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A Washington D.C. Spring Break That Won’t Break The Bank

Arial photo taken of Washington, D.C

Are you a student in Washington D.C. looking for a way to have more fun while spending less money during spring break? If so, Collegeboxes has budget-friendly ideas for those of you who are keeping it local.

Here are 5 affordable places to visit during Spring Break in Washington, D.C:

1. The Smithsonian

There is no shortage of museums in the nation’s capital and the Smithsonian extends free admission. The world-renowned landmark is located in downtown D.C. Whether you are a history major, an art enthusiast, or simply a lover of all things learning, the Smithsonian will pique your interest. The complex is a collection of 21 museums showcasing art, history, science exhibits, and beyond. It is the largest museum on the globe; and boasts of its dedication to educating and engaging the community with its vast array of workshops, tours, and interesting resources. Take advantage of this bucket list opportunity and enjoy the museums of your choice within biking, walking, and even metro traveling distance of D.C. Universities. Since admission into the Washington D.C. Smithsonian location is free. It does not get any more budget-friendly than that!

Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C.

2. Adams Morgan

Adams Morgan is a popular neighborhood in D.C. known for its coffee shops, hipster-inspired boutiques, colorful architecture, and live music scene. If you love taking impressive photos, Adams Morgan’s colorful aesthetic is great for photography students, Collegeboxes ambassadors, and selfie enthusiasts alike. The 1.5-mile strip allows you to try diverse foods, shop vintage boutiques and enjoy an evening of live music and dancing.

Image of the Adams Morgan neighborhood in Washington, D.C.

3. The Wharf

The Wharf is a part of D.C.’s harbor and is known for its amazing seafood, entertainment, boating activities, and more. Start your day by renting a kayak or paddleboat, or by touring the Potomac with the infamous Water Taxi. After sailing or paddling up a sweat, you may want to satisfy your appetite. The Wharf is known for its variety of restaurants, many offering fresh seafood.

What’s next? Perhaps you enjoy arcades. If so, try Boardwalk. Boardwalk is a space to dine and enjoy an impressive mix of modern and vintage arcade games! Lastly, close out your day with an evening activity at Camp Wharf Fire Pit. Roast marshmallows, make smores, and enjoy apple cider. The community fire pit operates between 5:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. on select days of the week. Ingredients for smores are available for purchase at the site.

The wharf development in Washington, D.C.

4. Old Town Trolley Tours

Hop on a Trolley with Old Town Trolley Tours and purchase a 1-day pass to explore Washington DC. The experience is narrated by tour guides who deliver educational and entertaining facts while recounting DC’s infamous landmarks and history. The tour is a 1.5-hour drive and includes 15 attractions. The White House, International Spy Museum, and The Capitol are among a few. You can explore select attractions at any of the 15 stops; and while the stop near the White House does not include a tour itself, you can exit the trolley there to explore the White House Visitors Center. The Old Town Trolley Tour returns every half hour per stop, allowing you to ride and exit a Trolley at leisure with your day pass.

Old Trolley Tours in Washington, D.C.

5. DC Improv

The DC Improv is a comedy club. The space showcases an impressive variety of local and out-of-town headlining talent. The venue includes a full dine-in menu. Celebrity guest appearances are common as well. You can purchase admission for a show at dcimprov.com Join their texts and emailing lists for special promo codes and offers. If you love to laugh and are interested in a fun night out, DC improv is a great destination to close out your local spring break adventures.

DC Improv comedy club in Washington, D.C.

Cost

During spring break travel, students at a minimum can pay $300- $600.00 for a plane ticket alone. Spending while on vacation itself can continue to rise to over one grand. DC Students who stay local can have a great time while managing to save money. Here is an idea of what spending may look like at some of our suggested spring break stops.

  • Adams Morgan: Snacking, exploring, and strolling down Adams Morgan can cost, at minimum, $15.00-$75.00 all in a day’s play.