This is around the point in the summer where I have to admit to myself that my remaining plans for the season don’t match my budget 😬 But if, like me, you don’t want to give up on a summer getaway entirely, here are a few stellar trips you can do for less than $150.
For the Outdoorsy Types:
Head to Cherry Hill Park in College Park, Maryland for some top-tier camping ($92/night). This metro-accessible spot is family friendly and has a ton of amenities that make it perfect for a weekend getaway. Heated pool? Check. Mini golf? Check. Cafe that delivers right to your tent? Check. Or try another of our favorite DMV camping spots.
For the City Adventurers:
Grab a $10 MARC ticket to Baltimore and walk over to the Ulysses hotel, a boutique hotel with early 1900’s nostalgia, several hotel bars (including a speakeasy), and unbelievable breakfast. Rates start at $110 a night, leaving you a few extra bucks to explore downtown Baltimore during the day.

The grounds at the Franciscan Monastery in Brookland. (Kaela Cote-Stemmermann/City Cast DC)
For Those Seeking Seclusion:
Need some silent time to relax and reflect? Spend a night or two at the hermitage at the Franciscan Monastery in Brookland. This tiny house in the middle of the monastery woods comes with no wifi or TV access and is meant as a retreat from the modern world. Guests are also welcome to join mass if they wish. Rates are $120/night.
For the Beachy Babes:
At $160 a night, this adorable renovated motel located right on the Chesapeake is a little over budget but well worth the cash. Pier 450 is about a 2-hour drive from D.C. and has themed rooms, a beach bar, a dock, and fire pits that make it feel like an adult summer camp.
For Those That Yearn For Endor:
Stay up in a treehouse at Maple Tree Campground. Their tree cottages have beds and a wood burning stove for just $85/night. They also have themed houses like a hobbit house and a dragonfly fairy house that are $140-50/night. And the best part is it’s located right between Frederick and Harpers Ferry for lots of hiking and antiquing during the day.



