Weekend Vacations | Less Than $200

Explore new places without breaking the bank. Traveling can be expensive, but the following cities have a lot to offer travelers on a budget. Save even more and use your Best Western Rewards points to pay for lodging.

 Washington, D.C.

In a city with so much history, saving money is easy to do. Here are some tips for saving money in Washington, D.C.

1. Free museums and memorials: Free activities aren’t hard to come by in a city filled with government-funded landmarks. Spend a day visiting one of the many Smithsonian museums like the National Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of American History. End your day by climbing the steps to the Lincoln Memorial and see how beautiful the city is from one of the most visited spots in Washington, D.C.
2. Walk the Potomac: Many people that work in the city commute from the suburbs, which makes traffic some of the worst in the country. Instead of spending money on a taxi or rental car, walk along the Potomac River under the shade of the cherry blossoms for an authentic D.C. experience. Have somewhere far to go? Check out the DC Metro.
3. Eat near the National Mall: Like any other big city, D.C. has a wide selection of street vendors. Grab a hot dog and sprawl out on the grassy National Mall. Avoid restaurants and cafeterias in museums. Meals are typically overpriced and don’t compare to the food you can buy from a local vendor.

Nashville, TN

It’s a one-of-a-kind town full of country music, barbecue and two-stepping. All of the free attractions make Nashville, TN one of the most popular locations for travelers on a budget.

1. Free music at Bluebird Café: Grab a seat at the most famous listening room in Nashville. Bluebird Café is guaranteed to have some of the best music in the city. A few of country music’s biggest stars were found at Bluebird like Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift and Kenny Chesney. Admission is free on select nights.
2. Picnic at the Parthenon: Constructed as a replica of the Greek Parthenon in Athens, the Parthenon at Centennial Park is one of Nashville’s most photographed structures. Bring some Greek food (or barbecue!) and a blanket with you for a picnic underneath the pillars.
3. Dance down the Honky-Tonk Highway: Make sure to grab your cowboy boots and hit the dance floor while visiting Music City’s most famous street. Located on Broadway in the heart of Nashville, you can find live music everywhere on the Honky-Tonk Highway. Don’t miss some of country music’s most popular spots like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, The Stage and Legends Corner. Families are welcome before 9 p.m. at most places!

Seattle, WA

Located on Puget Sound, Seattle is nestled in between snowcapped mountains and evergreen forests. With adventure at every turn, Seattle has some of the best options for travelers on a budget.

1. Pike Place Market stroll: Immerse yourself in Seattle’s culture when you walk through the beloved Pike Place Market. Originally opened in 1907, Pike Place is Seattle’s first farmer’s market. Since opening, the market has attracted people from around the country due to its famous traditions like fish throwing. Today, Pike Place has nearly 200 vendors ranging from fresh local food to street performers. Best thing about Pike Place? The experience is completely free.
2. Explore Discovery Park: There is nothing quite like the natural beauty that can be found in the Pacific Northwest. Discovery Park, located less than seven miles from downtown Seattle, is the prime destination for hiking and exploring. The trails at Discovery Park stretch across 12 miles of scenic land and include views of mountains, bluffs, a lighthouse and much more. Save extra cash on your excursion by using your Best Western Rewards points to purchase your gas.
3. Skip the Space Needle: Although the Space Needle is the most recognizable buildings in the Seattle skyline, the Smith Tower has the best view. The Smith Tower, located in Pioneer Square, is half the cost to visit and boasts stunning views of Puget Sound, Mount Rainier and downtown Seattle.