Where to stay in DC for touristy stuff?

[Lights_Guy3]

My wife and I want to go and see the things - monuments, National Mall, mint, memorials, etc.

Any recommendations on which neighborhoods to stay in? Which to avoid? Must visit attractions or places to eat? I would prefer easy access to public transit options.

This would be early Feb, the week leading up to President's Day weekend, and possibly including that weekend. Speaking off that weekend, is that a fun weekend to be in DC? Or it is just a shitshow of people and should be avoided?

PS - My fun in or around anything in DC is affected exactly zero by anyone's political opinions.

 

[berth]

Well, it's all "must see". American History museum, Air and Space museum, Archives, monuments. It's all amazing.

I love DC. Only been there a couple times, but I do love the city. Got to see the fireworks on the mall, sat near the Capitol, howitzers and everything.

The times I've been there, I have not had, nor really felt a need, for a car. Not saying you should not get one, but when in the city, I just walked and took the metro everywhere.

But here's something to consider.

One time I was there, during the 4th, I was staying in Rockville, MD, at the Hilton, which changed to a DoubleTree, and I don't know what it is now (it likely still exists, but it's been 10+ years).

The key point is that it's right next to a metro stop that takes you straight into DC. About a 1/2 hour ride. But it's right there, couple blocks. It's really easy.

That worked really well. I don't know what hotels and such are priced in DC near the mall, but I imagine Rockville is cheaper. When I stayed near the mall, the company was picking up the tab.

As a rule, I prefer flying into Reagan instead of Dulles. Dulles is in the wilds of Virginia, Reagan is right there. It's neat flying into the DC skyline. Baltimore is an option, but it is a bit out of the way (more than Dulles to be sure).

Bring good shoes, lots of walking.

The cherry blossoms are cool to see near the Jefferson Memorial.

Have fun!

 

[900ss]

The last time we were in DC we stayed a couple of nights in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood.

 

[ST Guy]

When I was in DC, many years ago, I stayed at a nice hotel in Georgetown.

Be prepared for snow and cold weather.

 

[stratslingr77]

Im a Hilton guy...they have a bunch of properties downtown and it's easy to get around on the Metro. I've stayed at the Capital Hilton in the past and my recollection is it was right in the thick of things, but it'sbeen a few years. And I second the earlier suggetion to fly into DCA if you can. Definitely catch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier if you can.

 

[MC BumSlap]

We stayed about 40mins north of DC.

Don't forget to take the US Naval Academy tour.