Taking the Acela into Union for the first time. Are there any hotels in the area, mid-range, even a little upscale?

What is the transportation situation once you're there.

I won't have a car, but friends will, although I'm not certain if they'll be in time to pick me up.

Which city? (Your post went into the United States forum - there are no regional US forums on Fodors despite the appearance.)

The words "Acela" and "Union Station" imply Washington to me.

One of the closest hotels (within walking distance) to Union Station is the Hyatt on New Jersey Avenue...BUT you can EASILY take the Metro to MANY others.

Unfortunately, you do not define the term mid-range."

Sorry, I thought I went into the DC forum.

Washington DC. Thanks!

Mid-range, I guess not a dump in a questionable neighborhood, but something less than $250 per night (the less, the better!)

In addition to Amtrak trains, Union Station is a stop on DC's excellent Metro system. You don't have to stay near the station; for less than $2 you can be within a few blocks of almost any hotel in the city.

These are the easiest to get to - there are of course many others.

As mentioned, Union Station is also on the Metro, putting most of the DC area hotels at your feet.

One block walk from Union Station:
http://www.hotelgeorge.com/
http://www.phoenixparkhotel.com/

2-3 block walk from Union Station:
http://www.washingtoncourthotel.com/
http://www.affinia.com/Washington-DC...n-Capitol-Hill
http://washingtonregency.hyatt.com/h...tels/index.jsp

Two Metro stops (red line) from Union Station:
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/trave...ention-center/
http://www.monaco-dc.com/
http://www.redroof.com/reservations/...ls.asp?num=254


Three Metro stops (red line) from Union station:
http://grandwashington.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/index.jsp
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/trave...-metro-center/

Thank you so much for the useful suggestions. I'm used to NYC subways which haven't been too reliable lately!