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Driving and parking in DC

We will be in Fort Belvoir for a week and plan to spend several days in DC. How difficult is it to get in and out of the city outside of commuter hours? Is parking difficult and expensive? Or is it easier to drive t o the metro station and go in that way?

Driving into Washington DC from Fort Belvoir outside of peak commuter hours is generally manageable, though traffic can still be unpredictable depending on events or road work. Weekdays before 7:00 AM or after 7:00 PM are usually smoother, while mid-morning and mid-afternoon can see moderate congestion.

Parking in downtown DC can be challenging and expensive. Metered street parking is limited and typically costs $2–$4 per hour, often with a 2-hour limit. Most visitors rely on parking garages, which can range from $25–$50 for a day depending on the location.

Given the size of your group and the fact that you'll be in the city for sightseeing rather than commuting to work, using Metro can be more convenient and stress-free. Fort Belvoir has easy access to Metro stations via car or rideshare, allowing you to park outside the city and avoid inner-city traffic.

  • Drive directly into DC: Convenient if you want flexibility, but prepare for higher parking costs and the need to navigate downtown streets.
  • Park-and-ride: Drive to a Metro station near Fort Belvoir, park for the day, and take the Metro into DC. This avoids inner-city traffic and expensive parking.
  • Combination: Use Metro for heavy sightseeing days and drive for any destinations not well-served by Metro.

Additional tips:

  • Check for events like sports games, parades, or festivals that may affect traffic and parking downtown.
  • Use apps like ParkWhiz or SpotHero to reserve garage parking in advance and save time.
  • If you plan to visit multiple monuments and museums, consider staying close to a Metro line for convenience.

Overall, for ease and cost-efficiency, driving to a Metro station and taking public transit into DC is often the smarter choice, especially for several days of sightseeing.

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