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When you think about a trip to Washington DC it is hard not to be impressed with its impact on our nation’s history and the numerous iconic locations, monuments, museums, and cultural centers. This tiny area nestled between Virginia and Maryland packs a pretty big punch. Just like any vacation preparation, figuring out where you are going to stay is just as important as what you are going to see. Here are some of the best places to stay in Washington DC.

Best Affordable Places to Stay in Washington DC

Washington DC can be an expensive place to live and there are plenty of high-end hotels with swanky rooftop pools and luxurious amenities. But surprisingly, there are also a number of very affordable rentals in and around Washington DC. Here are a few of the Best Vrbo rentals in Washington DC if you want to save a few bucks.

Best Places to Stay in Washington DC for Families

Washington DC is a great place to visit with families with so much culture and history to explore. Rather than holing up in a generic Hilton or Marriott, why not try one of these lovely family-friendly places to stay?

Best Places To Stay In Washington DC Near Sightseeing

Washington DC might just be the most popular sightseeing destination in the US. Or, at least the one with the highest number of attractions, monuments, museums, and well-known historical buildings all in one area. Here are a few places to stay in close proximity to key sightseeing locations throughout Washington DC.

Best Walkable Places To Stay In Washington DC

Washington DC is one of the most walkable areas of the United States. If you can’t walk directly to your destination, you have numerous public transportation options to choose from. To make things even easier for your trip to DC here are a couple of the top places to stay in Washington DC where you can get pretty much anywhere you want to go just by walking.

If you are in town for work or play, or a little of both, your trip to Washington DC should be a memorable one. Hopefully, our selection of some of the best places to stay in Washington DC has gotten you excited for the next phase of your trip. If you have discovered some amazing places to stay in DC please share them with a comment.

If you need some inspiration on what to see and do while in Washington DC, here is a guide to some of the best attractions and sights to add to your itinerary.

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Where to stay in Washington DC

Where is the safest place to stay in Washington DC?

Washington DC is relatively safe for travelers, but with any major city, it is always a good idea to take precautions and ask locals what areas you might want to avoid. There are six main parts of the city, each with its own unique features and vibes:

  • Logan Circle: This trendy part of DC is where the best nightlife can be found. From Studio Theater to happening bars and restaurants, there is a ton of fun to be had in Logan Circle. Some of the popular hotels in the area are the Viceroy and the Washington Plaza Hotel.
  • Dupont Circle: Home of the iconic Dupont Circle Hotel the Dupont Circle is the best part of town for culture and museums. The Adams Morgan neighborhood is particularly happening around 18th Street with eclectic bars, music venues, and international restaurants.
  • Downtown DC: Downtown Washington DC is located just north of The White House and is a great place to explore for first-time visitors and history buffs. If you are looking for a really swanky luxury hotel try The Hay-Adams. This 5-star boutique hotel was named the best hotel in Washington DC.
  • Chinatown: This portion of DC just north of Penn Quarter, is a great place for foodies and budget travelers.
  • Georgetown: Georgetown is a lovely area for families and shopping. It is a beautiful art along the Potomac River, especially in the Georgetown Waterfront Park.
  • Capitol Hill: If you are a political junky you'll know all about this area of DC along Pennsylvania Avenue. The Capitol Hill Hotel is a popular place to stay with easy access to the Smithsonian museums to the west, the Capital, and of course The White House.

 

What is the best time to visit Washington DC?

The best time to visit Washington DC is in the fall from September to November when the summer tourist crowds start to thin and the weather cools. With beautiful fall foliage set against stunning views of the Washington Channel and the Wharf. Springtime is also a beautiful time to visit Washington DC between March and May when the cherry blossoms burst into life around the Tidal Basin and the Washington Monument.

How many days do you need in Washington DC?

With so many attractions and sightseeing to do around DC, you could take as much time as you need checking out places like the Smithsonian, American Art Museum, the Capital building, numerous art galleries, and of course The White House and everything you'll find along the National Mall. No matter if you take a short weekend getaway or a longer week-plus stay you'll find plenty to do around Washington DC.