I'm researching our family's trip to d.c. - for end of April or early may 03'. I have not booked our hotel yet. there are 5 of us, it is our first time. can anyone recommend the best set up for a family close to the sights for walking, etc. we know if its a hotel we will be in two rooms. thanks!

Linda- do a search within this forum - your question's been answered many times. I'll tell you something I was able to reserve last May, but had to cancel: Summerfield Suites by Wyndham 2000 N Street, NW Phone: 202-659-9000

We had a suite with 2 baths, 2 bedrooms, plus L/R, full kitchen, 3Tv's reserved for about $155. It was a special avail only by calling. Someone recently posted here saying they'd stayed there and found it satisfactory. Also free breakfast. check out http://www.wyndham.com/hotels/DCAWA/main.wnt If you can get good rates, I recommend Dupont Circle area, a lively place day and night... don't worry about being "close to sites" - the Metro is great for getting around. If you cannot get good hotel rates, look at hotels in outskirts, like Arlington & Crystal City, near a Metro station.

Check rates on washingtondchotels.com - we found they had best rates for our trip this summer.

I, too, have been researching a family trip to DC for June 03. Anyone know anything about these hotels-Harrington
Hotel, State Plaza Hotel and the Channel
Inn? They seem to be centrally located and family friendly. Channel Inn has free parking, too. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks

I have been told that the Harriington is DC's answer to NYC's Pennsylvania Hotel.. In other words, to be avoided. Shabby, noisy, full of student groups, not a good buy for the $$.