What is your idea of "inexpensive," and what do you consider the "main attractions?"

Who is we? What exact date? What is your budget?

Hotel parking is generally $25 - 50/night

DC is expensive, as is parking a car. Every year for the last 4, I have taken a 10 yeart old grandchild to DC and Williamsburg. First I stayed in the Embassy Suites in Alexandria...paid $25 for parking and ~$200 for room and breakfast. It is is right beside the subway and was easy and fast to get to the Mall area...my favorite part of DC. But the steps and extra walking were to taxing for me.

Now I stay at the Willard...expensive yes, but a great hotel and location plus comes with breakfast or free parking on weekend specials. This summer I have a room/breakfast for 2 for $240. The Willard is walking distance to the things we want to see or if I get to tired a $6-10 taxi. It and the Marriott next door are between the White House and the Mall on Penn. Ave. There are some hotels farer away from the Mall area, but require a subway or more costly taxi ride so do not do it for me, but with young knees..... Do a search for DC hotels on this forum. I felt the small amount of savings wasn't enough for the inconvienence of the subway ride and extra walking.

With only one night and I assume part of two days, you do want to be as close as you can afford so you don't spend much of your time traveling in and out. Do plan to walk the Mall from near the Capitol to at least the WWII Memorial or all the way to the Lincoln memorial at sunset/eary evening. It is a bit downhill and facing the sunset so is a really nice stroll plus you see the sites. We had an early dinner at the Hard Rock Cafe and walked over and down. It was my granddaughter's idea and we loved.