policies and specials. Also, summertime in Boston is full of great events that are often free to the public. For example, Commonwealth Shakespeare, a theatre company, hosts plays in the Boston Common Park. And certain attractions are always free -- like touring the Harvard campus, wandering through Faneuil Hall, window shopping on Newbury Street, and soaking up some sun in the harbor.

Tips & Warnings

• Try to go easy on lunch so you have more money to spend on dinner. Street vendors with tasty snacks can be found near all the top attractions, and taking a sandwich to the park is another great option.

• The MBTA stops running shortly after midnight, so plan ahead if you're staying out late.