Are you planning a family getaway to Washington, D.C.?
Finding the perfect place to stay can make all the difference in your travel experience. From exploring historic landmarks to enjoying family-friendly activities, Washington, D.C. offers a wealth of options for accommodations that cater to families.
In this article, I am excited to guide you through some of the best places to stay in DC. for families. Whether you are looking for proximity to museums, spacious accommodations, or vibrant neighborhoods, I have got you covered.
Where to stay in Washington, D.C. for first time visitors?
For first-time visitors to Washington, D.C., choosing the right place to stay can enhance your overall experience. Here are some recommended areas:
- Downtown / Penn Quarter: This area is central and close to many major attractions like the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, and the Capitol Building. It is bustling with restaurants, shops, and easy access to public transportation.
- Dupont Circle: Known for its vibrant nightlife, art galleries, and historic homes, Dupont Circle offers a mix of dining options and is within walking distance to attractions like the Phillips Collection and Embassy Row.
- Georgetown: Georgetown is charming with its cobblestone streets, historic houses, and waterfront dining along the Potomac River. It is a bit quieter than downtown but still close to major sites via bus or a scenic walk.
- Capitol Hill: If you prefer a more residential feel with easy access to the U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress, and Supreme Court, Capitol Hill offers historic charm, tree-lined streets, and plenty of dining options.
- The Wharf: The Wharf is a newer development with hotels, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues along the waterfront. It is close to attractions like the National Mall and museums with scenic views of the Potomac River.
Choosing a hotel or accommodation in one of these areas will ensure you are close to major sights, convenient transportation options, and have a variety of dining and entertainment choices to explore during your visit to Washington, D.C.
Kid-friendly hotels in Washington DC with pool
For kid-friendly hotels in Washington, D.C. with a pool, here are some recommendations:
- Washington Plaza Hotel: Located near Thomas Circle, this hotel offers a seasonal outdoor pool, which is great for families during warmer months. It is within walking distance to many attractions and has spacious rooms suitable for families.
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Georgetown: This hotel offers a rooftop indoor pool with views of the city skyline. It is in a convenient location for exploring Georgetown and is known for its family-friendly amenities like complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast and evening reception.
- Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall: Close to the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, this hotel features an indoor heated pool, making it ideal for families visiting the capital’s attractions. The spacious rooms and complimentary breakfast add to the convenience.
- Holiday Inn Washington-Capitol: Located near the National Mall and Capitol Hill, this hotel offers an indoor pool, which is perfect for families year-round. It is within walking distance to many museums and landmarks, making sightseeing easy for families with children.
- Marriott Marquis Washington, DC: Situated near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, this hotel boasts an indoor pool with a shallow children’s area. It is centrally located and offers spacious rooms suitable for families, along with easy access to metro stations.
These hotels combine family-friendly amenities like pools with convenient locations for exploring Washington, D.C.’s attractions, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for both kids and parents alike.
Downtown Washington D.C.
1. Holiday Inn Washington-Capitol (Places to Stay in DC)
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/A36G5utR8bbgu9Cn6
Holiday Inn Washington-Capitol. It is right by the National Mall super close to all the cool stuff like museums and monuments.
When we stayed there, we loved how easy it was to walk to the Smithsonian museums and the Capitol. The hotel is comfy, with spacious rooms and some offering great city views.
They have got great amenities, like a pool for the kids to enjoy after exploring.
2. Residence Inn Washington DC/Capitol
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/YWiJRucDBcSkicbHA
Residence Inn Washington DC/Capitol is a great spot for families.
They have got big suites with plenty of space, perfect for traveling with kids. They offer free breakfast, saving you money and the hassle of finding food in the morning.
The location is perfect, near the Capitol and close to museums on the National Mall.
3. Hyatt House at the Wharf in Southeast
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aN78AzCbtEhLvC7L8
Hyatt House at the Wharf with a cool waterfront vibe and nice views in D.C.
The rooms are like mini-apartments, so there is plenty of space to chill out after a day of exploring. They have got everything neat like a kitchenette and comfy beds.
The outdoor pool is perfect for kids to cool off on hot D.C. days.
Arlington, Virginia
4. Holiday Inn Arlington at Ballston (with an outdoor pool!)
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xHUkKTTvZKv77dJV9
Holiday Inn Arlington at Ballston is a top choice for families visiting Washington, D.C. It offers big, comfy rooms that can fit the whole family. There is a pool where kids can splash and play.
It’s close to the Metro station, so it’s easy to visit famous places like the National Zoo and the Smithsonian museums.
The staff is friendly and always ready to help. Plus, kids eat free, which is a big bonus for families!
Georgetown
5. Embassy Suites by Hilton Inn Georgetown
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aqHRNi33kauSuqV18
Embassy Suites by Hilton Inn in Georgetown.
The suites are spacious, perfect for traveling with kids. They also host evening receptions with snacks and drinks, a nice perk after exploring all day.
In Georgetown, you are close to shops, restaurants, and historic spots and it is a perfect blend of convenience and charm.
6. Georgetown Suites
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/mLu8rCtz3UBcGBvCA
Georgetown Suites is a fantastic hotel for families. The rooms are big and have kitchens, so you can cook your own meals. With lots of shops and restaurants it has a cool neighborhood.
There’s a free breakfast every morning, which is great for starting your day. The hotel is close to fun places like the Georgetown Waterfront Park and the C&O Canal. You can easily walk to these spots and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Capitol Hill
7. Capitol Hill Hotel
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/vpcmACxS6iDzz8EJ7
Capitol Hill Hotel is right by the Capitol and the Library of Congress.
The hotel has this boutique vibe and it has got that unique charm and personal touch. When we stayed there, it felt like home with comfy beds and a relaxed vibe.
The neighborhood is really nice, with plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby.
Downtown and Beyond
8. Hotel Monaco
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/doKEWG1T8ewN2Mtt5
Hotel Monaco has got cool vibe with varied decorations that make it stand out.
My family loved how fun and unique the rooms were. They are family-friendly with kid activities and even welcome pets!
The location is spot-on too, right in downtown D.C. near all the action.
Related Article: Best Things To Do Alone in DC
9. Omni Shoreham Hotel
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/BVqyDRdMfjjNMXvf8
Omni Shoreham Hotel is a peaceful spot in D.C.
It is near Rock Creek Park with beautiful gardens—great for a relaxing stroll or outdoor fun with the kids. The hotel itself is really comfy, with spacious rooms that are great for families. I loved most was the balance it struck between tranquility and convenience.
You are close to downtown, making it easy to visit museums and sights.
10. Willard InterContinental
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oZZpjwYZs6yYgfBe7
Willard InterContinental is all about luxury and history, which makes it a really special place to stay.
The rooms are elegant and comfy, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring. You are super close to major landmarks like the White House and the National Mall.
When I stayed there, I felt like I was part of D.C.’s history, with all the stories and grandeur around me.
Vibrant Neighborhoods
11. Chinatown/Mount Vernon Square
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/svBrP1ubU7XgdG3U6
Chinatown and Mount Vernon Square are awesome spots.
They have got a vibrant cultural mix and plenty of family-friendly eateries. We loved exploring the colorful streets and local shops.
You are near major attractions like the National Portrait Gallery and Verizon Center.
12. Logan Circle/Shaw
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/WoQLTRNzujgXGpqL9
Logan Circle and Shaw.
They have got this awesome vibe with trendy shops, delicious restaurants, and tons of cultural spots. We loved exploring—grabbing bites at local cafes and checking out unique shops.
You can easily get to all the major sights like the White House or the Smithsonian museums.
13. Dupont Circle/Adams Morgan
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Z2ztZMAPHsJPvQtJA
Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan.
These neighborhoods are famous for their nightlife and cool vibe and also have plenty of family-friendly places to stay. We enjoyed the lively atmosphere and the variety of restaurants and cafes nearby. It is a bit more bustling compared to other areas.
You are close to places like the National Zoo and the Phillips Collection, which are perfect for family outings.
14. Foggy Bottom/Georgetown
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iQUe7oHJrV9vEa1U7
Foggy Bottom and Georgetown.
In Foggy Bottom, you are near George Washington University and the Kennedy Center, giving you easy access to cultural events and performances. It is a bustling area perfect for families who want to be in the thick of things.
Georgetown offers that historic charm with its cobblestone streets and beautiful waterfront. We loved exploring the shops and cafes along M Street and taking in the views by the Potomac River.
15. Navy Yard/Waterfront
Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/HRbHa63ubGUTkBcHA
Navy Yard and the Waterfront area are fantastic spots to stay.
You will enjoy beautiful waterfront views and plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. We loved walking along the riverfront and checking out the cool restaurants and cafes nearby.
In Nationals Park catching a baseball game is super convenient. The area has a relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
Best luxury hotels in Washington DC for families
Washington, D.C. is a great city for families to visit, and there are many luxury hotels where you can stay. Here are some of the best ones:
- The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.
- This hotel is fancy and comfortable. It has big rooms and even offers special activities for kids. There’s a nice pool where you can swim and a delicious restaurant where you can eat.
- Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C.
- This hotel is in a great location and has everything you need. The rooms are large and perfect for families. They also have a kids’ program with fun activities like cookie-making. The hotel has a pool and a beautiful garden too.
- The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
- This hotel is very elegant and feels like a palace. The rooms are big and comfortable for families. They have a special service called “Family Traditions” with activities and treats for kids. There’s also a nice restaurant and a tea room for fancy snacks.
- Mandarin Oriental, Washington D.C.
- This hotel has amazing views of the city and the river. The rooms are very stylish and cozy. They offer special packages for families, including tickets to nearby attractions. There is also a big pool and a spa for parents to relax.
- The Willard Inter-Continental
- This historic hotel is close to many famous sites. The rooms are elegant and spacious. They have a special program called “Kids Rule!” with gifts and activities for children. The whole family can enjoy the fancy dining options and nearby museums.
These hotels make sure that both kids and parents have a fantastic stay in Washington, D.C.
Wrap Up!
Alright, that concludes our guide to the best places to stay in D.C. for families!
Choosing the right accommodation can enhance your family’s experience in Washington, D.C., whether you prefer the historic charm of Georgetown, the cultural diversity of Chinatown, or the peaceful surroundings of Capitol Hill.
By selecting a place that suits your family’s needs and interests, you will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay in this vibrant city.
