How to Plan a Smooth and Seamless Weekend Break to Washington, DC
How to Plan a Smooth and Seamless Weekend Break to Washington, DC
As the capital of the United States, Washington, DC, is the perfect city to visit if you want to learn more about the country’s history.
If you’re planning to head to the capital for a weekend getaway, this one is for you.
You may wonder whether a weekend is enough time to explore Washington, DC. The good news is that it is!
You’ll need three days minimum to check out most of the capital’s main attractions. To ensure you cover all bases, here is a guide on how to plan a smooth and seamless weekend trip to Washington, DC.
Work Out Travel Plans
If you’ve decided a Washington, DC, trip is the way forward, it’s time to get organizing how you plan to get there and back.
Understandably, those who live on the west coast will likely prefer flying to the capital.
However, for those a little closer, you may forgo a plane in favor of a train! Check out Wanderu, where you can book return New York to Washington, DC train tickets.
They can help you find the cheapest train tickets, so any money you have left over can be spent on your exciting trip ahead!
As well as booking your travel, you need to figure out how you’re going to get around the capital.
Thankfully, there are plenty of trains, buses, and cabs you can flag down. Just make sure to look at what time trains and buses operate and map out what attractions you want to see.
Create a Loose Itinerary
Because you’re only going to Washington, DC, for the weekend, you can’t expect to see and do everything!
However, with a bit of planning and preparation, you can ensure you get the most out of your trip away.
Naturally, the number one attraction visitors are drawn to is The White House. Home to the President of the United States, this landmark can get incredibly busy.
This means if you want to get a snapshot outside, it’s wise not to go early in the morning.
If you’re going to the capital with your partner, friends, or family, you need to sit down and discuss what attractions you each want to see.
History buffs are going to want to check out Washington, DC’s museums, so be aware of opening times and admission fees to avoid disappointment.
Set a Budget (And Stick to It!)
The last thing you want is to get carried away on your Washington, DC, trip and find you run out of money halfway through your adventure!
To avoid spending beyond your means, it’s always best to create a budget before you go away and stick to it!
There are lots of things you should include in your budget. These include food and drink, attraction admission fees, and public transport.
As you’ll only be in the capital for a matter of days, you don’t need to spend a fortune while you’re there.
Before you set off on your trip, you may benefit from using a budgeting app.
This can help you stay in control of your money and ensure you arrive home with some money left in your back pocket.
Think About Food
While you’re in Washington, DC, you’ll need to keep your stomach well-fed. The wonderful thing about the capital is there are plenty of eateries to try out that cater to all taste buds.
You’ll find cuisines from all around the world to explore and enjoy.
Washington, DC, is home to some of the finest restaurants in the country. For those who don’t mind splashing the cash, you’re sure to feel right at home at Barmini or Jont.
Thankfully, those on a budget can find all the chain restaurants in the capital too.
If you plan to dine out every night, it’s going to set you back a little. You’ll also need to think about your breakfast and lunch plans too.
There are plenty of cafes and diners dotted across Washington, DC, where you can tuck into some tasty pancakes or have a nice hot cup of joe.
Book Accommodation Early
This cannot be stressed enough. When you factor in how many people go to the capital every year, hotels and hostels get booked up pretty fast.
What’s more, the longer you leave to book, the more you may have to pay out!
It’s always best to book your accommodation many months in advance. To score the best deal, it’s wise to use a hotel comparison website.
You may prefer to stay a little outside of the capital, where hotels tend to be cheaper.
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Millions upon millions of people from all four corners of the planet descend on Washington, DC, every year.
The district is a popular hotspot, so whenever you decide to book your weekend getaway, bear in mind that some attractions are going to be incredibly busy!
Whether you’re happy and content with a selfie outside The White House, or you want to explore the district’s parks and museums.
You’re sure to have a weekend adventure like no other and create long-lasting memories.
Would you consider a weekend break to Washington, DC?
Let me know, til then—cheers m’deres!
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Nancy Polanco is a freelance journalist, lifestyle content creator, and editor of Whispered Inspirations. She is a proud Mom to Gabby and Michaela and partner and best friend to Darasak. Having worked as part of a health care team for almost a decade, Nancy is happy to be back to her passion. She is a contributor to the Huffington Post, TODAY’s Parents, and an Oprah Magazine Brand Ambassador.
