Live Your Best Lives
  1. Travel FAQs
  2. United States
  3. District of Columbia (DC)
  4. Washington DC

Parking downtown DC

We are staying at the Westin in downtown Washington DC. We will have a car and parking is around $60/day. Is there a place nearby we can park our car for less and have access to it during the day?

Parking in downtown Washington DC can be expensive, with hotel garages like the Westin charging around $60 per day. However, there are several strategies and nearby options to reduce costs while still having access to your car during the day.

Here are some alternatives to expensive hotel parking:

  • Public Parking Garages: There are multiple public garages within walking distance of the Westin where daily rates are often lower than hotel rates. Examples include Colonial Parking, PMI Parking, and SP+ garages. Daily rates can range from $25–$45 depending on location and demand.
  • Street Parking: Metered street parking is available in some areas, though it is limited and time-restricted. Rates are generally around $2–$4 per hour. Be sure to check signs for restrictions, residential permit requirements, and maximum stay times.
  • Park-and-Ride Options: Consider parking in a Metro-accessible area outside of downtown, such as at the Waterfront Metro station, L’Enfant Plaza, or in Arlington near the Pentagon Metro. Daily parking can be $5–$15, and you can take the Metro directly into downtown, leaving your car secure for the day.
  • Private Parking Apps: Apps like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, or BestParking allow you to reserve discounted parking in private garages near your hotel. You can often find rates $10–$25 cheaper per day than hotel rates, and some allow in-and-out access.

Tips for parking downtown:

  • Reserve in advance via apps for the best rates, especially on weekdays or during events.
  • Consider garages a 5–10 minute walk from the hotel to save money while still being convenient.
  • Check whether the garage provides 24-hour access if you plan to return to your car multiple times a day.

By using a nearby public garage, park-and-ride, or a reservation app, you can significantly reduce parking costs compared to the hotel rate while keeping your car accessible throughout the day. Planning in advance is key to ensuring availability and savings.

More Washington DC Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Washington
Street

Popular Destinations

Wuyuanwan Wengu District
Famen Temple
Chunqiu Tower Cultural Relics Scenic Area
Drum Tower

Popular Travel Questions