Washington, D.C. Travel Guide

Washington DC on a Budget: Cheap Flights & Best Value Hotels

Everything you need to know to go to Washington, DC will be here with Affluence Travels. Let’s go.

It’s America’s powerful and iconic capital. But have you ever wondered what this city is really like? To find out, you need to have a few amazing days to explore the landmarks, dive into history, and track down what we are sharing to know some affordable flight details, essential staycation information, exciting activities, and pretty epic food. 

Top Places to Visit in Washington, D.C.

Washington, DC, is packed with historic landmarks, iconic monuments, and world-class museums. Some of the must-see places include:

• Smithsonian National Zoo: Explore the zoo's several displays, which include the most famous Giant Pandas. Take the children to go to Boo at the Zoo's traditional Halloween festival, which features a few fun child-friendly excursions. 
• The U.S. Botanic Garden: Although the U.S. Botanic Garden is a fantastic destination all year long, autumn brings an unforgettable moment. The inside greenhouse provides a tropical haven, and the outdoor gardens display an array of various flowers and greenery. 
• The National Mall at Sunset: One of the iconic sights in Washington, D.C. In the changing seasons, it acquires a special appeal that intensifies around dusk. 

If you're searching Places to Visit in Washington, these three remain the top must-see attractions for first-time travelers.

Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

Here are some fun things to do on your trip that go further than just touring:

• Monument Walks: To take in the landmarks minus the throng, schedule a stroll on the Mall in the dawn or after sunset.
• Cherry Blossom Festival: Whenever you travel in the spring, you may be able to attend the renowned Cherry Blossom Festival at the Tidal Basin. 
• Admire Fall Foliage: Washington, D.C. is renowned for its breathtaking foliage and is a favored fall pastime in many areas. As the trees change, there are many locations everywhere in the capital to enjoy the vivid hues.
• Kayaking and Paddling: During the summer times, you may lease kayaks and paddleboards on the River at The Wharf. 
• Live Music & Activities: There are live musical events in various areas, such as U Street, and the Wharf features moveable platforms.

If you're looking for the best Things to Do in Washington, these activities guarantee a memorable tour of the capital.

Best Time to Visit Washington, D.C.

Want to stay indoors along with visiting museums, then you can go to Washington, DC, throughout the entire year. Nonetheless, Affluence Travels advises going between September and November or March and May if you want to enjoy a traditional tour of Washington, DC's landmarks.

It may be exceptionally hot in the summer in Washington, DC, which makes it difficult for anyone to have a lot of time outside strolling between landmarks. Meanwhile, high winds and sporadic snowstorms may disrupt your itinerary, though the city's winters are gentler than those in several East Coast locations. Affluence Travels encourages visitors to remember this thought while deciding the best time to visit Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. Airlines and Flights

There are many handy flights to Washington, DC, from significant hubs all around the globe. Three main airports connect with Washington, DC:

1. Washington Dulles International Airport: The major hub for international arrivals, offering extensive global connectivity and premium lounges, ideal for business and luxury travelers.

2. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport: Located closest to downtown D.C., perfect for domestic travelers wanting fast access to the city's central attractions.

3. Baltimore/Washington International Airport: A great option for travelers seeking more affordable fares and flexible airline choices.

Affluence Travels assists you in identifying the most affordable flight choices, comparing prices during high-demand and off-peak times, and selecting directions that suit your needs and wallet.

Washington, D.C. Accommodation & Hotels

A variety of lodging choices are available in Washington, D.C. to accommodate different spending limits and tastes.

• Luxurious Accommodation: Located in a desirable area, the Fairmont Washington, D.C. Georgetown offers a luxurious pick.
• The Westin Georgetown: It offers 4-diamond accommodation in an accessible location, making it premium yet considerably less expensive.
• Mid-range/Affordable Option: TripAdvisor offers several excellent local lodgings.
• Community to Take Into Account: The Golden Triangle region is conveniently situated and has a variety of lodging options, retail stores, and dining establishments. 

Food & Cuisine in Washington, D.C.

The different cultures that live and function in America's capital are reflected in the dynamic and global cuisine environment of Washington, DC.

• Blue Crab from the Chesapeake: A local favorite that can be simmered with Old Bay seasoning or served as crab cakes and crab soup.
• Ben's Chili Bowl Half-Smoke: A must-try dish for people who are new to Washington is this smoky sausage smothered with chili.
• International Culinary: For individuals and foreign visitors, Washington, D.C. provides Chinese, Korean, Russian, Japanese, Indian, Italian, Thai, and beyond. 

Transportation in Washington, D.C.

The effective and conveniently located public transportation system in Washington, DC, renders moving about simple:

• Metro: Dependable, neat, and the best way to get to important sites such as the Smithsonian museums and the National Mall.
• Metrobus: Encompasses a wide range of locations, such as those that the Metro cannot reach.
• DC Circulator: An inexpensive bus service that links popular tourist destinations.
• Ridesharing and Taxis: For short trips between engagements and tourist spots, neighborhood cabs, Uber, and Lyft are generally accessible.
• Walking and Cycling: The Capital Bikeshare offers bicycles for quick journeys, and the area is paved with beautiful strolling routes.

Washington, D.C. Currency & Costs

The US dollar is used as currency in Washington, D.C.

Here at Affluence Travel, we're offering some ideas on what to anticipate in terms of costs:

• Meals could cost between $15 and $25 per person for casual dining, $40 to $70 or more for mid-range dining, and $100 or more for luxury dining.
• Depending on the distance, public transportation costs $2 to $6 for every Metro ride; the DC Circulator costs $1.
• Affordable accommodations start at $110 per night, mid-range accommodations at $160–$250, and luxury accommodations at $350 or more.