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Washington, D.C.
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I f your wallet needs a break from high prices, there’s a budget-friendly destination within easy reach. Washington, D.C. is a 2-hour train ride or 3-hour drive from Philadelphia. This historic city is full of world-class offerings that are often free (or inexpensive), plus weekend hotel stays here tend to be affordable as the politicians and lobbyists go home to their constituents. D.C. is also a foodie destination and a great place for kids, so everyone in your party will have a good time.
As if that’s not enough, this year is also America250 and the nation’s capital is ready to party this summer. Here’s a quick peek at what you’ll find and a local's guide to the perfect day.
U.S. Capitol
Washington, D.C. is full of iconic monuments like the Jefferson Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, no admission required. Head to the National Archives Museum to see documents from the Founding Fathers, like the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. The Smithsonian Institution offers a smorgasbord of free offerings, including 17 museums, galleries and the National Zoo; these include the National Museum of American History, the National Portrait Gallery, National Air and Space Museum and National Museum of African American History and Culture.
For nearly one month, the National Mall will celebrate America’s diverse cultural heritage with the Smithsonian 250th Summer Festival (June 18–July 12). Established in 1967 as the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, this annual event honors modern living cultural traditions. Free performances, workshops, demonstrations and other activities will take place. Only in D.C. can you see July 4th fireworks exploding in the night sky above the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, with ideal viewing from the National Mall. As an added bonus, you’ll hear the National Symphony Orchestra’s “A Capitol Fourth” concert as the soundtrack.
When it comes to flavors, D.C. is the true melting pot of the nation. Foodie culture is so celebrated here that the city even has its own Michelin Guide to help navigate. (Only a handful of U.S. cities have their own guide.) Of course, it’s not just gourmet meals that folks rave about in D.C. Many of its mom-and-pop shops have also become part of the city’s culinary fabric. Ben's Chili Bowl, for example, has been serving its chili, half-smokes and burgers to locals and dignitaries for nearly seven decades now and is still reasonably priced. Head to 2Amys for wood-oven Neapolitan pizza and pricing that includes tip.
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