Fall

After a brief hiatus (summer vacay in Kenya), DC on a Dime is back and ready to assist.  The dog days of summer are getting ever shorter, and fall is on its way in.  The Washingtonian has amassed a list of 36 easy getaways from the DC metro area for the fall, and DC on a Dime recommends a few modifications for the cost conscious.

1.) Try to book your stay after Labor Day weekend.  Accomodation and activity prices usually fall after the high summer season.

2.) Limit your stay to one night.  If you arrive early Saturday morning and depart Sunday evening you can still have time to enjoy the activities offered in the area.

3.) Call ahead.  In the throws of a the recession, clientele strapped businesses are more willing to wheel and deal.  Take a chance and call ahead to see what you can negotiate.  You might get lucky.

Feeling outdoorsy?  Right here in our own backyard is one of the most dynamic geological features in the U.S. of A — Great Falls.  At Great Falls Park, the Potomac River builds up speed and force as it cascades over a series of steep rocks and swift turns.  Whether you visit the Maryland or Virginia side, Great Falls will not disappoint. 

What makes Great Falls even more enticing is the rock bottom entrance fee.  If you’re on foot, bike, or horse it’s just $3.   While a vehicle pass costs a mere $5.  And if you’re feeling especially close to mother-earth, an annual pass will set you back $20.

Check out the website for more details.  We hope to see you on either the River or Billy Goat Trail.

Oak Bluffs, MV – Memorial Day ‘09

Politico recently asked Washington insiders about their summer vacation plans, but, surprisingly, nobody mentioned a DC on a Dime favorite – Martha’s Vineyard.  Incidentally, this is also where President Obama and the First Family were rumored to go this coming August. 

Now, we know what you’re thinking.  (I’m not a wealthy politician).  And while it’s true that you can only get to MV by ferry or by flight, you can still enjoy an affordable vacation on Martha’s Vineyard, with a little planning.

Commonly referred to as the “Vineyard,” this 100 square mile island has long been a summer get-a-away for Washingtonians.  The Vineyard is home to six separate towns:  Tisbury (or Vineyard Haven), Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, West Tisbury, Chilmark, and  Aquinnah.  Each with its own distinct character and appeal.

In addition to outstanding dining and local shops, the Vineyard offers a variety of recreational activities.  From miles of picturesque biking paths and hiking trails, to world class golf and beautiful beaches. 

As noted in this introductory guide, you don’t have to be rich and famous to enjoy MV:  “Instead, visit the Vineyard to bicycle the shaded paths hugging the coastline.  Admire the regal sea captains’ houses in Edgartown, and stop by the Edgartown Scrimshaw Gallery for a memento of the sea.  Stroll down Circuit Avenue in Oak Bluffs with a Mad Martha’s ice-cream cone and then ride the Flying Horses Carousel, said to be the oldest working carousel in the country.”

Check out these recommended websites for additional information on planning your trip from DC to MV on a dime: 

• Martha’s Vineyard Online’s Vacation Rentals (MVOL.com)
• Getting Around (Frommer’s)
• Biking on The Vineyard (Marthas-Vineyard.com)
• On Martha’s Vineyard on a Budget. Seriously. (New York Times)

Below are a few pictures from our most recent trip to Martha’s Vineyard.   

Ferry to MV Loading

Beach in Oak Bluffs

View of Edgartown from Chappy Ferry

Road Sign on Bike Path From Oak Bluffs to Edgartown

Annapolis - America's Sailing Capital

For Washingtonians looking for an economical vacation spot, you don’t have to look far.   Just 33 miles - 45 minute drive -  Annapolis, MD is the perfect day trip or week-end getaway from DC. 

Annapolis has great shopping, restaurants, and a rich history.  Founded in 1649, it is the Capital of Maryland, and was the Capital of the United States when the Treaty of Paris was signed, ending the Revolutionary War.  It is also the proud home of the U. S. Naval Academy, founded in1845, and St. John’s College, founded in 1696.

Whether by car, boat, or on foot, you can enjoy what “America’s Sailing Capitol” has to offer.  And please treat yourself to the awesome crab cakes at Carrol’s Creek Waterfront Restaurant, which is tucked away in the Annapolis City Marina. 

View From the Deck at Carrol's Creek

Things to See and Do:  Annapolis offers a wide variety of activities.  It is home to incredible boat shows. The sports enthusiasts can attend football, baseball, lacrosse and all sorts of other sports year round at the United States Naval Academy. You can also attend our annual Renaissance Festival or our New Years Eve Celebration with hundreds of musical, theater, dance and comedy performances in and around the City.   

Yacht Club

Navy 1 - Pirates 0

Duke of Gloucester St.

Wouldn’t you like to visit Australia, Costa Rica, or Japan for free?   If so, DC on a Dime has found the next best thing. 

Cultural Tourism DC invites you to visit a few hidden DC treasures – embassies!  Starting today through May 9, there will be events at embassies throughout the city (open to the public) where you can experience the culture of foreign food, dance,  music, and crafts.  The main event, however, will be the “open house” on May 2,  where 30 embassies will open their doors from 10 am - 4 pm.  

Cultural Tourism DC will provide free shuttles on May 2 from 10 am - 4 pm. Three shuttles will leave from 1900 Massachusetts Avenue, NW (Dupont Circle) and will loop Massachusetts Avenue, Connecticut Avenue, and lower New Hampshire Avenue.

Check out this site for more details.