Planning a vacation to Washington DC? Traveling to the United States' capital is possible on a budget. The city is bustling with events, activities, and cultural landmarks, making it an ideal destination for an action-packed vacation.
Here's our guide to planning a budget-friendly vacation in Washington DC.
Things to do on vacation in Washington DC
Washington DC, the United States' capital, is brimming with activities that will inform and inspire. Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building, marvel at the monuments on the National Mall, and don't miss the Library of Congress.
The city is also full of museums, cultural institutions, and a great zoo and botanical garden. There's so much to do in Washington DC no matter what season. You might even catch the annual spring Cherry Blossom Festival or even witness a presidential inauguration!
Budget-friendly DC vacation rental alternatives
Finding vacation accommodations in Washington DC can also be a challenge, especially on a budget. Hotels or Airbnbs can cost thousands of dollars for just a week.
So choose vacation accommodations that won't break the bank by staying in a HomeExchange. An annual HomeExchange membership is just $220, so you can enjoy a year of unlimited house swaps for the price of one night in a hotel. Then you can spend your vacation budget on experiences rather than accommodations!
In 2019, a family of five traveled for for 138 days of the year and saved more than $30,000. The couple accomplished these massive savings using HomeExchange, a home swap website that offers unlimited free accommodations with membership. Read their story to learn more and find out how you can travel the world on a budget too.
Where to stay in Washington DC
There are hundreds of beautiful house swaps to choose from in the nation's capital. Whether you're looking for something pet-friendly, with pool access, or right in the center of everything, you can find it with HomeExchange.
Here are just five beautiful HomeExchanges in Washington DC, out of 175+ to choose from on your vacation!
Minimalistic solar home in in northeast DC
"Joe is a great host. Communications were fast and clear. The apartment is at an excellent location. It is walking distance to major sites." —Lee
Contemporary brownstone in a quiet DC neighborhood
"Very nice house, convenient area to discover Washington, easy communication with Bobby, we highly recommend!" —Louise and Julien
Sunny DC home with private roof deck
"Wonderful exchange opportunity. Clean, modern condo in a highly accessible part of Washington DC. Felix and Martha were terrific exchange partners, accessible, friendly, and respectful." —John
Family-friendly home in prime DC location
"We had a lovely time at their beautiful home in a wonderful location. So many luxurious upgrades, we felt like we were at a luxury hotel. Adelina is a very good host and this being my first exchange at someone’s home, I took many notes from her thoughtful touches." —Robert and Ginese
Gorgeous custom home in quaint DC neighborhood
"We loved staying here! The neighborhood was lovely with mature leafy green trees and winding streets, with great access to town, especially Georgetown. The Kennedy's couldn't be nicer & their home is very comfortable. My son loved the toys and the trampoline was perfect for him to release excess energy." —Lee
