Hotel decision help please. :)

Question

Hi,

My partner and I are taking a last minute trip to DC in one week, and I am having trouble deciding on which hotel and area to choose. I went there when I was in 4th grade (40 years ago!), and he has never been before.

I am trying to decide between staying in the Downtown area or Foggy Bottom area. If staying in Foggy Bottom, I'm hoping to book somewhere close to a metro to get us to the National Mall. I've been looking at a lot of different hotels on TA, and I would like to get some input on if these are any good.

Thank you in advance,

Foggy Bottom Area:

-The River Inn

-Hotel Hive

Downtown Area:

Hampton Inn DC/White House

The Quincy

Hyatt Place DC/White House

Kimpton Benneker

Answer

Choosing between Downtown DC and Foggy Bottom largely depends on your priorities for convenience, atmosphere, and budget. Both areas are well-located and offer easy access to key sites, but they do have distinct differences in vibe and transportation options.

Foggy Bottom Area: This area is close to George Washington University and the Kennedy Center, offering a quieter, more residential feel than the busy Downtown. It has a few hotels that are metro-accessible, making it easy to reach the National Mall and other tourist spots.

The River Inn: A boutique-style hotel with classic charm, generally well-reviewed for its quiet atmosphere and service. Rooms may be smaller, and it tends to be pricier for the size, but good for a quieter stay.
Hotel Hive: A modern, budget-friendly option near GWU, with small but stylish rooms. It’s ideal if you want a younger, lively vibe and don’t mind compact accommodations. Very close to the Foggy Bottom metro station for easy National Mall access.

Downtown Area: Staying downtown puts you within walking distance of the White House, museums, and several dining options. It’s busier and more bustling, but convenient for first-time visitors who want easy access to the main sights without relying too heavily on the metro.

Hampton Inn DC/White House: Reliable mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms, breakfast included, and very convenient to the White House and several metro lines.
The Quincy: Small boutique hotel, modern and well-rated, located close to McPherson Square metro. Offers a quieter alternative to larger chains but fewer amenities.
Hyatt Place DC/White House: Larger hotel with spacious rooms and amenities such as breakfast and a fitness center. Centrally located, walkable to many sites.
Kimpton Banneker: Stylish boutique hotel with modern rooms, often praised for its service. Located near metro stops and within walking distance to key attractions, providing a balance of charm and convenience.

Summary Advice: If your priority is being in a quieter neighborhood with easy metro access, Foggy Bottom (especially Hotel Hive) is a solid choice. If you prefer to be right in the heart of DC, within walking distance to the White House and many museums, Downtown hotels like the Kimpton Banneker or Hyatt Place offer convenience and a central location. Either choice works well for a first-time visit, but Downtown will feel more “in the action,” while Foggy Bottom is slightly more relaxed and residential.

Hotel decision help please. :)

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