Where to stay visiting DC when using IAD

Question

What neighborhood or town should we search for lodging that will be on a metro line to the airport? We haven't found hotel listings that say 'close to Metro station'. We will use public transportation the entire visit. We will need 2 rooms (two 70sF, one or two 18M). Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Answer

When visiting Washington DC and flying into IAD (Dulles International Airport), your best strategy is to stay somewhere on or very close to the Silver Line Metro, which connects to the Wiehle-Reston East station and provides service to the downtown DC area via transfer at the Metro. Since IAD is not directly on the Metro, you will either take the Silver Line Express Bus from the airport to Wiehle-Reston East or use a ride-share/taxi to get to a Metro station on the Silver Line.

For convenience, it’s best to stay in neighborhoods that are directly served by the Metro and offer quick access to attractions. Here are recommended areas:

Tysons Corner / McLean / Reston – Close to the Silver Line stations like Tysons Corner, Spring Hill, and Wiehle-Reston East. Many hotels in these areas cater to travelers and are convenient for getting onto the Metro for the rest of your trip.
Downtown DC / Foggy Bottom / Dupont Circle – These neighborhoods are centrally located and convenient for sightseeing. Foggy Bottom has the Farragut West and Foggy Bottom stations on the Metro, which will allow you to reach most attractions without a car. These areas are lively, safe, and offer a wide range of hotels and dining options.
Crystal City / Pentagon City (Arlington, VA) – Excellent choice if you want fast access to the Metro and a variety of hotels. Both have stations on the Blue and Yellow Lines, which connect easily to downtown DC. Pentagon City also has convenient shopping and dining options.

Additional considerations for your stay:

Check that the hotel is within a short walk to a Metro station. Google Maps can help confirm walking distance.
Consider proximity to grocery stores or casual dining if you have a larger party and may want some meals outside restaurants.
Make sure the hotel can provide two rooms with the configuration you need (two adults and one or two teens).

Overall, if you plan to rely exclusively on public transportation, staying in Crystal City, Pentagon City, or near a central Metro stop like Foggy Bottom or Dupont Circle provides the best balance of convenience, Metro access, and proximity to major DC attractions. For travel to IAD, budget a bit of extra time for the Silver Line Express Bus or a ride-share from your hotel to the airport.

Where to stay visiting DC when using IAD

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