Enjoy your visit to Boca Raton without spending much.

"Rat's Mouth" may not be a very engaging name for a city, but for Boca Raton, it works every time. Twenty miles from Fort Lauderdale is this remarkable city, which is filled with an abundance of neo-Mediterranean architecture. The well-preserved downtown area features spires, red-tiled roofs and arched entrances that are unmistakably and distinctively Boca Raton. The city on Florida's east coast reminds tourists of ancient Spanish themes and Venetian motifs.

The famous architect Addison is responsible for the unique features of Boca Raton. Mizner influenced the Boca Raton Resort and Club, Mizner Park and the Boca Raton Museum of Art, the latter of which is worth a stop for its amazing collection of modern art drawings by Picasso, Matisse and Degas. If you want to explore the full range of Florida's seaside pleasures on a budget, Boca Raton has a fun coastal side in Spanish River Park. This explorable waterfront offers great rates and features green towers and lush vegetation. You can also enjoy the city's nightlife and beaches year-round, so the off-season doesn't make much difference when it comes to savoring the city's attractions.

Money-saving tip or highlight: Boca Raton's recreation options are mostly free. Head to Mizner Park for a leisurely stroll without even spending a dime.

Shopping and other incredibly cheap fun in Boca Raton

Due to relatively low rents and a 6.5% sales tax on top of the already low retail price, goods are generally cheaper than in Los Angeles or New York. Shopping in Boca Raton is varied and individual. During the day, most Boca Raton residents can indulge in the pleasures of the outdoors; at night, it's hard to resist the lure of some of the hottest restaurants, bars and nightclubs. And when money runs out, or there isn't enough of it, people-watching from a sidewalk café can be very entertaining. The elegant open-air shopping plaza in Mizner Park is adorned with numerous waterfalls and intertwined palm trees. The Boca Town Center shopping center is known for its high-end stores, but the surrounding restaurants offer inexpensive options. Staple stores such as Barnes and Noble, Mario's and Whole Foods can be found in University Commons Square.

Lodging and Food in Boca Raton

For those looking for quality accommodations on a budget, there are two hotels that offer reasonable value: the Leowne Place Suites by Marriott and the Ocean Lodge. You can also check into the Boca Raton Bridge Hotel, especially if location is important to you. The hotel is close to outdoor shopping centers and various museums. Boca Raton hotel dining options are also plentiful, and most offer good news for budget-conscious travelers. The Cannoli Kitchen offers two dozen specialties. Mississippi Suites' reasonably priced BBQ restaurant offers Southern cuisine. Generous portions are offered at low prices at Too Jay's old-fashioned restaurant.