Washington, DC is made for budget travel: the Smithsonian museums and the monuments on the National Mall cost nothing. Hostels are few, so book ahead, especially in spring.
Where to stay
- Downtown and Penn Quarter: walk to the National Mall and the museums; several Metro lines.
- Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan: residential streets, restaurants, a short Metro or bus ride to the Mall.
- Capitol Hill: quiet rowhouse streets near the Capitol and Union Station.
Walk the monuments at night: the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument are lit up after dark and much quieter than at midday.
Things to do
Frequently asked questions
Are the museums in Washington, DC free?
The Smithsonian museums on and around the National Mall are free to enter. Some, like the National Museum of African American History and Culture, may require free timed passes.
Where should I stay in DC on a budget?
Downtown and Penn Quarter, within walking distance of the National Mall and several Metro lines.
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