How to Visit Washington, DC on a Budget

Out of all the American travel destinations, Washington, DC boasts the largest selection of historical attractions. Visitors from all over the world flock to the nation's capital to explore the White House, monuments and memorials. You don't have to spend big bucks to have a truly worthwhile vacation in Washington, DC.

Instructions

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

2. Reconnect with old friends. See if you can stay at a friend's place while in town. Taking them out for a nice "thank you" dinner will cost you much less than a hotel. If you don't know anyone to stay with, look at hotels in nearby suburbs. The majority of hotels are near a Metro train 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 Washington, DC, has several methods of public transportation that make exploring the city simple and easy. You can take the bus, subway or Metro rail to every corner of the area, and a variety of day and week passes are available so you can bounce around DC 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 Metro, the main public transportation system, frequently runs tourist specials that combine admission to top attractions with your travel pass.

5. Find the free attractions. There are several major sights in the city that are completely free, so you can easily avoid paying admission prices. The Arlington National Cemetery, Capitol Building, National Mall, Ford’s Theater, Library of Congress, National Air & Space Museum, National Geographic Museum, and all the memorials are just some of your budget-friendly options.

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 Metro rail stops running shortly after midnight, so plan ahead if you are staying out late.