Washington, D.C. is a city with no shortage of excitement. From historic attractions to gorgeous scenery, tantalizing restaurants to try and countless stories to uncover, this city is the true city that never sleeps (move over, NYC!).
But you might want to catch a few zzz’s here and there, which is why it’s important to book a room at the right hotel. Finding the right hotel can be tricky, especially if you aren’t sure what to look for, are on a budget, or are traveling with a family.
If you’re looking for the best hotels in Washington, D.C., you’ve come to the right place. Here are some of our favorites.
Best Hotels in Washington, D.C. for Families
1. The Darcy
Owned by the Hilton property, this hotel is one of the best for tots. You can treat your children to the Capital Kiddos package.
This makes your kids feel special by adding a play tent set-up, ice cream, and homemade ice cream cookie sandwiches for four guests in your suite. Plus, kids can choose from four different “Darcy Daypacks,” which are special itineraries curated just for kids.
2. Washington Marriott Wardman Park
This hotel is a smaller hotel located right within the city limits. It is close to the zoo, which is perfect if you plan on taking advantage of the zoo package. This package offers all kinds of kid-friendly amenities like carousel tickets, a plush panda, and a zoo scavenger hunt.
The hotel is also conveniently located near the Woodley Park neighborhood and has an outdoor pool for your kids to burn off some energy during the warmer months.
3. Mandarin Oriental – Best Hotel in Washington, D.C. for Cherry Blossom Festival
If you’re headed to D.C. in the spring, you’re probably planning on taking in the Cherry Blossom Festival. Most of the blossoms are around the Tidal Basin, so you’ll want to look for hotels that are relatively close by.
The Mandarin Oriental is quite close to the Tidal Basin but doesn’t feel like it’s right in the middle of it all. The Mandarin has a gorgeous grand rotunda entrance and is hung with sleek Thai silks. The decor of this hotel is East-Meets-West and although the hotel caters to a business crowd during the week, it clears out for families on the weekend.
This hotel is best known for its spa and its 50-foot indoor pool. It also has its own ice fountain and an amethyst steam room! Some of the rooms at the Mandarin Oriental have rooms that look directly out over the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin.
4. InterContinental Washington DC – The Wharf
This hotel is just half a mile from the Tidal Basin. It’s a short walk away to take in all the sights and smells of this gorgeous festival.
You can also register for a room with a water view, which will let you look out over the countless cherry blossoms that line Hains Point and East Potomac Park on the opposing side of the slim Washington Channel. You’ll be able to see the fireworks from this hotel, too!
5. Holiday Inn Washington DC – Best Hotel in Washington, D.C. Near Smithsonian
The Holiday Inn in Washington, D.C. is not only a great spot for families, as it’s close to the zoo, but it also is near the Smithsonian. The National Mall is close by and allows you to view all kinds of historic monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial and the World War II Memorial.
6. Trump International Hotel Washington D.C.
If you’re looking for a hotel that’s within a stone’s throw of the Smithsonian, you should consider the Trump International Hotel. With more than 250 guestrooms, this hotel is also home to a full-service spa, a 24-hour health club, a business center, child care, and more.
It’s also less than a ten-minute walk to the Smithsonian Institute, so if you’re planning on visiting that top destination, this hotel should be at the top of your list, too.
7. JW Marriott Washington, D.C. – Best Hotel in Washington, D.C. for Tourists
The JW Marriott in Washington DC is within walking distance of the White House, which is without a doubt one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. This tourist-friendly hotel is also close to the National Theater, which will allow you to take in breathtaking performances.
8. Courtyard by Marriott Washington Downtown/Convention Center – Best Hotel in Washington, D.C. Near Convention Center
Whether you’re visiting Washington, D.C. for business or for pleasure, it can be quite beneficial to book a room that’s close to the convention center. The Courtyard by Marriot is just a four-minute walk from the convention center and is also just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Capital One Arena and the Capitol Building.
This hotel is a lovely rooftop terrace where you can drink your morning coffee along with its own restaurant and bar. It’s also home to more than 350 smoke-free guestrooms.
Residence Inn by Marriott Washington Downtown/Convention Center
With more than 500 smoke-free guestrooms along with its own restaurant, bar, and rooftop terrace, the Residence Inn by Marriott is incredibly close to downtown Washington, D.C. It’s less than a five-minute walk from the convention center and is also close to the White House, the National Museum of Natural History, and other landmarks.
This hotel is great for extended stays, too, as it has laundry facilities, a free full breakfast, and even free grocery shopping services.
Moxy Washington, DC Downtown
Think outside the box by staying at the Moxy in Washington, D.C. this eclectic, upscale hotel is just a ten-minute walk to the convention center but is also close to the Capital One Arena, the White House, and the National Mall.
You’ll love wandering the property of this hotel, which features gardens and a beautiful terrace. It’s a smaller hotel with only 200 guest rooms, but it also has its own restaurant and bar along with daily breakfast services.
9. Park Hyatt Washington D.C. – Best Hotel in Washington, D.C. With Pool
The Park Hyatt was just renovated in 2017 and has a uniquely sophisticated feel. It’s not as close to some of the other major tourist attractions as other D.C. hotels, but it has a gorgeous pool that’s perfect for doing laps or simply lounging.
It is also home to the Blue Duck Tavern And its Tea Cellar. These establishments are worth paying a visit to even if you don’t book a room at the Park Hyatt.
10. The Watergate Hotel
The Watergate Hotel was restored in 2016 and is a favorite among vacationers and politicians alike. Home to 336 luxury rooms, this hotel is located in Georgetown.
It has an iconic grand staircase in the lobby and a large indoor pool. All room interiors are fresh and designed with a unique modern flair. Most rooms have balconies, too!
11. The Embassy Row Hotel
This hotel doesn’t just have a pool – it has a ninth-floor rooftop pool! It’s only open on a seasonal basis, but in the summertime, you’ll love lounging by the pool and enjoying a cocktail from the rooftop bar. There’s also a grill and some daybeds up here. The hotel is also home to an adult playground, yoga on the roof, and Union Kitchen, the in-hotel restaurant.
12. Four Seasons Hotel
The Four Seasons in Washington, D.C. is technically in Georgetown but it offers plenty of perks to travelers. Among these is the three-story fitness center – which has its own saltwater lap pool. Plus, this hotel is its own art gallery with more than 1,500 artistic pieces to explore.
13. Grand Hyatt Washington – Best Hotel in Washington, D.C. Close to Metro
The Grand Hyatt Washington makes exploring Washington, D.C. easy. It’s close to the Metro, so you’ll have ample access to the National Mall. This hotel’s location also puts it close to the Capitol Arena and CityCenterDC. If you want to catch a game or enjoy some shopping, this hotel truly offers it all.
14. Embassy Row Hotel
The Embassy Row Hotel is an award-winning boutique hotel near Dupont Circle in D.C. It offers guests access to the 24/7 business and fitness centers. Plus, it’s home to the Coffeehouse, the 24-hour Chef’s Pantry, and Station Kitchen and Cocktails, too.
Best yet? You’re close to the Metro Station (just one block away). You’ll be able to explore the rest of the nation’s capital with ease and be able to relax in a stylish, comfortable hotel by night.
Find Best Hotels in Washington, D.C. With Ease
With all kinds of history to explore, Washington, D.C. will keep you busy at all times. When it’s time to take a break, relax at one of the city’s top hotels. There are all kinds of pioneering boutique hotels and design-forward accommodations. The hotel scene in D.C. has diversity and style that is befitting for a city with such a profound global reputation!