Nestled between Maryland and Virginia on the scenic Potomac River, Washington, D.C. squeezes an amazing list of attractions into 60 square miles. It is a stately hub of government, history, business, education and entertainment, and visitors from around the world dive into the unique citywide culture. Regardless of your reason for visiting Washington, D.C., a memorable experience surely awaits. Let IHG help you find the ultimate Washington, D.C. hotel for your stay in the nation’s capital.
Things to See
The White House tops many D.C. visitors’ must-see lists. A great way to plan your visit in advance is to reserve tickets through a member of Congress. Taking a stroll along the National Mall, a swath of land rife with famous monuments, museums and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, is a high-priority for visiting history buffs. Also on the Mall are the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum and the Smithsonian Castle.
Spend a day exploring fascinating exhibits at the National Museum of Natural History, including the immaculate Hope Diamond and the equally larger-than-life, taxidermied elephant in the museum’s rotunda. You’ll also find golden opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hillwood Gardens and the Franciscan Monastery Gardens are both home to thousands of lovely plants.
The National Arboretum, which you can walk, bike or jog through, is another highlight. You might also stop by the National Zoological Park and meet its most famous residents, panda couple Mei Xiang and Tian Tian. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, sample the cuisine scene at restaurants like Ayse, Bangkok Golden, Barlett Pear Inn, and Old Ebbitt Grill.
Hotels in Washington, D.C.
The D.C. area is home to a variety of hotels offering historic luxury, convenience and budget-friendly pricing. When looking at our listings, consider not only price and location but also things like pet policies, and whether the hotel has unique characteristics that add extra value to your vacation. For example, history lovers may be drawn to the 1920s-era facades of hotels near the White House, while design hounds might prefer the sleek boutique hotels of the West End.
Where to Stay
Capitol Hill, which is close to the National Mall and other attractions, is a good place to stay if you have government business in Washington, or just want to find yourself in the thick of the city action. Penn Quarter is full of restaurants, businesses and a thriving nightlife, with close proximity to the Verizon Center. Dupont Circle is for those seeking a calmer neighborhood atmosphere. If you intend to stay outside of D.C. proper, look at accommodations in nearby Alexandria, Virginia; it has a lovely Old Town and is accessible via the Metro.
How to Get to Washington, D.C.
The D.C. area has three airports: Reagan National Airport, Dulles International Airport and Baltimore-Washington International Airport, with Reagan being the closest to downtown. Before booking your flight, compare rates between the three airports and look at available ground transportation options. Hailing a taxi, finding a shuttle or taking a bus from both Reagan National and Dulles International are easy, and there is a train station near Baltimore-Washington International.
Skip the Politics, Discover the Culture of Washington, D.C.
Government buildings are great, but D.C. has much more for you to explore.
See What’s Just Outside the District of Columbia
Adventure awaits just beyond the city limits.
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