Stay Close to the Action at these 15 Top Family Hotels in Washington DC

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The Washington Monument in front of a reflecting pool at dusk.
Washington DC has many hotels that will please the entire family. Photo credit: Kimberly Miles

The US capital is filled with history, culture, museums and monuments. Seeing it all requires making every minute count. The last thing you want is to spend half of the day commuting back and forth from your hotel to the landmarks you want to see. Location matters! That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the best family hotels in Washington DC, so every moment of your trip is well spent.

I grew up less than 20 minutes from the nation’s capital. It felt kinda awesome to know that while other people had to fly across the country to see the White House, the National Mall, the Washington Monument (or the “pencil building” as I used to call it) or the city’s famous cherry blossoms, it was all right in my backyard.

Because of that, I know one thing for sure: Whether you plan to enjoy the city’s parks and neighborhoods, photograph iconic monuments or spend time at one of the Smithsonian’s many museums, the closer you are to all the action, the better.

This is our list of the 15 best family hotels in Washington, DC that will put you right in the middle of it all.

A close up of cherry blossoms over a body of water with a monument in the distance.
The Jefferson Memorial is just a couple of miles from the Washington Marriott and a great way to spend the afternoon. Photo credit: Yvonne Jaskinski

1. Washington Marriott at Metro Center

775 12th St NW
Washington DC 20005
(202) 737-2200

Conveniently located next to several of Washington DC’s biggest attractions, the Washington Marriott at Metro Center is one of the best family hotels for families who are ready to explore. 

The hotel is an 11-minute walk from the White House and within a couple of miles of popular family attractions such as the National Air and Space Museum and the National Zoo. I have fond memories of the Tidal Basin Pedal Boats, which is just a couple of miles away. It’s a wonderful way to spend a sunny afternoon with the family under the Jefferson Memorial. The National Children’s Museum is a short drive away and well worth a visit.

Back at the hotel is a heated indoor pool for you and the little ones to splash around no matter what the season. There’s also a 24/7 fitness center to work off all of the delicious eats within walking distance of the hotel as well as a business center for when you absolutely have to get some work done.

Here’s why the Washington Marriott at Metro Center is great for families:

  • Swimming pool and fitness center
  • Convenient to children’s attractions such as the National Zoo and Children’s Museum
  • Casual family-friendly restaurant and Starbucks Coffee on the premises
  • Free continental breakfast for club room members and guests staying in one-bedroom suites
Two adults and a dog in front of a memorial near the Embassy Suites Georgetown, one of the best family hotels in Washington DC.
The Lincoln Memorial is one of the must-visit sites located near the Embassy Suites hotel. Photo credit: Judy Antell

2. Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Georgetown

1250 22nd St NW,
Washington DC 20037
(202) 857-3388

If you prefer the “suite life” when traveling with the family, the Embassy Suites Georgetown is one of the best family hotels in Washington DC to consider. This all-suite Washington DC hotel features a beautiful seven-story atrium and is located right in the heart of all the major monuments and attractions.

Located within four blocks of two different Metro stations, you won’t need a car (or have to worry about finding parking in the congested DC area!) when you stay at this hotel. Hopping around to different attractions such as the Lincoln Memorial, White House and Smithsonian Museum of Natural History is easy; they’re all less than three miles away.

At the end of a busy day exploring the city, the kids can play in the game room while the adults wind down at the complimentary evening reception. Or, head to the indoor pool or 24/7 fitness center to work up a sweat before heading back to your comfy, spacious room for the night.

Here’s why Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Georgetown is great for families:

  • Located within four blocks of the Foggy Bottom and Dupont Circle Metro stations
  • Suites with separate living rooms, microwaves, Keurig coffee makers and mini-refrigerators
  • Complimentary made-to-order breakfast
  • Indoor pool and game room
Sit for a bit by the first at the Wharf in DC.
The Wharf in DC. Photo credit: Kim Orlando

725 Wharf St. SW
Washington, D.C., 20024
(202) 554-1234

Located in the bustling Wharf neighborhood, the Hyatt House Washington DC is one of the best family hotels in Washington DC for its proximity to the National Mall (just one mile away) and White House (just two miles away). The hotel is also convenient to historic must-sees such as the Capitol Building, the Lincoln Memorial, the Smithsonian and the International Spy Museum.

The Wharf, which in my younger years was little more than a smelly place to buy fresh fish, has transformed into a trendy neighborhood with incredible views of the Potomac River. I could easily spend hours walking around with my 8-year-old enjoying the views or visiting the many restaurants and shops.

Back in your room, enjoy floor-to-ceiling waterfront views while taking advantage of the free wifi or watching a movie on your flat-screen TV. Or, head up to the seasonal heated rooftop pool for a swim while taking in all of your surroundings.

Here’s why the Hyatt House Washington DC is great for families:

  • Heated rooftop pool with views of the Potomac River
  • Rooms with mini-fridges and kitchenettes available
  • Complimentary breakfast buffet
  • Laundry and dry cleaning services available
A small child looking at several elephants at the National Zoo near the Omni Shoreham Hotel, one of the best family hotels in Washington DC.
The Smithsonian National Zoo is just four blocks from the Omni Shoreham Hotel. Photo credit: Kimberly Miles

4. Omni Shoreham Hotel

2500 Calvert St NW
Washington, DC 20008
(202) 234-0700

If you have animal lovers in your family, the Omni Shoreham Hotel needs to be your DC hotel of choice. Just four blocks from the National Zoo, making a trip from this 1930s-era hotel is quick and easy.

Pro Tip: I recommend getting to the zoo early before it gets too busy and crowded at the displays. That way, you can be in and out before little ones get cranky and still have time to explore other nearby attractions!

Whether you’re into art, history, music or culture, there’s something nearby for the family to enjoy. The National Cathedral and White House are both less than two miles away. Also less than two miles from the hotel are the National Geographic Museum and International Spy Museum, a great visit for school-age children, teens and tweens. The Smithsonian Museums, including Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Museum of African American History and Culture are located nearby and open daily. If you can, catch a musical at the National Theatre, less than three miles away!

The hotel itself is situated on 11 acres of beautiful, lush gardens and manicured lawns, providing you with a taste of luxury and relaxation as soon as you walk in the door. The seasonal heated outdoor pool has a lounge area for food and cocktails. There are also two restaurants, two bars, a 24-hour fitness center and full service spa on site.

Here’s why Omni Shoreham Hotel is great for families:

  • A short walk from the National Zoo
  • Upgraded suites with kitchens and balconies available
  • Seasonal outdoor pool with a poolside bar for the adults
Several people walking in front of the U.S. Capitol building.
The U.S. Capitol Building is one of the popular attractions when staying at the Residence Inn by Marriott Washington DC. Photo credit: Pexels.com/Joshua Santos

5. Residence Inn by Marriott Washington DC – Capitol

333 E St SW,
Washington DC 20024
(202) 484-8280

The Residence Inn by Marriott Washington is one of the best family hotels in Washington DC (or anywhere!) especially if you plan on spending extended time in the nation’s capital. The hotel offers multi-bedroom suites with full kitchens, separate living room areas and flat screen TVs with premium channels. If you’re lucky, you’ll snag a room with views of the U.S. Capitol!

Just a four-minute walk from the Federal Center Metro Center Station, it’s easy to get around to the city’s biggest tourist attractions. The White House is less than two miles away. Also convenient to the hotel are the U.S. Capitol Building, the National Mall and the Smithsonian Museums.

When it’s time to head back to the hotel for the day, you’ll have access to amenities such as an indoor pool, fitness center and 24-hour fitness center. Surf the web or stream all the movies you’d like with free wifi. Don’t feel like eating out? No worries, grocery delivery is available as well as a 24-hour market.

Here’s why Residence Inn by Marriott Washington, DC – Capitol is great for families:

  • Grocery delivery service and 24/7 market
  • Free grab-and-go breakfast
  • Multi-bedroom guest suites with separate living rooms and fully-equipped kitchens
  • One block from the Metro station and other major attractions
  • Coin-operated laundry on-site
A street lined with brick buildings near the Four Seasons Hotel, one of the best family hotels in Washington DC.
The Four Seasons Hotel puts you in the heart of Georgetown, one of DC’s most popular neighborhoods. Photo credit: Pixabay/Robzo

6. Four Seasons Hotel Washington DC

2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Washington DC 20007
(202) 342-0444

Right in the heart of the charming Georgetown area sits the upscale and luxurious Four Seasons Hotel. Conveniently located just steps away from historic monuments and world-leading institutions, you won’t have to go far to experience the best of the nation’s capitol when you stay at this hotel.

The Four Seasons Hotel Washington DC knows how to do it right when it comes to family travel. From special kid’s amenities such as kid-sized bathrobes and slippers to a special kid’s concierge to plan activities fit just for their age and size, your little one will definitely feel like a rockstar here. Forgot an important baby item at home? No worries, the hotel has you covered with baby wipes and diapers, strollers, high chairs, baby monitors and bottle warmers to make sure your stay is a comfortable one. It’s no surprise that it is ranked among the best family hotels in Washington DC.

But that’s not all. The hotel also offers a fitness center, spa and an indoor pool with a sauna and hot tub. After working up an appetite from exploring the city, choose from a modern steakhouse with a cocktail lounge or the more contemporary on-site restaurant serving up regional dishes.

Back in your room, relax with a beverage from your minibar while watching a movie on your flat-screen TV or enjoying the scenery from your furnished terrace.

Here’s why Four Seasons Hotel Washington DC is great for families:

  • Complimentary family amenities such as strollers, high chairs, kids bath amenities and toiletries, kids’ menus, board games and specialized family sightseeing guides
  • Kids’ concierge to arrange age-appropriate activities and excursions
  • Babysitting services available
  • Multi-bedroom suites with 24-hour in-room dining
  • Heated indoor pool with pool toys
  • Glow-in-the-dark sleeping tents in rooms and a kids’ library
  • Complimentary meals for kids age 5 and under at the Seasons Restaurant
Alt Text: A auditorium with several chairs and large baseball murals on the wall.
The Museum of African American History and Culture is just a 15-minute walk away from the JW Marriott. Photo credit: Judy Antell

7. JW Marriott Washington DC

1331 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Washington DC 20004
(202) 393-2000

Located right across the street from Freedom Plaza, the JW Marriott Washington is an upscale hotel set right on Pennsylvania Avenue. It’s less than a 10 minute walk from the White House, so if making a visit is on the top of your list, this hotel would be a great choice for you!

The little ones in your family won’t get bored with several kid-friendly attractions and activities just minutes away including the Museum of African American History and Culture, National Museum of Natural History, the National Air & Space Museum and the National Zoo. Just a six minute walk will take you to the nearest Metro station where you can visit even more historic sites and museums in the District.

Back at the hotel you’ll find a Starbucks cafe, delicious restaurants, a 24-hour fitness center and an outdoor courtyard. In your room you’ll get your own mini-fridge, helpful for keeping your drinks and snacks cool. An upgraded room will get you access to a lounge with free breakfast, snacks and drinks.

Here’s why the JW Marriott Washington DC is great for families:

  • Conveniently located just minutes from several kid-friendly museums and activities
  • Enclosed outdoor courtyard with games for children and adults to enjoy
  • Convenience store on site
Guests at a hotel check-in desk at the Willard Intercontinental, one of the best family hotels in Washington DC
The lobby at the Willard Intercontinental Washington D.C. Photo credit: Yvonne Jasinski

8. Willard Intercontinental Washington

1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW,
Washington D.C. 20004 
(202) 628-9100

If you’re looking for a family hotel in Washington DC that is a good base for visiting the major tourist attractions in the city, the Willard Intercontinental Washington would make an excellent choice.

Centrally located, the hotel is just two blocks from the White House and close to other major DC attractions. The National Mall, where you’ll find world class museums and national landmarks, is just a 15-minute walk. The National Mall is also a popular place for picnics and festivals, especially the annual Cherry Blossom Festival in March and April.

At the end of the day, adults can indulge in a handcrafted cocktail at the iconic Round Robin Bar or get a relaxing massage at the Willard Spa. The only downside about the hotel is that while it is great for visiting Washington’s attractions, there are no pools or outside areas for children to play.

Here’s why the Willard Intercontinental Washington is great for families:

  • Convenient location just two blocks from the White House and the best parts of the district
  • Spacious rooms and suites with shower/tub combos available
  • Same day dry cleaning and laundry valet available

9. Holiday Inn Washington DC – Capitol

550 C St. SW
Washington DC 20024
(202) 479-4000

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly family hotel in Washington DC that puts you within walking distance of all the family-friendly sites and attractions, the Holiday Inn Washington DC is where you need to be. Just three minutes from the Metro and less than 10 minutes from the National Mall, you may not ever need to step foot in a car or taxi while staying here!

The Holiday Inn is just steps away from all the places kids want to see, including the National Air and Space Museum, International Spy Museum and the National Museum of Natural History. It is also near the Museum of African-American History and Culture, the Museum of the Bible and historical sites such as the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, World War II Memorial and MLK Jr. Memorial.

Back at the hotel, relax at the rooftop pool with a sundeck or work up a sweat at the fitness center. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, choose from two restaurants, one of which is a bar and grill playing big-screen sports and live jazz. Or, head to Starbucks for your favorite cup of coffee.

Here’s why Holiday Inn Washington DC – Capitol is great for families:

  • Up to two kids under age 18 eat and stay free with up to two adults
  • Guest rooms with mini-fridges and microwaves available
  • Seasonal rooftop pool 
Colorful buildings on a street.
The Fairmont Washington DC is less than a mile from the colorful shops of Georgetown. Photo credit: Pixabay/MonicaVolpin

10. Fairmont Washington DC, Georgetown

2401 M St NW
Washington DC 20037
(202) 429-2400

Named the “Best Hotel for a Staycation” by Modern Luxury DC Magazine in 2022, the Fairmont Washington DC has a convenient location in the Dupont Circle/West End area, less than a mile from historic Georgetown. The Fairmont is also one of the best family hotels in Washington DC for travelers bringing along their furry family members. In addition to the pet-friendly rooms, weekly events serve up “Puptails” and special menu items for dogs.

Rooms at the Fairmont include free wifi, flat screen TVs and beautiful views of either the city or the hotel courtyard. There’s also a restaurant on site as well as a fitness center, business center and indoor salt water pool to splash around no matter what the season. The Courtyard Bar serves up cocktails and yummy bites for adults who want to indulge after a day of exploring the city.

One of the unique things about this hotel is its Bee Sustainable Program, a program that focuses on saving honeybees and wild mason bees with pollinator bee “hotels” on its rooftop. Some Fairmont properties even keep on-site herb and vegetable gardens to contribute to the health of the pollinators.

Here’s why Fairmont Washington DC, Georgetown is great for families:

  • Daily in-room dining service
  • Dog-friendly hotel, for when you’re traveling with your furry family member
  • Complimentary breakfast, canapas and before-bed desserts for guests staying on the Fairmont Gold Floor
Three flag posts in front of a hotel entrance at the Ritz-Carlton, one of the best family hotels in DC.
The Ritz-Carlton provides a warm welcome to its guests. Photo credit: Melody Pittman

11. Ritz-Carlton, Washington DC

1150 22nd St NW
Washington DC 20037
(202) 835-0500

Located in the West End neighborhood of DC, the Ritz-Carlton is a five-star luxury hotel whose design echos the architecture favored by the Founding Fathers. But these elegant and spacious rooms have down comforters and Egyptian cotton sheets. 

Just four miles from the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, it won’t take long before you’re out of the airport and in your room. The hotel is centrally located to several sites in DC, just minutes away from the White House, National Mall and Georgetown shopping and dining.

Want to get in a game of golf during your stay? The hotel is just 20 minutes from two championship golf courses.

Kids are welcomed with their own special check-in and the opportunity to choose a souvenir from a Red Wagon loaded with toys. Picky eaters like my son won’t have much to complain about with special, healthy menus provided just for them. There’s also a scavenger hunt around the hotel with a special prize waiting for the little ones once they’ve found everything.

Other hotel amenities include a high-end spa, indoor pool, fitness center and “technology pods” with internet access. There’s also a bistro, lounge and 24-hour room service for when you’ve worked up an appetite.

Here’s why Ritz-Carlton, Washington DC is great for families:

  • Centrally located and convenient to airports, museums and historic sites
  • Kids accommodations, activities and treats such as a special kids check-in, Red Wagon Welcome with a complimentary souvenir, special menus and a kids’ scavenger hunt with a prize
  • Indoor pool and Equinox sports club next to the hotel
  • Transportation services available
A marina at sunset near the Mandarin Oriental, one of the best family hotels in Washington DC.
Catch a beautiful Washington DC sunset from your water or city view room. Photo credit: Kim Orlando

12. Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC

1330 Maryland Ave SW
Washington DC 20024
(202) 554-8588

The Mandarin Oriental is a rarity among the family hotels in Washington DC. It has an actual kids’ club. Drop off the little ones at The Panda Club for up to three hours while you explore or take some time to pamper yourself at the spa or fitness center. Kids ages 3-10 can enjoy  games, movies, books and arts and crafts while you explore the nearby Thomas Jefferson Memorial, White House or downtown DC area. Or, enjoy an adults-only dinner at one of the upscale restaurants at the District Wharf neighborhood.

Back at the hotel, there’s an indoor pool and numerous complimentary family activities, such as ice cream socials, Monday Night Movies and Pig Roast Thursdays. With free wifi and a business center, you won’t have to worry about being disconnected. If you stay in a suite, you may get lucky enough to snag a balcony with a panoramic water or city view.

Here’s why the Mandarin Oriental Washington DC is great for families:

  • Home to the Panda Club, DC’s only children’s club with up to three hours of child care 
  • Childcare available with CPR and First Aid Certified nannies.
  • Complimentary family events and experiences
  • Family suites with connecting rooms available
Three orange and white bikes.
Rent a complimentary bike for a fun way to explore the city. Photo credit: Kim Orlando

13. Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC

700 F St NW
Washington DC 20004
(202) 628-7177

Just blocks from some of the best sights in the nation’s capital, the Kimpton Hotel Monaco is a family hotel in Washington DC’s Penn Quarter neighborhood. The hotel is also dog-friendly, so families traveling with their furry family members can rest assured that everyone will be welcomed here.

Before heading out to enjoy the city, take advantage of the complimentary morning coffee and tea service. Afterwards, you can spend the day exploring the nearby National Gallery of Art, Jefferson Memorial, Hillwood Museum and Gardens and the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial. When you return to the hotel, unwind with a meal at the hotel restaurant and bar, or mix and mingle with other guests at the nightly evening wine hour.

If staying fit and healthy is a priority while you travel, the Kimpton Hotel Monaco has you covered. Not only do you have access to bikes to explore the city, but you’re also provided a yoga mat in your room, free of charge. The onsite fitness center is open 24/7, so you can work up a sweat when it’s most convenient for you. The in-room spa service is excellent for single parent travelers like myself who want to get some pampering but can’t leave their little ones in the room alone.

Here’s why the Kimpton Hotel Monaco is great for families:

  • Complimentary wifi available for club members
  • In-room dining
  • Adult and childrens bike rentals
  • In-room spa services available
  • Complimentary pet care available for furry family members

14. Capitol Hill Hotel

200 C St. SE
Washington DC 20003
(202) 543-6000

Between its convenient location to kid-friendly museums and attractions and its attention to the littlest travelers in your group, the Capitol Hill Hotel is one of the best family hotels in Washington DC. It’s less than three miles from the White House, a mile from the Capitol Building and just a block from the nearest Metro Station, making it easy to get around with the family.

From historic landmarks and museums to the best area restaurants and shops, the Capitol Hill Hotel is near it all, making exploring the nation’s capital with the family a breeze. Some of the nearby sites include the Library of Congress, National Mall, Union Station and Supreme Court. Museums and attractions that will keep the kids, teens and tweens on their toes include the Natural History Museum, Air and Space Museum, American History Museum and National Zoo.

With full-sized kitchens or kitchenettes with microwaves, mini-fridges and coffee makers in your room, eating in is an option versus dragging the little ones out to a restaurant. The Lobby Market makes it easy to grab the snacks you need without leaving the hotel. Other hotel amenities and perks include continental breakfast, in-room massage services and a 24-hour fitness center with Peloton bikes.

Here’s why the Capitol Hill Hotel is great for families:

  • One block from the nearest Metro stop
  • Complimentary bike rentals (with lock and helmet) for exploring the city
  • Conveniently located to several family-friendly museums
  • Spacious family-friendly guest rooms and suites with kitchens or kitchenettes with refrigerator
  • Daily continental breakfast
  • Family amenities provided such as highchairs and Pack ‘n Plays
A walkway lined with high end stores near the Grand Hyatt, one of the best family hotels in DC.
CityCenterDC is a shopping mecca, and just steps from the Grand Hyatt. Photo credit: Kimberly Miles

15. Grand Hyatt Washington

1000 H St. NW
Washington DC 20001
(202) 582-1234

Just steps away from the Metro Station, the Grand Hyatt Washington is convenient to museums, restaurants, nightlife and world-class shopping. Whether you’re in town for a short- or long-term stay, the Grand Hyatt is a family hotel in Washington DC that puts you in the middle of all of the action.

The National Mall is just blocks away. Those in town for sporting events and concerts won’t have to fight traffic or Metro crowds to get there, because the hotel is just a short eight-minute walk from the Capital One sports arena. The well-known Chinatown is also less than 10 minutes away.

When you’re ready to splurge on some shopping, you’re just steps away from one of the best places to do so. The CityCenterDC outdoor shopping development has more than 30 luxury stores including well-known brands such as Chanel, Gucci, Tiffany & Co. and Boss.

One of my personal favorite parts of the Grand Hyatt Washington is its breathtaking atrium courtyard. Other hotel features and amenities include an indoor pool, a bistro/bar, coffee shop, 24-hour fitness center and free wifi.

Here’s why the Grand Hyatt Washington is great for families:

  • Spacious, interconnecting rooms with refrigerators
  • Complimentary breakfast and snacks for club members
  • In-room restaurant delivery and in-room massages available