Hi -

We're looking at going to DC with 2 kids (5, 11) the week of march 16th - spring break for a number of school systems. We can't afford the $200 to $300+ for *another quide's* kids recommended hotels, so I'm seeing what people here recommend. A 15 minute (or less) train ride would be quite doable, near some restaurants, indoor pool ... and closer to $150 a night (if possible). It may be that you just can't find something that low during that week, but I thought it's worth asking.
TIA for any suggestions.

In Alexandria, VA there are two Marriott Courtyards that offer rates of $169 per night for the week of March 16. Both hotels state they offer complimentary shuttle service to the Metro if that interests you at all. You may want to check TripAdvisor for reviews of these hotels.

Go to www.marriott.com and plug in your destination / dates for more information.

Have you checked hotels.com? I know you're looking for recommendations--unfortunately, the Marriotts where we've stayed in D.C. are more expensive than what you're looking for.

I don't think you are going to have much luck with your requirements of under $150, indoor pool and close to Metro. However, I do see that the Holiday Inn Rosslyn at Key Bridge has rooms with 2 double beds for $210 per night. It's got an indoor pool and is within walking distance of the Rosslyn Metro station which is just across the river from Washington, D.C. Rosslyn is mainly a business area, but there are plenty of restaurants around. I know NOTHING personally about this property, however.

You will indeed have to do some investigating to find a place at that price. DC lodging has become more expensive and that is a busy time. If you find something, grab it.
Northern Virginia (Arlington, Alexandria, Crystal City) or suburban Maryland (Silver Spring, Bethesda) are your most likely bets. In general the VA places are closer and often a better spot for your type visit. Just be sure you are near a Metro stop.

When one of my kids went to D.C. with her middle school class, they got a great deal at the nearby Sheraton Four Points: http://www.starwoodhotels.com/fourpo...anguage=en_US&

I'm seeing $139 for the Courtyard in DT Silver Spring -- right in the heart of the revitalized area.

New hotel (about 2 years or so).

It's not only right in the heart of a lot of restaurants, but there's a Whole Foods across the street and easy walk AFI and Metro. It's about a 20 minute ride to Union Station -- more than you want, but really not bad.

Check on pool, however, I think it's a health club deal.

Are you flying into DC, or driving in from the north or driving up from the south?

Thanks for all the suggestions; I'm looking through them and seeing what might work.

We're debating about driving vs flying; right now we're leaning towards flying in as driving would be two days each way and we have enough "miles" for three tickets, so we'd only have to buy one ticket. If we did drive we'd be coming in from the north.

http://www.vrbo.com

We have two kids and I'm done with hotels when we travel as a family. The site above is all condo rentals directly from the owners. I would bet there are many cute lofts downtown that might work for you. A one bedroom might even work if the owner has a pull out couch or would have blow up beds for you. We've had great luck with vrbo. The prices are usually MUCH less than a hotel and you get a kitchen and living room!

Embassy Suites Suites is Chevy Chase is RIGHT on top of the metro and very kid friendly. It also includes buffet breakfast. It is usually not too expensive, but I don't know about that week. It is where my cousin with twin 9 year olds have been staying for years whenever they visit DC.

Well, the pool at Silver Spring is out. It's a club right next door, but is a lap pool for adults ...

Still, a nice facility and right in your price range.

Doubtful the ES in Chevy Chase is in the OP's price range.