Who says you have to mortgage your home to pay for a family vacation? With the skyrocketing price of gas and the exorbitant cost of airfare most families would agree that taking a trip these days requires some major financial wrangling. However, there are ways you can make the most of a family getaway—-no matter how cash strapped you may be–if you look in the right places.
For example, Washington, D.C. is loaded with free and cheap attractions that will appeal to everyone in your clan. Many of the area’s museums, monuments and other star attractions are run by the federal government and don’t charge for admission, including the National Mall and the Smithsonian museums. (Tip: If you can’t stand crowds consider visiting D.C.’s major monuments in the evening.)
If you have young children don’t miss the Muppets exhibit, Jim Henson’s Fantastic World, at the underground International Gallery at the Smithsonian Institution, which runs through October 5th. Another popular place for kids is the “Building Zone” gallery at the National Building Museum, which features blocks, toy trucks and tools specially designed for kids age 6 and under.
The National Zoo is also free (don’t miss the Asia Trail, which offers great panda viewing). You’ll receive an added bonus if you visit later in the week–there are free concerts on Lion/Tiger Hill each Thursday night during the summer months.
Another freebie is the U.S. Botanic Garden, which features acres of green space along with unique plants and flowers. Likewise, the National Arboretum in northeast D.C. also offers free admission. The site is home to the original Corinthian columns from the U.S. Capitol and offers dozens of picturesque picnic spots. (You can save even more money if you pack your own meal.) Another option is to pack a picnic and take it to the National Gallery of Art’s sculpture garden where you can take in a free outdoor jazz concert each Friday evening.
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