DC/Nationals Game

Question

Hello,

We are coming into DC from NYC for a weekend in July.

We plan on going to a Nationals game.

What would be a good location to stay in as far as a hotel is concerned that is not all that far from the Nationals ballpark and is in good location as far as nightlife/restaurants/etc.

We will be taking the Amtrak train in from NYC.

Thanks

Answer

For a weekend in DC with plans to attend a Nationals game and enjoy nightlife and dining, your best bet is to stay close to the Navy Yard or Capitol Riverfront area. This location puts you within easy walking distance of Nationals Park and offers a growing number of restaurants, bars, and entertainment options.

Location considerations:

Navy Yard / Capitol Riverfront: This is the most convenient location for a Nationals game. You can walk to the stadium in about 5-10 minutes, and there are plenty of new restaurants, breweries, and bars in the area for pre- or post-game activities.
Capitol Hill / Eastern Market: About a 15-20 minute walk or a short metro ride to Nationals Park. This area has a historic charm, a farmer’s market, and many cafes and eateries. It’s slightly quieter in terms of nightlife compared to Navy Yard but still has evening options.
Near Metro stations on Green Line: Staying near metro stops like L’Enfant Plaza or Waterfront provides easy access to both the game and other parts of DC, especially if you want to explore more than just the immediate area.

Hotel options to consider:

Hotels within Navy Yard/Capitol Riverfront: modern, convenient, and close to nightlife. Examples include the Hyatt House Washington DC / The Wharf or Canopy by Hilton.
Hotels near Capitol Hill/Eastern Market: boutique hotels or well-rated chains like the Kimpton George or Capitol Hill Hotel offer historic charm and easy metro access.
If you don’t mind a slightly longer walk or a short metro ride, Downtown / Penn Quarter hotels provide more dining and nightlife options and easy access from Union Station if you’re arriving via Amtrak.

Tips:

Book early, as July weekends can be busy due to baseball games and summer tourism.
Walking is usually easiest for Nationals Park, as parking can be limited and traffic heavy on game days.
If you prefer public transit, ensure your hotel is within a short walk of a Green Line or Metro station to make sightseeing easier without a car.

Overall, for convenience to the ballpark combined with good dining and nightlife, the Navy Yard/Capitol Riverfront area is highly recommended. Staying there allows you to enjoy both the game and a lively evening without long commutes.

DC/Nationals Game

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