Is DC a Cheap Vacation?

By Anna Duncan

Are you planning a vacation and wondering if DC is a cheap destination? Well, the answer is not so straightforward.

It depends on several factors like travel season, accommodation, food, and activities. Let’s explore them one by one.

Travel Season

If you visit DC during the peak tourist season, which is from March to August, you may end up spending more than in the off-season. The hotel rates are higher, and the famous attractions like museums and monuments are crowded. However, if you plan your trip in January or February, you can take advantage of lower hotel rates and fewer crowds.

Accommodation

DC has a wide range of accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. If your budget is tight, consider staying in hostels or Airbnbs. They offer reasonable rates compared to hotels.

Hotels

  • If you are looking for luxury: The Ritz-Carlton (rates starting at $649 per night)
  • If you want mid-range: Courtyard by Marriott (rates starting at $139 per night)
  • If you want budget-friendly: Days Inn by Wyndham (rates starting at $89 per night)

Hostels

  • Duo Nomad (rates starting at $40 per night)
  • HI Washington DC Hostel (rates starting at $50 per night)
  • DC Lofty (rates starting at $60 per night)

Food

DC has an array of dining options that cater to all budgets. You can go for high-end restaurants or choose from fast-food chains. If you want to save money on food, look for food trucks or local markets.

Restaurants

  • For fine-dining: The Capital Grille (average cost for two: $150)
  • For mid-range: Founding Farmers (average cost for two: $70)
  • For budget-friendly: Ben’s Chili Bowl (average cost for two: $20)

Food Trucks

  • Fava Pot (vegan and vegetarian options available)
  • Bonmi (Vietnamese sandwiches)
  • Korean BBQ Taco Box (Korean fusion cuisine)

Activities

DC offers a plethora of free activities that do not require a ticket. You can visit the National Mall, which houses many monuments and museums that are free to enter. You can also take a stroll in Georgetown or go for a hike in Rock Creek Park.

Free Activities

  • National Mall (Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, etc.)
  • National Gallery of Art
  • National Museum of American History
  • The Smithsonian Zoo

Paid Activities

  • The International Spy Museum ($24.95 per adult ticket)
  • The Newseum ($24.95 per adult ticket)
  • Museums with suggested donation like The National Museum of American Indian and The Holocaust Museum.

    The Verdict:

    DC may not be the cheapest vacation destination, but it is possible to have an affordable trip by planning ahead and taking advantage of the free activities and budget-friendly options. So, if you’re planning a trip to DC, keep these tips in mind and have a great time!