Statefan

We've decided to take advantage of a great weekend rate at the Marriott Suites near Dulles. We will be driving there from NC, but assume we should not plan on trying to take the car to DC each day. What is the best method for getting to/from this hotel to the Mall area each day with 2 younger kids?

RobertoE

Drive to one of the Park & Ride stations along the Orange route. The Metro goes directly to the Smithsonian Station (the Mall) without changing trains. Here's a map of the Metro:

http://www.wmata.com/metrorail/systemmap.cfm

laminmd

Unfortunately, there is no good method. You have chosen a hotel that is not located on the metro line. Please rethink your location or you will spend a lot of time driving your car to the nearest metro station at West Falls Church and then paying to leave it there!

Missy3

If it's going to be a weekend, you may as well drive in to DC and use a parking garage. Just go in very early. Marriott is a long way from metro stations, but, if you use the metro, also a good idea to go very early. You are very close to the Air and Space museum....not to be missed. Have fun in DC

Statefan

I appreciate the advice. We know this is not the ideal location, but we are getting a suite for 3 nights @ $67/night plus $50 in Marriott Bonus Bucks. Breakfast is free due to my status with Marriott, too.

Any ideas on where to park near the Mall on Sat/Sun?

LN

As to Metro there are Park and Rides all over the area. The Marriott location can help you go to either the Herndon Park and Ride or the Sunrise Hills P & R and catch a bus to the West Falls Church Metro Station.

As to a good parking place in DC - I haven't really parked in one on weekends in years but you might prefer to be around 10th and Pennsylvania where you're in a convenient walking location.

Sounds like you've got a great deal there and you'll have a great time in DC.

Just don't forget the Udvar-Hazy museum (part of Smithsonian) which is located adjacent to Dulles Airport. Kids love it!

like_2travel

LN is right - see the Udvar Hazy (Air & Space ) Smithsonian Museum at Dulles. Its 10 minutes from your hotel. Your kids will love it. An IMAX is there as well. Take the Toll Rd West and exit at 28 South. Follow signs. Although the museum is free, its on airport property, thus parking costs $12.

If you're staying at the Marriot Suites on Worldgate drive, walk to one of several adjacent restaurants which are surprisingly good and family friendly. Pho 2000 is good for Asian, vegetarian, and seafood. Turcuisine is good, as is Sushi place, A deli, and a wings place. There's also a few chains - a Cold Stone creamery, Starbucks, etc.