Photo by Stephanie Zalamea via Trover.com
This post was written for the Hipmunk Best of List Project for which I was paid. All opinions are my own.
One of the cool things about visiting Washington, D.C., in addition to the fact that it is the capital of the United States, is it is a town of neighborhoods. In just about any area you can find a hotel with personality that is outside of the large hotel chains. Sometimes this can make all the difference in how much you enjoy your visit.
Boutique Chains
Beyond the square rooms, there are centrally located chains of boutique hotels that offer excellent alternatives. The Klimpton Hotels are one such example of an affordable chain of boutique Washington hotels that are centrally located. Right on Dupont Circle is the Topaz Hotel, a Klimpton Hotel, in a desirable neighborhood with fine dining, shopping, healthy food, quality coffee, and a social life after dark. According to Tailwind, you can expect complimentary yoga mats, free bikes on loan, and a hosted wine reception every day at the Topaz Hotel. If you are on a budget, this could be the absolute best hook up. There are two other Klimpton properties, Helix Hotel and Hotel George.
Independent Hotels
The W Washington DC Hotel is another hotel surrounded by restaurants and tourist attractions that is in the President of the United States’ neighborhood. In fact, it is just across the street from the White House. And in that regard, you might be right in considering this a touristy neighborhood. But if you are planning to enjoy the town like a tourist, you’ll want to stay in an excellent neighborhood. The W Washington DC Hotel is a 4-star property with a superlative address.
Romantic Hotels
It is always good to know the name of a romantic hotel. You can find St. Gregory Luxury Hotel and Suites within walking distance of the Foggy Bottom and Farragut North Metro stops. This is a 4-star service apartment with separate living areas and stocked pantry kitchens. The homey feel make this perfect for a romantic getaway.
Wedding Destination Hotels
Follow Highway 50 east of downtown Washington, D.C. to reach The Westin Annapolis Hotel in historic downtown Annapolis. This hotel has an indoor heated lap pool, on premise restaurant if you choose not to leave the hote, and the refresh and renew Varuna Spa by Aveda. Because you are within two miles of the waterfront, you will smell the Annapolis waters of the Eastern Shore and you will see the world-famous United States Naval Academy.
Budget Hotels in Alexandria
Sometimes it is just not possible to stay in downtown Washington. When this is the case, a cheap hotel in Alexandria, Virginia is a good first choice. This is a walking town, so don’t feel obligated to rent a car. You can rent a bike and make your way very easily. Parts of Alexandria are newly gentrified. So expect above average choices of coffee, young chefs, and good meals in restaurants. Many have moved to Alexandria because of its proximity to downtown District of Columbia, and it offers city living in a suburban environment.
You can build on this list. It seeks to offer a clearer understanding of the vast variety of lodging availabe to you in Washington, D.C.
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