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Best Hotels in Washington DC for Sightseeing

Washington DC is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant neighborhoods, making it one of the most sought-after destinations for tourists. However, one of the most common questions that visitors ask is, “Where should I stay while exploring the city?” Whether you’re looking for kid-friendly accommodations, luxurious amenities, or a hotel within walking distance of the city’s top attractions, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial for a memorable trip. At USA Guided Tours, we not only offer you the best sightseeing experiences but also recommend some of the finest hotels in DC that cater to every type of traveler.

Overview of Washington DC Neighborhoods

Washington DC is home to several distinct neighborhoods, each offering its own unique charm and proximity to the city’s top attractions. Here’s a brief overview of the areas where you can find some of the best hotels:

Woodley Park: A serene residential neighborhood known for its tree-lined streets and proximity to the National Zoo. It’s about 2 miles (a 30 – 40-minute walk) from the National Mall.

Dupont Circle: A lively area with a mix of historic architecture, trendy eateries, and easy access to museums and galleries. Located approximately 1.5 miles (a 20 – 30-minute walk) from the National Mall.

Downtown (including Penn Quarter): The heart of DC, where you’ll find government buildings, the White House, and easy access to the National Mall. Most Downtown hotels are within 0.5 to 1 mile (a 10- to 15-minute walk) from the National Mall.

Capitol Hill: Close to the U.S. Capitol and other historic landmarks, offering a quieter, more residential feel. Capitol Hill is about 1 mile (a 10 – 15-minute walk) from the eastern end of the National Mall.

National Harbor (nearby in Maryland): A vibrant waterfront destination just outside DC, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment. It’s about 10 miles from the National Mall, but easily accessible by car or public transit.

Woodley Park Hotels

Nestled in a quiet, residential area, Woodley Park offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to the action. This neighborhood is known for its beautiful historic homes and the famous National Zoo, which is a must-visit for families. 

  – Located at the edge of Rock Creek Park, the Omni Shoreham Hotel is a historic and luxurious hotel that has hosted presidents, world leaders, and inaugural balls since 1930. The hotel features spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and beautiful gardens, making it an excellent choice for families. The National Zoo is just a short walk away, and the hotel is about 2 miles (a 25 – 35-minute walk) from the National Mall, or a quick Metro ride.

Dupont Circle Hotels

Dupont Circle is a favorite among tourists and locals alike, thanks to its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. This vibrant neighborhood is an excellent base for exploring DC, with its proximity to the National Mall and the Smithsonian museums.

  – The Embassy Suites Convention Center is perfect for families and groups, offering spacious two-room suites with separate living areas, free cooked-to-order breakfast, and an evening reception with snacks and drinks. Located just a 1.5-mile (20 – 25-minute walk) from the National Mall, this hotel is also within walking distance to the White House and other major attractions.

Dupont Circle Fountain

Downtown (including Penn Quarter)Hotels

Staying in Downtown DC means you’re in the thick of it all. This bustling area is home to many of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the White House, the National Archives, and the Smithsonian museums. 

  – The Grand Hyatt Washington offers luxurious accommodations just steps away from the National Mall, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers. With direct access to the Metro Center, getting around the city is a breeze. The hotel features modern rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and several on-site dining options. The National Mall is just 0.7 miles (a 10-minute walk) away.

  – Situated near Dupont Circle, the Washington Hilton is a large, upscale hotel known for its excellent service and amenities, including a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a range of dining options. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore the nearby attractions, and it’s about 1.2 miles (a 15 – 20-minute walk) from the National Mall.

Capitol Hill Hotels

Capitol Hill is a quieter neighborhood with a more residential feel, yet it’s close to many of DC’s most famous landmarks, including the U.S. Capitol, the Supreme Court, and the Library of Congress.

  – The Capitol Hill Hotel offers boutique accommodations in the heart of Capitol Hill. This charming hotel is located in a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood just a block away from the U.S. Capitol. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites with kitchenettes, making it a perfect choice for extended stays. The National Mall is just 1 mile (a 20-minute walk) away, offering easy access to the city’s top attractions.

National Harbor Hotels

For those looking for a vibrant waterfront experience just outside the city, National Harbor in Maryland is an excellent choice. This area is home to a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options, all set along the picturesque Potomac River.

  – The Wyndham National Harbor offers modern accommodations with stunning views of the Potomac River. The hotel features spacious suites with full kitchens, ideal for families and extended stays. National Harbor is about 10 miles from the National Mall, but with easy access to public transportation, you can be in the heart of DC in no time.

Washington, D.C. from a Local Expert: Beyond Capitol Hill
Buildings along the Potomac River waterfront at night, in National Harbor, Maryland.

Kid-Friendly Hotels

When traveling with children, finding a hotel that caters to the needs of young guests is essential. Washington DC offers several family-friendly hotels that provide amenities and services tailored to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

  – The Omni Shoreham Hotel, located in Woodley Park, is a historic hotel that has welcomed guests since 1930. This hotel is particularly well-suited for families, offering large, comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and beautiful grounds. The hotel’s proximity to the National Zoo makes it a hit with kids, and the peaceful surroundings offer a welcome respite after a day of sightseeing. The National Mall is about 2 miles (a 40-minute walk) away, or you can take a quick ride on the Metro.

  – Another fantastic option for families is the Embassy Suites Convention Center. Located in Dupont Circle, this hotel offers spacious two-room suites that provide plenty of space for families to spread out. With amenities like a free cooked-to-order breakfast and an evening reception with snacks and drinks, it’s easy to see why this hotel is a favorite among families. The hotel is about 1.5 miles (a 30-minute walk) from the National Mall, making it easy to explore the city’s top attractions.

Affordable Hotels

Exploring Washington DC doesn’t have to break the bank. The city offers a variety of budget-friendly hotels that provide comfort, convenience, and easy access to the city’s most iconic attractions. Here are some top picks:

  – The Holiday Inn Washington Capitol is a top choice for travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing proximity to major attractions. Located just steps from the National Mall, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant. The National Air and Space Museum is right around the corner, and the rest of the National Mall’s museums and monuments are just a short walk away. It’s an ideal base for budget-conscious travelers who want to be in the heart of the action.

  – The Marriott Metro Center is another excellent budget-friendly option in Downtown DC. This hotel offers modern accommodations and easy access to the Metro, making it convenient for exploring the entire city. It’s just 0.7 miles (a 10-minute walk) from the National Mall, and close to several shopping and dining options. The Marriott Metro Center combines affordability with the high standards you’d expect from a Marriott hotel.

Luxury Hotels

For those looking to indulge in luxury, Washington DC offers some of the finest hotels, each providing high-end amenities, exceptional service, and a touch of elegance. Here are some top luxury hotels in DC:

  – The Conrad Washington DC is a modern luxury hotel located in the heart of Downtown DC, just steps away from the National Mall. This hotel offers breathtaking views of the city, a rooftop bar, and state-of-the-art amenities. With its sleek design and world-class service, The Conrad is perfect for travelers seeking a high-end experience. The National Mall is just 0.6 miles (a 12-minute walk) away, making it convenient for both sightseeing and business.

  – The Mayflower Hotel is one of DC’s most iconic hotels, known for its rich history and luxurious accommodations. Located near Dupont Circle, this grand hotel offers elegant rooms, fine dining, and a fitness center. The Mayflower’s central location means you’re just 1 mile (a 20-minute walk) from the National Mall and other top attractions. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to experience the best of Washington DC in style.

US Capitol Building at Sunrise
US Capitol Building at Sunrise

Hotels Within Walking Distance to Major Attractions

Staying close to the city’s top attractions can make your sightseeing experience more convenient and enjoyable. Here are some hotels located within walking distance of the National Mall and Smithsonian museums:

  – The Grand Hyatt Washington offers luxurious accommodations just steps away from the National Mall, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers. With direct access to the Metro Center, getting around the city is a breeze. The hotel features modern rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and several on-site dining options. The National Mall is just 0.7 miles (a 15-minute walk) away.

  – Situated near Dupont Circle, the Washington Hilton is a large, upscale hotel known for its excellent service and amenities, including a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a range of dining options. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore the nearby attractions, and it’s about 1.2 miles (a 25-minute walk) from the National Mall.

  – The Mayflower Hotel is conveniently located near Dupont Circle, making it just 1 mile (a 20-minute walk) from the National Mall. Its elegant design, historic charm, and proximity to DC’s top attractions make it an excellent choice for travelers who want to experience the best of the city.

Open-Top or Closed-Top Convertible Bus

Hotels Partnered with USA Guided Tours

Booking a hotel that partners with USA Guided Tours offers added benefits, including special packages and discounts and free pick up and drop off service for customers who book a tour. Here are the hotels we partner with:

  – The Omni Shoreham Hotel is a historic hotel located in the Woodley Park neighborhood. As a partner of USA Guided Tours, guests staying at the Omni Shoreham can enjoy exclusive deals and packages that include guided tours of Washington DC. The hotel’s close proximity to the National Zoo and the Metro makes it an ideal choice for families and those looking to explore the city with ease.

  – Located near Dupont Circle, the Washington Hilton is a large, upscale hotel known for its excellent service and amenities, including a seasonal outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a range of dining options. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby attractions, and it’s about 1.2 miles (a 15 – 20-minute walk) from the National Mall.

  – The Mayflower Hotel, an Autograph Collection property, is known for its luxurious accommodations and historic charm. As a partner of USA Guided Tours, The Mayflower offers special rates and packages for guests looking to combine their stay with guided tours of Washington DC. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to explore the city, with the National Mall just a short walk away.

  – The Grand Hyatt Washington is located in the heart of Downtown DC and offers direct access to the Metro. Guests who book their stay through USA Guided Tours can take advantage of special packages that include accommodations and guided tours, making it easy to explore the city’s top attractions. The National Mall is just 0.7 miles (a 10-minute walk) away.

  – The Wyndham National Harbor is located just outside DC in the vibrant National Harbor area. This hotel offers spacious accommodations with stunning views of the Potomac River. Guests can enjoy exclusive deals and discounts when booking their stay through USA Guided Tours, making it a great choice for those who want to experience both the city and the waterfront.

  – The Holiday Inn Washington Capitol is a top choice for travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing proximity to major attractions. Located just steps from the National Mall, this hotel offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.

  – The Conrad Washington DC is a modern luxury hotel located in the heart of Downtown DC, just steps away from the National Mall. This hotel offers breathtaking views of the city, a rooftop bar, and state-of-the-art amenities.

  – The Embassy Suites Convention Center is perfect for families and groups, offering spacious two-room suites with separate living areas, free cooked-to-order breakfast, and an evening reception with snacks and drinks. Guests booking through USA Guided Tours can take advantage of special deals and packages, making their stay in DC both comfortable and convenient.

  – The Marriott Metro Center is located in the heart of Downtown DC and offers modern accommodations with easy access to the Metro.

Finding the perfect hotel is an essential part of planning your trip to Washington DC. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly option, a luxurious retreat, or a budget-friendly stay close to the city’s top attractions, there’s a hotel to suit every traveler’s needs. By booking your hotel and tours with USA Guided Tours, you can ensure a seamless and memorable experience in the nation’s capital!

USA Guided Tours Blogging Team

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