Hotel help

Question

Hi there,

Coming to DC next week and would love some advice on hotels. Family of 4 (2 adults and 2 middle school aged kids). Planning to see museums.

Considering:

- Arlo: Brand new. Is the area safe? Seems like it's quiet and not much around, but walking distance to Penn Quarter and museums.

- Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center: Was my first choice originally given our budget and free breakfast, but I read a review or two about cockroaches so I am having second thoughts. Is this a safer area?

- Capitol Hilton: Within our budget and closer to white house.

Answer

For a family of four visiting Washington, D.C., your hotel choices all have pros and cons, so it’s helpful to consider safety, convenience, and family-friendly amenities.

Arlo Hotel

Brand new and modern, which often means cleaner facilities and updated rooms.
The area is generally quiet, but it is more of a residential/commercial mix with fewer restaurants and shops immediately nearby.
Walking distance to Penn Quarter and some museums, but expect a 10–15 minute walk to major Smithsonian museums.
Safe overall, but like any city, nighttime walks in quieter areas should be done with caution.

Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center

Central location near the Convention Center, closer to Penn Quarter and Chinatown — convenient for museums, restaurants, and Metro access.
Area is considered safe, with plenty of foot traffic and nearby amenities.
Reviews about cockroaches can be concerning. These issues can vary by season and management; check recent reviews before booking.
Free breakfast is a family-friendly perk and can save time in the morning.

Capitol Hilton

Located near the White House, closer to the National Mall, which is ideal for museum visits and monument walks.
Generally safe area with lots of hotel guests and nearby attractions.
Rooms may be slightly larger than the budget options, which can be helpful for families with kids.
Somewhat higher in price but offers good amenities and central location.

Overall recommendations:

If your priority is modern facilities and a quieter area: Arlo is a solid choice.
If budget and free breakfast are important, but you’re okay monitoring reviews for cleanliness: Hampton Inn is convenient and centrally located.
If you want maximum proximity to monuments, the National Mall, and museums with less walking: Capitol Hilton offers the best location for sightseeing with kids.

Tip: All areas mentioned are relatively safe, but downtown D.C. is best navigated with some situational awareness, especially at night. Booking in advance and confirming room cleanliness can help ensure a smooth stay for your family.