Washington DC - Lodging

Washington D.C. is a wonderful place for all ages and for those with all kinds of interests. Although it is the political capital of the nation, and more filled with museums and government buildings, Washington D.C. is a great place for kids. Among the many great activities for kids and teens, there are great lodging options for kids and families as well. Washington D.C. is full of many great options, but there are a few that are the best of the best.

If you are looking for a hotel that will truly cater to the kids more than anyone else, check out the Four Seasons. Again, this hotel comes with a pretty big price tag, but if you can afford it the service that comes standard is definitely worth the price. One of the most impressive points of this hotel is that the staff-to-guest ratio is 2:1 (two to one). That means there is always someone on hand to get whatever you or any member of your family may need. This hotel was also recently redesigned for about $25 million. The staff offers many wonderful services to kids and families. First, all kids receive a gift when checking in. Kids can always rent a video game, board game, or Nintendo at the concierge desk. Families who check into a suite receive what is known as "The Works" including snacks, sodas, toys, balloons, books, games, and video games. Kids also get their own menu at the Seasons Restaurant. At the end of every day, kids receive milk and cookies with the evening turn-down. Another great thing about the hotel is their accommodations to babies.

For the most family-friendly hotel, the award goes to the J.W. Marriott. The hotel underwent $25 million renovation of all the rooms in 2006, including flat-screen TVs. The hotel is great because it is located right next to the Metro Center, which links all the trains into one station. Also, it is just one block away from shopping, entertainment, restaurants, and sights. Even if you don't want to leave the hotel, there is still so much to do inside the hotel. A food court including Five Guys and Quizno's, restaurants like The Avenue Grill, and plenty of other great options are right inside the hotel. The hotel caters to kids with a wonderful pool and club area, free stays for kids, and kids five and under eat free from the special kids' menus in the hotel restaurants. There are a few downsides to staying at the Marriott, including its impressively large price tag. However, for those looking for convenience and all the amenities possible, the price just may be worth it.

The first thing most kids look for at a hotel is, of course, the pool. And the award for Best Pool in D.C. goes to the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel. Not only is the pool equipped with resort-like amenities, they are also open year-round because in the winter a bubble covers the pool, keeping it nice and warm for all eager swimmers. Additionally, there is a lifeguard on duty daily from 9am to 8pm. Another great thing about this hotel is that it is only about a ten minute walk from the National Air and Space Museum, which is always a favorite among kids. Family board games, Nintendos, and kids menus are all available as well at this hotel.

Even though lodging can be expensive and pricey to stay in Washington D.C., it can be well worth it. The services of the hotels that I've listed here are only a few that rank in the top hotels in the D.C. Metro Area. But, the services they offer and how family-friendly they are make these hotels a great option for families looking for helpful services for the entire family.