Ahhh, summer. A season quick to take a toll on your bank account if rooftop pool passes, patio brunches, days at the ballpark, and extra vacation time were all a part of your summer itinerary. There are no “cheap” seasons in the Capital City, but there are a few easy ways to savor the first few weeks of fall, aka the last few weeks of summer, without completely blowing your budget.

As September reminds us that all great things must come to an end: Here are some ideas to spend a weekend (or a hooky day) in the lingering summer sunshine without dropping a dime.

1- Ditch that Pricey Day-Pass Pool and Go Public

The best part of this summertime heat is cooling off at the pool, and one of DC’s best-kept secrets is its plethora of public pools! While almost every neighborhood has its own, Banneker Pool in Petworth comes highly rated with its froyo, diving board, and diverse sunbathers. You can check out the full list of public pools on the DPR website. Can’t imagine laying poolside without a cocktail? Try The Liason Hotel in Capitol Hill for rooftop happy hour. It’s only free to the public after 5 pm, but this time of year you can still catch a tan well into the afternoon.

2 – Salute the Sun during a Free Yoga Class

This is the perfect season to ditch your hot-yoga studio membership and pocket that extra cash for a month or two. You can save some dollars by moving your workout regime outside and taking advantage of TriFit Fitness Classes that take place in Farragut Square! Classes continue through September and you can snag your free spot at https://goldentriangledc.com/events/trifit-2018. 

3 – Leave Your Car Parked and Try an Urban Hike

Living by some seriously awesome mountain ranges makes DC an adventurer’s favorite city. Unfortunately, filling up your gas tank, loading up on road snacks, and stocking up on hiking gear can get costly. Try an urban hike instead! Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trail is a popular choice and is easily accessible at Oxon Hill Road. Or make it educational and play tourist on your own Staycation. Throughout the entire month of September, you can take a free walking tour. Visit culturaltourismdc.org to select from a wide range of monuments and neighborhoods. Get your steps in and soak up the sunshine!

4 – Snap an Insta-Worthy Photo Among Incredible Seasonal Flowers

The Botanical Gardens provide a stunning backdrop every season, but Summer Exhibits are a cant-miss. America’s Flora and Wall Flowers: Botanical Murals are both exhibits running through early October and provide a picture-perfect opportunity to soak in some sights you just can’t get year-round. The best part? It’s metro-accessible and a great way to take in the summer air without leaving the city.  

What’s you go-to activity when you’re looking for a whole lot of fun without spending a whole lot of money? Share us in your own low budget adventures using #FrayLife #DCFray in your social posts.

Need even more ideas for stretching your dollar in DC? Here are some budget-friendly date ideas that will impress for less!

View More Articles By Brittney Miles

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