Washington D.C. is more than just the central hub and capital of the United States of America, it is an international mecca where every corner has great food, exciting exhibits, awesome live events, and historical monuments. Located along the banks of the Potomac River, Washington D.C. is nestled between neighboring states Virginia and Maryland in the Northeastern part of the U.S. This political capital is also a hot travel destination that brings upwards of 20 million visitors each year. There is something for every type of traveler in D.C. With so much to do and see, it can be overwhelming to plan a cohesive trip and maintain a modest budget Read on to see some ways of saving money in “The District.”
5 Ways to Save in the Capital City of Washington D.C.
Skip the Flight:
Washington D.C. is located between the states of Virginia and Maryland, and is one of the biggest travel hubs in the Northeast. With smaller surrounding states and excellent public transportation options, you can easily find great deals to travel by bus or train to D.C. Ground travel is not only less hassle than having to deal with exhaustive TSA lines and the exhaustion of flying, but it is a much more affordable option, too. Check out Go Buses for a selection of bus routes connecting to D.C. through most of the major metropolitan cities in the Northeast.
Stay on the Outskirts:
Washington D.C. is on the smaller side of a metropolitan area, which can increase city hotel and accommodation costs. Consider staying in a nearby town as an option. Maryland and Virginia have many towns that can provide a place to unwind after a day of seeing the sites at a more affordable price tag. For example, Bethesda, Maryland, is located just outside of D.C.’s Georgetown neighbourhood. You can take a bus from New York City to Bethesda, stay in affordable lodgings there, and then take a walk or take the metro into the District when you’re up for sightseeing.
Visit the Monuments:
Some of the most iconic landmarks in Washington are its impressive monuments, and luckily, these are free to visit!
Most monuments are clustered at the western end of The National Mall which stretches roughly 2 miles from the Lincoln Memorial to the U.S. Capitol building. The Mall is home to various monuments that mark important moments and figures in U.S. history. Check out this area at night to see the memorials lit up against the dark night sky, or plan to visit in the spring when cherry trees are in bloom.
Visit the Free National Museums:
Most of the 60+ museums in Washington D.C. are entirely free, so definitely add a trip to these major attractions to your itinerary. See some of the mainstream sites, from the Smithsonian’s Museum of Natural History to the National Gallery of Art, and get lost in the exhibits at the Library of Congress or National Air and Space Museum. Keep an eye out for some food court options in the museums where you can get a great deal on a low-cost no-fuss food option as a bonus.
Skip the Rental Cars and Cabs:
Washington D.C. is a fairly walkable city, and truth be told, cars and cabs can get caught in the gridlock of the neverending traffic. Opt to use the extensive bus and metro system to maneuver through the city! You can visit the Washington D.C. public transit site to see the latest times and routes that will serve you most on your trip.
You’ll love having a full wallet while you meander along the Mall, soak in the history at the Smithsonian History museums, take flight at the National Air and Space Museum, and explore the memorials that mark the history of the United States. Whichever way you decide to spend your time in The District, rest assured you will get the best of all worlds – global cuisine, international flare, and a whole lot of history.
If you have any tips for saving money while travelling we’d love to hear them.
*Collaborative post
About Debz Louise
Debz Louise is a UK-based lifestyle expert and the founder of several lifestyle blogs, including Wannabe Princess and Under 5s. Specializing in everything from interior design and home renovation to body-positive fashion and early years development,