Any suggestions on cheap accomdations located near central attractions in DC? Thank you!

Mary

Hi, Mary!

Although we didn't use it on our last visit (as Howard Johnson was offering a cheaper rate up the other end of town), my own feeling is you can't beat the Harrington for position... and compared to some of the other hotels in DC, it's almost bargain-basement. Just three or four blocks to the White House... but quite a hike to the Capitol!

But I've seen so many reviews of het Harrington that say it's a dump!

I got a great rate using Capitol Reservations; I think their site is www.washingtondchotels.com

It depends on how cheap you want to go. My family stayed at the youth hostel 2 blocks form the convention center 3 years ago. The location was okay. we felt safe. It was a little loud - street noise, not residents. I think a family room (4 bunks, tiny, bare bones, with a shower down the hall) was about $60 per night.

Although I stayed in quite a few hostels before I had a reasonable income, the reason we stayed at this hostel wasn't financial; it was the closest place to the convention center that had any rooms that week. It turned out to be a great experience for my children.

I've also been really happy staying at the Kalorama guest house, near the zoo.

Yikes, you don't have to go much higher than $60 per night to stay at a decent place. Last year, through Capitol Reservations, I got a suite at Best Western New Hampshire Suites in Foggy Bottom for $79 per night, including a bedroom, livingroom with sofabed, a kitchenette, private bath of course, and substantial continental breakfast (waffles, bagels, etc.).

Mary,I just came back from Washington,DC and we went into the Hotel Harrington and checked out the place.The front desk clerk gave us a key to see a room and it was basic and looked very clean to me.We are thinking of staying there on our next trip to save some money.You can't beat the location.Within walking distance to quite a few attractions,restaurants,museums....
The room was large with two double
beds and a twin bed.The bathroom was good size and clean.They had a fridge,hot pot,and plastic bucket of
coffee packets.It looks like a good place to stay to me.In MY honest opinion.Good luck,you'll love Washington,DC.

Try www.quikbook.com -- there are occasionally some surprises. I've seen the State Plaza (Foggy Bottom) listed for $89/night. These are actually suites and we found it to be a great value.