I am interested in the safest area and a nice hotel. Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Sorry, left out that I would like the hotel to be within walking distance of the Smithsonian.

Smithsonian is an organization that runs 19 museums. While most are centered around the Mall, they still cover many blocks of the city. Any particular one you're talking about? Or do you just mean the "Castle"?

Assuming you mean the "Nation's Attic" (National Museum of American History), we stayed very happily at the JW Marriott, about two long blocks away, on a weekend in January for $120 including tax which we won on a Priceline bid. Midweek rack rate would be about $350+ inclusive. Easy walk to White House, Washington Monument, etc. Metro is easy, and there are places to eat breakfast, etc, more cheaply than at the hotel, if you are on a budget.

Thank you for your suggestion.

Any hotel near a metro station will easily, safely and cheaply get you to the National Mall. Don't worry about staying walking distance. Believe me, you will do PLENTY of walking just between all the museums. Bring very comfortable shoes!

JW Marriott
Willard - Intercontinental
Lowes - LaFant' plaza

Hilton Garden Inn - 14th and I - right accross from metro stop

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