Where to Stay in Washington DC (Why I Prefer Arlington, VA)
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Washington DC, here’s what I recommend.
I usually stay in Arlington, Virginia instead of in DC. It’s right across the river, hotels are typically more affordable, and the metro makes it incredibly easy to get into the city. You still have quick access to all the monuments and museums, but you’re usually paying less.
However, I know many people prefer to stay in DC to be closer to the main sights, so I’ll include both options to help you decide what works best for your trip.
I’ve been to DC more than 10 times over the years with my family and my husband. Every time, I prioritize the same things: easy metro access, good prices, and walking distance to restaurants and coffee shops (of course 🤩).
Here’s how I would break down the best areas to stay in Washington DC and nearby Arlington.
Quick Comparison: Arlington vs Washington DC
If you want the short version, here it is:
| Arlington, VA | Washington DC |
| More affordable hotels My recommendations ⬇️ Hyatt Place Arlington/Courthouse Plaza Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Ballston | Higher hotel prices My recommendations ⬇️ Hotel Washington Hotel Hive Capitol Hill Hotel |
| Easy metro access into DC | Walkable to monuments (depending on area) |
| Younger vibe in areas like Ballston | More historic, classic DC feel |
| Great restaurants + coffee shops | Closer to museums and landmarks |
| Feels quieter at night | Busier, especially in peak season |
| 5–15 minutes into DC by metro | No commute if staying central |
If you’re comfortable using the metro, Arlington usually gives you more value for your money. If you want to walk outside your hotel and immediately be near monuments and museums, staying in DC might make more sense for you.
Where to Stay in Arlington, VA (My Personal Recommendation)
If it were me, I would stay in Arlington over DC almost every time.
It’s safe, walkable, has a younger vibe in certain areas, and still gives you easy metro access into the city. As long as you stay near a metro stop, getting into DC is easy and relatively quick.
Here are my favorite areas to stay in Arlington!
Courthouse (Easy Metro Access + Great Location)
Courthouse is one of my favorite areas to stay in Arlington.
It’s just a few metro stops away from DC, very walkable, and has plenty of food options nearby.
On my most recent trip, we stayed at Hyatt Place Arlington/Courthouse Plaza, and I would definitely stay there again. The room was spacious and clean, the bed was comfortable, and the location was perfect. We paid $378 total for two nights in mid-September, which felt very reasonable compared to DC hotel prices.
Other great hotels in Courthouse:
- Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Courthouse – Ideal for longer stays, especially if you want a kitchenette.
- Hilton Garden Inn Arlington/Courthouse Plaza – Great for quick metro access.
Ballston (Lively With Great Food Options)
Ballston has a lively, slightly younger feel. There are tons of restaurants, shopping, and coffee shops within walking distance.
It still has easy metro access, which is non-negotiable when visiting DC.
Recommended hotel in Ballston:
- Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Ballston – Comfortable and great for families or longer stays.
➡️Check out my 3‑Day Washington DC Itinerary for a full day-by-day guide of all my favorite sights and eats!
Where to Stay in Washington DC (Closer to Attractions, But Pricier)
If you prefer to stay in DC itself, there are definitely great neighborhoods. Just expect to pay more, especially during spring and fall.
Here are the best areas to stay in Washington DC!
Downtown DC (Best for First-Time Visitors)
If this is your first trip and you want to be close to the National Mall, museums, and monuments, Downtown DC is the best place to stay.
Hotel options in Downtown DC:
- Hotel Washington – Classic, centrally located, and within walking distance of the Mall.
- The Westin DC Downtown – Modern and in a great location for sightseeing.
- Grand Hyatt Washington – Large hotel with easy metro access.
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco DC – Stylish boutique hotel in a central location.
- JW Marriott Washington DC – Luxury option in a prime location.
Dupont Circle (Walkable and Trendy)
Dupont Circle is one of the most popular neighborhoods for visitors. It’s very walkable and has plenty of restaurants and shops.
It feels more neighborhood-focused than the downtown area and has more character.
Hotel options in Dupont Circle:
- The Dupont Circle Hotel – Classic and centrally located.
- The Darcy Hotel – Stylish and modern
- The Embassy Row Hotel – Elegant and within walking distance of shops and cafes.
Foggy Bottom (Central and Convenient)
Foggy Bottom is close to the National Mall and Georgetown. I love walking around Georgetown with its charming streets, historic homes, and cute shops. It’s one of my favorite spots in DC.
It’s still very central and easy to get around.
Hotel options in Foggy Bottom:
- Hotel Hive – Smaller rooms with a boutique feel.
- The Watergate Hotel – Iconic and offers a more luxurious stay.
- Fairmont Washington DC – Classic luxury and a central location.
➡️For a shorter visit, my 1‑Day Washington DC Itinerary breaks down how I’d spend a full day exploring the city.
Capitol Hill (Historic and Quieter)
If you want to stay near the Capitol Building and Supreme Court, Capitol Hill is a solid choice.
Hotel options in Capitol Hill:
- Capitol Hill Hotel – Practical and convenient choice.
- Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill – Modern and in a good location
- Hampton Inn Washington, D.C./White House – Budget-friendly and close to both Capitol Hill and downtown sights.
Pros and Cons: Arlington vs DC
Here’s my honest take on staying in Arlington vs DC.
Staying in Arlington, VA
Pros:
- Hotels are generally more affordable
- Easy metro access into DC
- Walkable neighborhoods with restaurants and coffee shops
- Safe and relaxed atmosphere
- Younger, lively vibe in areas like Ballston
Cons:
- Requires taking the metro into DC each day
- Not within walking distance of monuments
- Lacks the classic DC atmosphere
Staying in Washington DC
Pros:
- Close to major attractions and landmarks
- Walkable to monuments and museums depending on location
- Historic and iconic atmosphere
- Convenient for short trips
Cons:
- Hotels are more expensive
- Some areas feel more business-focused than lively
- Busier, especially during peak travel seasons
Best Area for First-Time Visitors to Washington DC
If it’s your first time in DC and you want the classic experience, I’d recommend staying in Downtown DC near the National Mall.
From here, you can walk to the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian museums, making it easy to see the main sights without relying on public transit.
That said, Arlington is also a strong option for first-timers if you don’t mind a short metro ride. The metro is simple to use, you’ll save money on hotels, and you’ll stay in neighborhoods that feel more relaxed.
If it were my very first visit and I wanted to wake up in the middle of everything, I’d choose Downtown DC. But for almost any other trip, I’d personally stay in Arlington.
FAQs About Where to Stay in Washington DC
Is it Better to Stay in DC or Arlington?
- Stay in DC if you want to walk to monuments and museums.
- Choose Arlington if you want more affordable hotels and easy metro access.
Is Arlington a Good Place to Stay When Visiting DC?
Yes. It’s safe, walkable, and has excellent metro access into the city. It’s often cheaper than staying in DC itself.
What is the Most Walkable Area to Stay in DC?
Downtown DC and Dupont Circle are both very walkable and close to the major sights.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Washington DC
Personally, I would choose to stay in Arlington over DC.
You’ll save money and still have easy metro access. Ballston and Courthouse are my top pick since they’re walkable, full of good restaurants, and convenient for transportation.
If you want to be steps from the monuments and don’t mind higher prices, staying in DC can absolutely be worth it.
But for a practical and affordable option, staying in Arlington is hard to beat.
Be sure to check out my other Washington DC blog posts!
