Planning a family trip to Washington, DC? You’re in for an unforgettable experience exploring the rich history, iconic monuments, and countless museums in the nation’s capital. Choosing the right accommodation for your loved ones is crucial to ensure everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable stay. This article will guide you in finding family-friendly hotels located near the city’s main attractions.
Washington, DC offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and appeal. From the historic Foggy Bottom to the vibrant H Street Corridor, there are numerous accommodation options catering to families. Hotels such as the Four Seasons on Pennsylvania Avenue provide a range of amenities like board games, baby monitors, and strollers, ensuring both parents and kids have a hassle-free experience.
Apart from luxury options, the city also boasts budget-friendly alternatives like the Hampton Inn Washington DC/White House, which is just a 10-minute walk from the National Mall. Keeping your family’s interests, budget, and preferences in mind, this article will delve deeper into the various accommodation options available in Washington, DC, so that you can make an informed decision for your next unforgettable family vacation.
Where To Stay
Neighborhood Overview
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is not only the political center of Washington DC but also a great place to stay for families. Notably, it offers a more budget-friendly accommodation option, with rooms as low as $60 a night. The tranquil neighborhood is just a few steps away from the Capitol Building, Library of Congress, and Union Station.
Fun Fact or Interesting Story – Capitol Hill got its name from the iconic Capitol Building. It’s one of the oldest residential neighborhoods in Washington DC.
Things to do – Visit the Library of Congress, explore the U.S. Botanic Garden, and stroll through Eastern Market.
Dupont Circle
Dupont Circle offers a lively, walkable atmosphere perfect for families visiting Washington DC. The neighborhood boasts a variety of dining options and tree-lined streets, ensuring a pleasant stay for everyone.
Fun Fact or Interesting Story – Dupont Circle is named after the traffic circle in the center of the neighborhood. It features a large marble fountain with a history dating back to 1921.
Things to do – Admire the art collections at the Phillips Collection, visit the embassies on Embassy Row, and enjoy the diverse food offerings.
National Harbor
National Harbor is a modern, waterfront destination ideal for family vacations. With numerous family-friendly attractions, restaurants, and shopping options, it’s an excellent place to stay during your visit to Washington DC.
Fun Fact or Interesting Story – National Harbor was once a plantation, but now it’s home to an impressive 180-foot tall Ferris wheel called The Capital Wheel, offering breathtaking views.
Things to do – Take a ride on The Capital Wheel, explore the National Children’s Museum, and enjoy outdoor movies during summer nights.
Foggy Bottom
Located near the heart of Washington DC, Foggy Bottom is a top choice for first-time visitors with families. The neighborhood is home to many iconic attractions, such as the Kennedy Center and the Watergate complex.
Fun Fact or Interesting Story – Foggy Bottom got its name from the fog that used to settle along the banks of the Potomac River. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Washington DC.
Things to do – Visit the Kennedy Center for performing arts, take a walk along the Georgetown Waterfront, and explore the nearby Lincoln Memorial.
Top Family-Friendly Hotels
Fairmont Washington D.C.
The Fairmont Washington D.C. is a great choice for families visiting the city. This luxurious hotel offers a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable, including a fitness center and spa, indoor pool, and supervised activities for kids. The hotel’s prime location provides easy access to the National Mall and various museums, ensuring your family has a fun-filled itinerary.
Fun Fact: The Fairmont has a Canine Ambassador, a friendly dog named Georgie, who greets guests in the lobby.
Things to do: Explore the nearby Georgetown neighborhood, visit the National Zoo, or take a stroll along the Potomac River.
The Hay-Adams
The historic Hay-Adams hotel offers a blend of elegance and child-friendly amenities. The hotel’s babysitting services allow parents to enjoy a night out in the city, while kids can enjoy complimentary cookies and milk during turndown. The Hay-Adams is located near the White House and many other worthwhile sights, making it a great home base for exploring Washington, D.C.
Interesting Story: The hotel is named after two historical figures, John Hay and Henry Adams, who once resided on the land where the hotel now stands.
Things to do: Visit the nearby National Museum of American History, or take a sightseeing tour around the city’s numerous landmarks.
Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC
The luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC caters to both adults and children with world-class services. The hotel offers a range of child-friendly amenities, such as complimentary cribs, bottle warmers, and even a Kids for All Seasons program, which organizes activities for children aged four to 12. Plus, the hotel’s central location allows easy access to the city’s major attractions.
Fun Fact: The Four Seasons is home to a stunning art collection featuring works from renowned artists such as Andy Warhol and Alex Katz.
Things to do: Visit the National Gallery of Art located nearby, explore the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum, or take a family bike tour to see the city’s monuments.
Budget Accommodations
Visiting Washington D.C. with your family does not have to break the bank. Here are some budget-friendly accommodation options that offer comfort and convenience without sacrificing on fun and accessibility to attractions.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington D.C.
The Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington D.C. is a popular choice among families looking for an affordable stay. Located close to popular attractions like the National Mall and the Smithsonian Museums, Embassy Suites offers spacious suites that can accommodate a family comfortably.
Complimentary amenities:
- Free made-to-order breakfast
- Evening reception with snacks and beverages
- WiFi access (in-room and hotel lobby)
- Indoor pool and fitness center
Interesting fact: The Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington D.C. is housed in a historic building, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich architectural heritage.
Holiday Inn Washington-Central/White House
Another excellent choice for families on a budget is the Holiday Inn Washington-Central/White House. It is situated within walking distance to the White House, Smithsonian Museums, and other major sights. The hotel offers family-friendly rooms and great amenities.
Notable features:
- Kids Stay and Eat Free program
- On-site restaurant serving American cuisine
- Outdoor rooftop swimming pool
- Fitness center
Fun fact: The Holiday Inn Washington-Central/White House features artwork by local artists in its rooms and public spaces, showcasing the city’s creative spirit.
Things to do
While staying in one of these budget accommodations, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities nearby:
- Visit the National Mall to see iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.
- Explore the countless free Smithsonian Museums such as the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of Natural History.
- Wander around Georgetown’s cobblestone streets, and try various cuisines at its numerous cafes and restaurants.
- Plan a picnic in the National Arboretum, which houses the historic National Capitol Columns and is an excellent spot to relax and enjoy nature.
Washington D.C. is a vibrant and bustling city that offers numerous budget-friendly accommodation options and a plethora of family activities, making it an ideal destination for your next family vacation.
Vacation Rentals
Washington DC offers various vacation rental options for families, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. In this section, we will explore two family-friendly choices: M Street Rowhouse and Family-Friendly Townhouse.
M Street Rowhouse
The M Street Rowhouse is a popular vacation rental located in the bustling district of Washington DC. This charming townhouse offers a cozy atmosphere, making it perfect for families:
- Spacious rooms: The rowhouse features multiple bedrooms, ensuring that every family member has a private space to relax after a busy day of sightseeing.
- Fully-equipped kitchen: Preparing meals together or enjoying takeout from the numerous local restaurants is a breeze with this well-stocked kitchen.
- Outdoor space: An inviting patio allows the whole family to soak up the sun and enjoy the fresh air during their stay.
- Location: Situated within walking distance of major attractions, M Street Rowhouse provides an ideal starting point for exploring Washington DC.
Family-Friendly Townhouse
Another excellent rental option is the Family-Friendly Townhouse, which caters specifically to the needs of families with children:
- Kid-friendly amenities: This townhouse comes with a pack and play, a high chair, a stroller, and even a car seat, ensuring that families with young children have all the essentials they need for a comfortable stay.
- Large common spaces: The open living and dining areas invite family members to relax, play, and bond during downtime.
- Quiet neighborhood: Located in a serene part of the city, this townhouse offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of Washington DC.
- Proximity to attractions: Many family-friendly sights and activities are within a short distance from this cozy home base.
Fun Fact or Interesting Story
Did you know that the White House, one of Washington DC’s most famous landmarks, has a total of 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, and 412 doors? While you can’t actually stay in the White House, these vacation rentals give families the opportunity to create their own memorable stories in the nation’s capital.
Things to do
While staying in these vacation rentals, families can explore various attractions and activities in Washington DC, such as:
- Visit the Smithsonian museums, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History.
- Take a leisurely stroll around the National Mall, stopping by the iconic Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.
- Explore the interactive exhibits at the International Spy Museum.
- Experience the rich history of the city on a guided walking tour or bike tour.
Tips for Choosing the Right Accommodation
When planning a family trip to Washington DC, finding the perfect accommodation can be a crucial factor in making your trip enjoyable and stress-free. Here are some tips to help you choose the right place for your family to stay.
First, consider the location of your accommodation. Proximity to attractions and public transportation is a top priority. The downtown area around the White House is convenient for most tourists because it offers easy access to the National Mall and other popular attractions.
Budget is always a factor to consider when choosing a place to stay. If you’re looking to save money while visiting Washington DC, consider staying in Logan Circle, as it offers affordable accommodation options without compromising on convenience.
Next, evaluate the available amenities. Family-friendly hotels, such as the Grand Hyatt Washington and Hyatt House Washington D.C/The Wharf, offer comfortable and spacious rooms, suitable for families. Be sure to look for hotels with amenities like swimming pools, kids’ clubs, and inclusive breakfast options.
Here’s a list of features you may want to consider when selecting family accommodations in Washington DC:
- Proximity to attractions
- Access to public transportation
- Budget-friendly options
- Family-friendly amenities (swimming pools, kids’ clubs, etc.)
- Inclusive meal options
- Spacious rooms
Fun Fact or Interesting Story
Did you know that Washington DC has numerous free attractions and museums for families to visit? The Smithsonian Institution, which includes 19 museums and galleries, as well as the National Zoo, offers free admission to all visitors. This makes Washington DC a budget-friendly destination for families looking to explore and learn together.
Things to do in Washington DC
While in Washington DC, your family can enjoy various activities, such as visiting the National Mall, touring the White House, and exploring the various Smithsonian museums. Don’t forget to take a stroll through the historic Georgetown neighborhood, stop by the National Zoo to see the famous pandas, and catch a glimpse of the beautiful cherry blossoms during their peak season.
