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Where to Stay in Washington

Where to Stay in Washington

Washington District Of Columbia, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Luxury Hotels

    Four Seasons, The Ritz-Carlton, and The St. Regis provide premium services and prime locations.

  • Mid-Range Hotels

    Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt properties deliver comfortable stays, usually with added amenities.

  • Budget Hotels/Motels

    Cost-conscious travelers find simpler accommodations slightly outside the city center.

  • Hostels

    Economical options like HI Washington DC Hostel welcome solo travelers plus groups. Find hostels on Hostelworld.

Unique Accommodation & Rentals

  • Boutique Hotels

    Distinctive properties in Dupont Circle or Georgetown offer personalized experiences.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Apartments and houses suit families or longer stays. Book on Booking.com or Vrbo.

  • Homestay/House Sitting

    Cultural immersion via platforms like Airbnb. Explore TrustedHousesitters.

  • Camping

    No city limits camping. Nearby state parks like Prince William Forest Park offer facilities.

Neighborhood Highlights

Washington D.C. Comprises diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct character, amenities, and proximity to attractions.

Downtown/Penn Quarter

Pros
  • Walkable to many museums
  • Excellent Metro access (Metro Center)
  • Wide hotel selection
Cons
  • Can be expensive
  • Less residential charm
  • Quieter after business hours

Capitol Hill

Pros
  • Historic charm, quaint streets
  • Close to government buildings
  • Eastern Market access
Cons
  • Might feel quieter evenings
  • Slightly further from some Smithsonian museums

Georgetown

Pros
  • Beautiful historic district
  • High-end shopping and dining
  • Charming ambiance
  • LGBTQ+ friendly area
Cons
  • Expensive
  • No direct Metro access
  • Might feel disconnected from federal core

Safety and Ambiance

Safety Considerations

Tourist areas are generally safe. Remain aware of your surroundings, notably in the late evening. Use common sense.

The Noise and Feel of the place

Downtown/Penn Quarter, Adams Morgan, U Street are lively and noisy. Capitol Hill, Foggy Bottom, and parts of Georgetown offer quieter residential ambiance.

Booking Strategies

Planning your D.C. Accommodation a strategic undertaking, especially during peak travel times. Thoughtful booking secures the best prices and desired locations.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • Peak Seasons (Cherry Blossom, Summer, Conventions): Book 3-6 months ahead.
  • Shoulder Seasons (Early Fall, Late Spring): Book 1-3 months ahead.
  • Low Season (Winter, excluding holidays): More flexibility, but a few weeks ahead is wise.
  • Timely booking offers a better selection and potentially lower rates.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Global Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, Agoda for broad selections.
  • Direct Hotel Websites: Often "best rate guarantees" or loyalty program perks. Consider IHG Hotels.
  • Vacation Rental Platforms: Airbnb and Vrbo for apartments and houses.
  • Hostelworld: A platform dedicated to booking hostels. Visit Hostelworld.

Financial Planning

Deposit and Cancellation Policies
  • Policies vary significantly by property and platform.
  • Review terms before confirming.
  • Flexible rates allow cancellation 24-72 hours prior without penalty.
  • Non-refundable rates are more affordable but pose a risk.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Accommodation prices are significantly higher during Cherry Blossom season, summer, and major events.
  • Winter (excluding holidays) generally offers the lowest prices.
  • Book well in advance for best value during peak periods.

Important Note

Walk-In Rates

Negotiation for walk-in rates is generally not practiced in D.C. Hotels. Advance booking usually yields better rates.

Loyalty Programs

Booking directly with hotels can provide loyalty program benefits. Explore options with large chains like IHG Hotels.

Flexible Options

Always look for flexible booking options if your travel plans might change.

Accommodation Recommendations

Washington D.C. Provides quality places to stay for every preference and budget, ensuring a comfortable visit.

Top Picks for Different Budget Levels

Budget

HI Washington DC Hostel (central, social) or 2-star motels outside the city center with Metro access.

Mid-Range

Holiday Inn, Hampton Inn, Courtyard by Marriott, Embassy Suites (often include breakfast).

Luxury Hotels

The Hay-Adams

Beautiful views of the White House and Lafayette Square, known for its elegance and history.

  • Prime location near major landmarks.
  • Exceptional service.
The Willard InterContinental

A historic landmark near the National Mall, grand architecture and a storied past.

  • Hosted presidents and dignitaries.
  • Iconic meeting place.

Family-Friendly Options

  • Hotels with Suites and Kitchenettes

    Properties like Embassy Suites or Residence Inn offer more space and meal preparation facilities.

  • Accommodations with Swimming pools

    Look for hotels with indoor or outdoor pools for children to unwind.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Apartments or houses via Booking.com or Vrbo provide ample space and flexibility.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Hostels

    Offer a social atmosphere, making it easy to meet other travelers, at a lower cost. Check Hostelworld.

  • Well-Connected & Safe Neighborhoods

    Choose hotels in areas like Dupont Circle or Downtown, central with good Metro access and safe for exploration.

Long-Stay Accommodations

Extended Stay Hotels

Brands like Extended Stay America, Residence Inn, and Homewood Suites offer kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and amenities for longer visits.

  • Ideal for corporate travelers.
  • Good for family travels with self-catering.
Vacation Rentals

Apartments or condos via Booking.com or Vrbo provide a home-like environment for extended periods.

  • Greater space and privacy.
  • Full kitchen facilities.

Properties with Exceptional Cultural or Historical Significance

The Willard InterContinental

Hosted numerous presidents and played a role in the Civil Rights Movement. A truly iconic stay.

The Hay-Adams

Overlooking Lafayette Square and the White House, boasting a rich history and coveted views.

Phoenix Park Hotel

Near Union Station, this Irish-themed hotel holds historical connections and a distinctive ambiance.