You can have an unforgettable day in DC without breaking the bank.
Home to outstanding monuments, world-class museums and a rich tapestry of history, Washington, DC is one of the world's top destinations.
Even more exciting: Whether you're a local or a visitor, you can savor the best of DC without denting your wallet. Numerous iconic attractions (like the National Mall) and scenic parks (including the 2,100-acre Rock Creek Park) offer free admission. And with a culinary scene that's as diverse as the city itself, you can always find budget-friendly dining options.
DC also boasts the convenience of being one of the most walkable major cities in the U.S. With resources like Capital Bikeshare and the Metro, exploring the city is both accessible and economical.
Below, explore three thoughtfully planned day itineraries that showcase delightful ways to make the most of your day in DC for $50 or less.
1. A Day in Adams Morgan with Amy Rauch
Morning
Coffee at Soleluna
Price: $
1787 Columbia Road NW, Washington, DC 20009
With a busy day of exploring DC ahead, caffeine is a must! Stop by Soleluna in Adams Morgan for affordable and delicious craft coffee drinks. If you want to slow down, grab a pastry and stay awhile. All of their pastries are made from scratch daily – visit between 7 and 8 a.m. to try them fresh from the oven.
Buy new reading material at Lost City Books
Price: $
2467 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Lost City Books is an Adams Morgan favorite. Spend some time browsing the variety of new, used and rare books offered at the local bookstore. You’ll find plenty of employee recommendations amongst the shelves if you need help deciding.
Afternoon
Lunch at Andy’s Pizza
Price: FREE
2465 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Head next door to Andy’s Pizza, where you can snag a free slice of cheese pizza with a receipt from Lost City Books. Andy’s Pizza has been declared “Best Pizza” in the Best of D.C. awards in 2022 and 2023, so your taste buds will not be disappointed. If you want to splurge on a second slice, there are plenty of extra scrumptious specialty pie slices to choose from.
Read and relax at Meridian Hill Park
Price: FREE
16th & W Streets NW, Washington, DC 20009
Pack a picnic blanket and connect with nature at Meridian Hill Park. A short walk from Andy’s Pizza, you’ll find beautiful green space perfect for relaxing. Enjoy an afternoon reading your new book or take a walk around the park. There are several memorials and statues to visit, including an homage to Joan of Arc and a memorial to former president James Buchanan.
Evening
Happy Hour at The Green Zone
Price: $$
2226 18th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
End your day with happy hour eats and cocktails at The Green Zone, a Middle Eastern cocktail bar. Grab an appetizer, a flatbread or shawarma sandwich, and a cocktail at the bar. Tip: patio space fills up fast, so make a reservation in advance if you’re set on sitting outside.
Bonus Recommendation: Live Music at Madam’s Organ
Price: $
2461 18th Street NW, Washington DC, 20009
Looking to spend more time in Adams Morgan? Madam’s Organ Blues Bar offers live music seven nights a week starting at 9:30 p.m. The neighborhood staple with affordable drinks makes for a fun way to spend an evening. If you’re a fan of karaoke, don’t miss Thursday nights on the second floor.
2. A Day at DC's Hot Spots with Cornelia Poku, Black Girls Explore DC
Morning
Walk around Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
Price: FREE
1550 Anacostia Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20019
Start your morning with a walk around Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens via the Anacostia Trail. The National Park is stunning in every season, but don’t miss out on the Lotus and Water Lily Festival hosted each summer. Admission is always free.
Eastern Market Lunch and Farmer’s Market Tour
Price: $
225 7th Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
Eastern Market has called the Capitol Hill neighborhood home for 150 years. In the South Hall Market, you’ll find a variety of local food vendors open daily, boasting baked goods, deli products, flowers and more. On the weekends, you can count on the Weekend Farmers’ Line for fresh produce and the Weekend Outdoor Market, where artists sell handmade goods and antiques.
Afternoon
Visit the Smithsonian American Art Museum
Price: FREE
G & 8th Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
A budget day in DC wouldn’t be complete without a visit to one of the 17 free Smithsonian museums in the city. The Smithsonian American Art Museum (which shares a building with the National Portrait Gallery) features a reimagined contemporary art gallery as well as an array of special exhibitions. Make sure to check out its sister museum, the Renwick Gallery, as well.
Evening
Dinner at Beefsteak in Foggy Bottom
Price: $
800 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20052
Catch the metro to Foggy Bottom and have dinner at Beefsteak, a vegetarian restaurant from the iconic Chef José Andrés. The restaurant specializes in warm grain bowls, but also features vegetarian burger options.
Bonus Recommendation: Catch a free show at the Kennedy Center’s Millenium Stage
Price: FREE
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts offers incredible productions and experiences year-round. The Millenium Stage boasts free performances in its Grand Foyer, Wednesdays through Saturday at 6 p.m. Tickets are first-come, first-served and can be booked in advance online or at the Box Office on performance day. Grab an early dinner and enjoy the show.
3. A Day of Sightseeing and Shopping with Your DC Bestie, Sam Schlageter
Morning
Brunch at Bagels, Etc.
Price: $
2122 P Street NW #100, Washington, DC 20037
Start off your day of sightseeing with a bagel or sandwich from Bagels, Etc. in Dupont Circle. Note that it’s a cash-only restaurant, so stop by an ATM before you grab one of their delicious creations.
DC views at the Old Post Office Tower
Price: FREE
12th Street & Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
The Old Post Office Tower is one of DC’s hidden gems. Managed by the National Park Service, the Tower offers self-guided or ranger-led tours of the building. Once you make it to the 270-foot observation deck, you will encounter spectacular views of the city.
An only-in-DC experience at the Library of Congress
Price: FREE
101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20540
Stunning ceilings, books galore and thoughtful exhibits – all of these and more can be found at the Library of Congress. Take your time and explore the library, including its changing historical exhibitions and stunning architecture.
Afternoon
Capital Bikeshare the monuments & Theodore Roosevelt Island
Price: $
Biking around DC is the perfect way to cap off your sightseeing adventure. Capital Bikeshare offers nearly 4,000 bikes and more than 480 stations throughout DC, Arlington, Alexandria and Montgomery County. You can purchase a 24-hour pass for $8 or pay a per-minute rate. Theodore Roosevelt Island features three trails to explore and the National Mall is also bike-friendly.
Evening
Dinner at Falafel Inc.
Price: $
1210 Potomac Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
Falafel Inc. is a DC favorite with falafel bowls, salads and sandwiches. With locations in Georgetown at The Wharf and in Foggy Bottom, you can incorporate Falafel Inc. into any budget DC day.
Shop at Redz Trading
Price: $$
1413 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
Redz Trading is a consignment shop in Georgetown that specializes in high-end fashion resale. Trade in your clothing for cash to make a purchase or window shop the day away. It’s a sustainable and affordable avenue to purchasing designer items.
Bonus Recommendation: Catch monumental views at Georgetown Waterfront Park
Price: FREE
3303 Water Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
End your night with fresh air and scenic views from the Georgetown Waterfront Park. Take a stroll along the pier, relax by finding your way out of the labyrinth path on the western edge of the park or grab a seat and enjoy watching boats on the Potomac River.
Other Free Things to Do in Washington, DC
