Discover the Ultimate Guide to Washington DC Hotels

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Best Areas to Stay in Washington DC
3. Downtown
4. Convention Center
5. Georgetown / Foggy Bottom
6. Dupont Circle
7. Union Station
8. Woodley Park
9. Southwest DC
10. Navy Yard Metro
11. Crystal City
12. North Arlington
13. Old Town Alexandria
14. Conclusion

Article

Best Areas to Stay in Washington DC

If you're planning a trip to Washington DC and need some guidance on where to stay, you're in the right place. In this article, we will explore the best areas in Washington DC for tourists to stay. Whether you're interested in sightseeing, nightlife, or convenience, we have got you covered.

Downtown

For most tourists, downtown Washington DC is the ideal location to stay. The area around the White House offers a perfect mix of sightseeing opportunities, easy access to transportation, and a vibrant nightlife. Many popular restaurants and attractions are within walking distance, and there are several metro lines that connect to various parts of the city.

Convention Center

If you're visiting Washington DC for a big event or conference, staying near the Convention Center would be a smart choice. Not only will you be close to the venue, but you'll also have easy access to the Capitol and the museums on the National Mall. This area is also convenient if you're attending a concert or a game at the Capital One Center, as you won't have to worry about transportation.

Georgetown / Foggy Bottom

The Georgetown and Foggy Bottom area is known for its luxurious hotels and upscale vibe. While most hotels with "Georgetown" in their name aren't actually in the heart of Georgetown, they are located nearby. This area is perfect if you want to be close to Georgetown and the monuments on the National Mall. The Foggy Bottom metro station provides easy transportation options.

Dupont Circle

Dupont Circle is another popular area for tourists to stay in. It offers easy access to nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants along Connecticut Avenue. This area is also within walking distance of the Adams Morgan corridor and the U Street corridor, two major nightlife hubs in DC. While it's a bit farther from the National Mall, metro access is available.

Union Station

If you're arriving in Washington DC by train or simply value easy access to transportation, staying around Union Station is a great option. Not only will you be close to the Capitol, but you'll also have quick access to the museums, monuments, and memorials on the National Mall. Just make sure to choose a hotel that is directly adjacent to Union Station to avoid any confusion.

Woodley Park

Woodley Park is an excellent choice for those who want to be close to the National Zoo. It's a popular area for conferences and offers great deals on hotels when there are no events taking place. While most tourism activities require using the Metro's red line, it's a convenient option for exploring the city.

Southwest DC

The southwest quadrant of Washington DC has undergone massive development in recent years, particularly with the opening of the Wharf. This area offers a unique experience for tourists, with brand-new hotels and easy access to the museums on the National Mall. While restaurants and nightlife options might be limited, there is a free Southwest shuttle available.

Navy Yard Metro

If you're visiting Washington DC to catch a baseball game at Nationals Ballpark, staying around the Navy Yard Metro is your best bet. You'll be within walking distance of the stadium and only a short walk to the Capitol. The Navy Yard metro station provides easy access to the Green Line for exploring other parts of the city.

Crystal City

Located near Ronald Reagan National Airport, Crystal City is an ideal location for travelers who need to catch early morning flights or prefer the convenience of an airport hotel. It's only three stops on the yellow line to reach the National Mall, making it a decent option for sightseeing as well.

North Arlington

If you're considering staying in Virginia, the Rosslyn or Court House metro stations are the recommended areas. Staying farther west would result in higher Metro fares due to distance-based pricing. While staying in the city is more convenient, North Arlington offers a suburban alternative that is still accessible via Metro.

Old Town Alexandria

Old Town Alexandria is a historic area known for its charming atmosphere and unique attractions. While it's a bit farther away from DC, it's a great option for a day trip or for those who plan to spend a significant amount of time in Old Town. Metro or taxi options are available for commuting into the city.

In conclusion, Washington DC offers a range of areas to stay that cater to different interests and preferences. From downtown's convenience to Georgetown's luxury and Old Town Alexandria's charm, there is an option for every traveler. Consider your priorities and choose the area that best suits your needs for an unforgettable stay in the nation's capital.

Highlights

• Downtown Washington DC offers a perfect mix of sightseeing, transportation, and nightlife.
• Staying near the Convention Center is convenient for events and provides easy access to the Capitol and museums.
• Georgetown/Foggy Bottom is ideal for luxury hotels and being close to Georgetown and the National Mall.
• Dupont Circle offers easy access to nightlife and is within walking distance of popular nightlife areas.
• Union Station provides easy transportation access to the Capitol and National Mall.
• Woodley Park is a great choice for proximity to the National Zoo and offers deals during non-event periods.
• Southwest DC is a newly developed area with brand-new hotels and easy access to the National Mall.
• Crystal City is perfect for airport travelers or early morning flights and has easy Metro access.
• North Arlington offers a suburban alternative to staying in the city, with accessible Metro stations.
• Old Town Alexandria is a historic area with charm, but is farther away from DC.

FAQ

Q: Which area offers the best nightlife in Washington DC? A: Dupont Circle and the nearby U Street and Adams Morgan corridors are known for their vibrant nightlife.

Q: What is the best area to stay in for sightseeing in Washington DC? A: Downtown is the most convenient area for sightseeing, with easy access to the major attractions.

Q: Are there hotels near the National Mall? A: While there are no hotels directly on the National Mall, downtown hotels offer close proximity to the Mall.

Q: Is it better to stay in Washington DC or in a suburb? A: Staying in Washington DC is generally more convenient, but if you prefer a suburban experience, North Arlington is a good option.

Q: Which area offers the best luxury hotels in Washington DC? A: Georgetown and Foggy Bottom are known for their high-end hotels, such as the Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton.