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Washington, DC on a Budget

By Rachel Cooper, About.com

Exploring Washington, DC doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of ways to enjoy Washington, DC while sticking to a budget. Here is a guide to free attractions, entertainment, cheap hotels, dining options and shopping on a budget.

Visit Free Attractions

Why spend money on entrance fees when there’s dozens of free museums, parks, memorials, and historic sites around the DC area? Here is a guide to 50 Free Washington, DC Attractions.

Enjoy Free and Cheap Entertainment

The Kennedy Center’s Millenium Stage offers free performances nightly. Looking for theater discounts? Some theaters offers student and senior pricing and you can also save money by purchasing last minute tickets. The Washington DC Power Pass offers savings on sightseeing tours, attractions, and museums. Another way to get discounts for a wide range of activities is to purchase an Entertainment Book. During the summer months free outdoor movies have become popular and are offered at many places around the region. You’ll also find free summer concerts throughout the DC capital region. There’s plenty of free festivals and events going on in Washington, DC throughout the year. See monthly event calendars for details. (Please note that calendars include some festivals with fees)

Stay in a Cheap Hotel

Want to stay in the city without spending your whole budget on a hotel room? Here are some cheap hotels that are convenient to most of Washington, DC’s attractions. Willing to share a room? You’ll find a number of hostels in the Washington, DC area that provide cheap sleeping accommodations, as well as kitchens, wash rooms, and laundries.

Eat Cheap

Washington, DC has lots of wonderful restaurants and many cheap options as well as expensive places to eat. The following guides will help you find the best of Washington, DC's cheap restaurants and dining establishments.

Save Money Shopping for Bargains

Enjoy savings on top brands of groceries, home and beauty products, clothes, books, toys, travel, and more.
  • Discount Coupons - Get discount coupons for restaurants, sightseeing tours, museums, groceries, entertainment, home furnishings, car rentals and more.

  • Thrift Stores – The Washington, DC area has a variety of thrift and vintage shops that offer second-hand items including clothing, accessories, toys, furniture, household items and much more.

  • Flea Markets – Here are a few places to shop for used items, collectibles and antiques.

  • Outlet Shopping Malls Near Washington, DC - Within an hours drive from Washington, DC, you will find the best selection of stores and the best prices on designer and brand name items from clothing to electronics to housewares.

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