Where to Stay in Washington DC – 8 TOP Areas (+Hotels!)

Washington DC, is one of the most important cities in the U.S. – it’s where the White House and the center of the 3 branches of the Federal Government are! As you plan a trip to this iconic city, I’m here to help you decide where to stay in Washington, DC!

I have visited Washington DC a couple of times, learnt so much about the city and the way it is organized and I will be happy to share the most tourist-friendly areas with you in this post! The city is pretty special in this way that most tourist attractions are located in the areas where there are not many accommodations options, but we will figure it out together, no worries!

National Mall is the best area for first-timers as it’s where important attractions are, but I’ve also got you covered with 7 more areas sorted by interest! For every area, I compared all the available hotels, handpicked the best-rated ones, and neatly organized them by budget! 

So, dear friend, after reading my post, your DC vacation planning will be quick as a wink, and best of all, you’ll know you’re getting the best bang for your buck! Sweet, right?

But please do book that hotel in DC fast! There’s always so much going on, and the good spots get booked fast!

Quick Picks for Your Stay

Here are the best of the best options for each price category:

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Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

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I’ve also prepared a map of Washington DC areas I’ll talk about in this post so you can easily visualize them: 

1. Around National Mall – where to stay in Washington, DC, for the first time

If you’re wondering, “Where should I stay in Washington DC for the first time?” – the National Mall is a great option!

The National Mall is the cultural hub of the city. It’s where the major sights are located, and the area is on the border between Northwest and Southwest Washington, DC. 

Start your stay by celebrating U.S. history at the Washington Monument, visiting the Lincoln Memorial, and then heading to the many museums like the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the National Gallery of Art, or the National Air and Space Museum!

PRO TIP: Night tours of the monuments in DC are quite the thing, so consider one if you’re bothered by the humidity during the day or are just looking for fun things to do at night! This guided tour is a top-seller!

If you’re visiting in spring, don’t miss the magical Cherry Blossoms in the Tidal Basin just next to the National Mall area! It’s the U.S. version of the iconic Sakura blossom in Japan!

Although there are plenty of things to do in the National Mall, the area is pretty quiet in the evening and at night. You’ll find a small selection of restaurants and even fewer hotels. The good part is that the Smithsonian Metro Station is just nearby, so you can quickly make it to other parts of the city!

I handpicked some really good accommodation options around so you can do all the sightseeing you want on foot:

Other accommodation options at the National Mall

Things to do at the National Mall 

• Admire the iconic Washington Monument
• Visit the Lincoln Memorial
• Take a night tour of all the important monuments
• Explore the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
• Take Insta-perfect photos at the Tidal Basin (only in spring)
• Be in awe of the artwork in the National Gallery of Art

2. Foggy Bottom and Georgetown – where to stay in Washington, DC, with family

Georgetown and Foggy Bottom are two hip neighborhoods separated by the Potomac River that attract families, backpackers, students, and politicians. Both are very very close to all the attractions and to the National Mall mentioned above. 

The Department of State, the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (including the Washington National Opera), and the George Washington University Campus are located in Foggy Bottom. It is also right around the corner from the White House!

Foggy Bottom got its name due to its foggy climate! Don’t be surprised to wake up and see ethereal fog out of the window! It’s completely normal here.

The area is just so tiny by itself, so I decided to merge it with charming Georgetown that is just 1,5 miles to the West. 

Georgetown is home to Georgetown University and the Waterfront Park with beautiful panoramic views. 

It is a trendy and historic neighborhood where you’ll find charming tree-lined, cobblestone streets and plenty of bike-friendly paths, and you’ll be close to the main attractions in the National Mall.

While you’re here, take a boat ride down the canal or visit the Georgetown Waterfront Park for a panoramic view of the Potomac River. I’m sure you won’t regret it! 

The vicinity to major sights, a ton load of fantastic restaurants and things to do, and more affordable accommodation make these 2 areas perfect for families with kids! We also have a separate article on the 19 best hotels in Washington, DC, for families, so check it out for more hotel inspiration! 

NOTE: Across the Potomac River from Georgetown, you’ll find the Rosslyn neighborhood in Arlington (10 minutes from Downtown DC) on a car. This is a heavily urbanized area with tons of hotels. You can check it out for more accommodation options or if you want to stay a bit closer to the airport!

Other accommodation options in Foggy Bottom and Georgetown

Things to do in Foggy Bottom and Georgetown

• Enjoy the Georgetown Waterfront Park
• Go on a historic tour of Georgetown
• Catch a free show at the Kennedy Center 
• Take a boat ride down the canal (rent at Thompson Boat Center)
• Have the kids explore the world of language learning at Planet Word

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3. Dupont Circle – the most trendy neighborhood

Located just 3 blocks North of the Downtown area, Dupont Circle (not to be confused with nearby Logan Circle) is the coolest neighborhood in the city. It is characterized by numerous art galleries, exclusive shops, bars, and nightlife. 

This neighborhood is famous for the Dupont Circle Fountain, a large fountain in the center of the Circle where travelers and locals alike hang out. 

Dupont Circle was named after Admiral Samuel Francis Du Pont, a celebrated U.S. Navy admiral who captured San Diego in the Mexican-American War (1846-1848).

The Circle is also home to interesting museums like The Phillips Collection for modern art and the Heurich House Museum, a 19th-century house with beer brewing history. 

Other highlights in the area of Dupont Circle include the Woodrow Wilson House, the Cathedral of the Apostles of St. Matthew, and the Brewery Castle. 

And if you are more of a person for a glass of a fine drink, Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe – a full-service restaurant and bar combined with an independent bookstore is a must-visit!

Another trendy area nearby is Shaw (like a continuation of Dupont), with plenty of nightclubs and bars, but also a legendary African-American theater, Howard Theater. 

P.S. Between Dupont Circle and Georgetown, you’ll find the West End district, where you can browse between a high concentration of hotels!

Other accommodation options in Dupont Circle, Washington

Things to do in Dupont Circle, Washington

• Check out all of the different cultural museums 
• Enjoy a book with your favorite cocktail at Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe
• Catch a show at DC Improv in Dupont Circle
• Have a picnic on the circle and then do the same at Logan Circle
• Go on an architecture tour of Dupont Circle and nearby Embassy Row

4. Downtown – where to stay in DC for luxury

Downtown DC is an area North of the National Mall and South of Logan Circle and Dupont Circle. It’s bordered by Georgetown to the West and Union Station to the East. 

Pre-covid, Downtown used to be a top area to stay in Washington. Since many businesses and hotels had to shut down during the lockdown, the center of the action has moved to Dupont Circle, Foggy Bottom, and other nearby areas. 

Still, Downtown is a good place to stay for shopping, luxury, and business. You’ll find tons of nightlife venues and fine dining options like Le Diplomate.

Important attractions include the National Geographic Museum, the Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Mount Vermont Square nearby. The Center covers a huge space with tons of shows throughout the year!

The Smithsonian group of museums is the largest of its kind in the world – the U.S. government developed this institution to boost the distribution of knowledge among the population! That’s also why the museums here are free!

In this chic neighborhood, travelers can find perfect stays for every taste and budget, from boutique hotels to family-friendly hotels to budget-friendly hotels. Still, this area has a super high concentration of luxury hotels.

Do note that it’s harder to find parking in this area. If you’re staying in a hotel with your car, make sure they offer a private one!

Other accommodation options in Downtown DC

Things to do in Downtown Washington DC

• Visit the National Geographic Museum
• Catch a show at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center
• See the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle
• Soak up history at Lafayette Square
• Admire the jewelry and stunning displays at Renwick Gallery

5. Penn Quarter and Chinatown – where to stay in DC for sightseeing

Penn Quarter and Chinatown are two highly central areas sandwiched between the White House and United States Capitol Hill, making them the perfect place to learn about American History! 

They’re both technically part of Downtown DC, but since they’re rich in attractions and offer many accommodation options, I decided to put them separately.

Penn Quarter and Chinatown are popular for sports events, entertainment, major museums, numerous restaurants (especially Asian, like Momiji), bars, and shopping. They really do have something for everyone and are within walking distance from everything cool!

Check out the most complete set of portraits of U.S.Presidents (outside the White House) at the National Portrait Gallery, enjoy some of the best meals in the country at one of the numerous celebrity chef-run restaurants, enjoy a game of professional sport (or a concert) at the Capital One Arena, or shop til you drop for dazzling Dior, Italian cashmere, and other pleasures at the CityCenterDC.

Here, you’ll also find the National Museum of Women in the Arts, the National Building Museum dedicated to kids (about architecture and engineering), and, maybe most importantly, the White House Visitor Center!

Penn Quarter and Chinatown are definitely some of the most eclectic places to stay in the city, so if you’re like me and always want a little of everything, this is the place for you! 

From here, you can also easily explore the nearby East End district and walk in the beautiful Lower Senate Park!

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P.S. Waldorf Astoria is another magical place in the area where you can get royal treatment a few blocks from the White House!

Other accommodation options in Penn Quarter and Chinatown

Things to do in Penn Quarter and Chinatown

• Walk to the United States Capitol Building
• Visit the National Portrait Gallery
• Shop at the CityCenterDC Mall
• Catch a show at Ford’s Theatre
• Snap a picture with a wax celebrity at Madame Tussauds

6. Capitol Hill – the best area to stay in Washington, DC, for history buffs

I know the whole of Washington is filled with history and politics on every corner, but Capitol Hill is like the center of it. The district is just East of the National Mall and is connected with the rest of the city with the fast Orange Line, so you can get to Downtown fast.

On Capitol Hill, you’ll find the U.S. Capitol, the House of Representatives, the Supreme Court, and the Senate – that is, all 3 branches of the Federal Government! It’s also where the Library of Congress, U.S. Botanic Garden, and the Folger Shakespeare Library are located. A true delicacy for history buffs!

Apart from the political stuff, Capitol Hill has its fair share of restaurants catering to foodies, especially in the Barracks Row Main Street! Go further up on 8th Street SE, and you’ll find tons of eateries and pubs, too!

Do note that accommodation in this area tends to be more expensive – after all, it is where all the big talks concerning national politics and the economy are being held!

Other accommodation options in Capitol Hill

Things to do in Capitol Hill

• Take a small-group guided tour of the Capitol and Library
• Buy fresh produce in the Eastern Market
• Go on a private night tour of the Capitol and other attractions
• Have a perfect Sunday brunch at the Barrel whiskey lounge

7. Waterfront and Navy Yard – where to stay for sports enthusiasts

If you’re in town for a baseball game or love the outdoors and recreation, Waterfront and Navy Yard are great places to stay! 

These districts between the Washington Channel and Anacostia River are connected to the rest of the city with the Green Line, but you can also take a bus or a cab to the National Mall or Downtown.

The Navy Yard Nationals Park is the top attraction, but you can also head to the Southwest Waterfront to enjoy the water sights or book a city cruise (this is a great agency for cruises)! 

Here, you’ll also find the Wharf, a chic event venue with plenty of restaurants, hotels, and things to do. I couldn’t recommend its Municipal Fish Market more for a truly local and fun experience for foodies!

Near the Wharf, you’ll find the legendary International Spy Museum, where you can learn all about the history of espionage and see some unique spy devices! It’s a super cool museum for the whole family to enjoy! 

Other accommodation options in Waterfront/Navy Yard

Things to do in Waterfront/Navy Yard

• Stroll along the Waterfront
• Rent a bike at the Wharf and explore the city on wheels
• Go on a self-driven boat tour or have a fancy dinner cruise 
• Take the kids to The Yards Park
• Visit the Municipal Fish Market
• Catch a game at the Nationals Park Stadium

8. Adams Morgan – where to stay in DC on a budget

Adams Morgan is one of the best places to stay in Washington, DC on a budget! This area in Northwest Washington is the multicultural hub of DC and is just a 10-minute drive North of the Downtown area.

Here, you will find the best international restaurants (think Himalayan, Armenian, Japanese, Mexican) and unique shopping. You’ll also find tons of nightlife options along the 18th Street Corridor!

Besides its great restaurants, nightlife, and an eclectic mix of people, Adams Morgan is also very close to the National Zoo, Rock Creek Park, and the DCA airport. 

Vintage lovers, remember to check out Meeps, (you’ll thank me later)! Alternatively, if you’re looking for more fun things to do in DC, try late-night Korean-style karaoke at Muzette. 

This diverse neighborhood seems to have it all, plus, being a little further away from the center, you will find more value for money from your accommodation.

NOTE: If you’re renting a car for your trip to DC, parking spots in the Adams Morgan neighborhood are quite limited. It’s worth factoring this into your choice of where to stay on a budget. 

Other Accommodation Options in Adams Morgan

Things to do in Adams Morgan

• Taste the international cuisine of the district
• See the National Zoo
• Check out the Duke Ellington Memorial Bridge
• Hunt for unique finds in vintage stores like Meeps
• Enjoy a picnic in Kalorama Park or the Walter Pierce Park

More Washington DC Suburbs to explore

If you’re looking to stay on a budget, you’ll want to explore these suburbs similar to Adams Morgan where you can also find cheaper accommodation. They all have public transport, so you can easily make it to the major sights, and if you’re traveling with a car, you have better chances of finding parking:

• Arlington – Closest one to Downtown, just across from the Theodore Roosevelt Bridge. It’s quite an urban area, and where the gravesite of John F. Kennedy is.
  Hyatt Centric Arlington ($$$), Residence Inn ($$), Best Western Plus ($), 
• Old Town Alexandria – A 20-minute ride from Downtown DC, has a beautiful Waterfront promenade, art galleries, and cool themed museums like the Apothecary one.
  Hotel Indigo ($$$), The Alexandrian Old Town ($$), Residence Inn ($)
• Crystal City – Closest area to the airport, lined with hotels along the Richmond Highway, and has plenty of high-rise buildings. It’s technically part of Arlington.
  Ritz Carlton ($$$), Embassy Suites ($$), Hampton Inn & Suites ($)

👑 Luxury price:	US$300
💵 Mid-range hotel:	US$230
🛏️ Budget:	US$150
📍 Best area:	National Mall
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Salamander
🧳 Best mid-range hotel:	Hilton Washington DC
👛 Best budget hotel:	Duo Nomad

BONUS: Unusual places to stay in Washington, DC

We all appreciate a comfortable bed and a good night’s sleep in an expensive hotel, but sometimes, we all yearn for something a little bit different. If you are one of those travelers who would think “Why stay in an ordinary B&B when you can spend the night in a (former) firehouse unit?” then check these last few recommendations.

Other unusual places to stay in Washington, DC

FAQs about where to stay in Washington, DC

Conclusion

So, there you have it – the complete guide for where to stay in Washington, DC, with everything you need to know to choose your perfect hotel. 

In this post, I’ve highlighted the 8 best neighborhoods and listed the top-rated hotels within them and all that will help you plan your trip faster and smoother!

Please make sure to book as soon as possible, as the best rooms book out quickly! 

And if you haven’t already decided on somewhere to stay, here are my 2 favorite places to stay in Washington, DC:

• The Hay – Adams – 5-star luxury accommodation enveloped by views of the White House
• Residence Inn by Marriott – mid-range hotel with an indoor pool and spacious studios

Of course, leave a comment if you have any questions about DC. I love reading and replying to them!

Have fun visiting Washington DC, 

Yulia

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