Jim Rogers

I would like to know if the neighborhood around the Howard Johnson hotel at 1430 Rhode Island Avenue in Washington, DC is safe?

Neal Sanders

I'm leery of the area north of Massachusetts Avenue along the 14th St. corridor; Washington DC changes fairly dramatically from association offices and law firms to rather forbidding old row houses and run-down commercial properties. For whatever reason, hotels seem to be the first to colonize such areas. Were it me, I would take a pass on HoJo and look for a hotel south of Massachusetts or west of Dupont Circle (or conversely, across the river in Virginia). That probably isn't what you wanted to hear. If I can be of further help, please let me know.

Michael Matthews

I tend to agree with Neal. If you have some kind of special deal with HoJo, try the one on Virginia Avenue across the street from Watergate or the one out in Crystal City, VA. But I would find a hotel a few blocks west of 14th street, especially if you aren't familiar with DC.

ilisa

The Howard Johnson's on Rhode Island Avenue is located between 16th and 17th Streets, NW and is right near the National Geographic Society and the Australian Embassy. I used to work in that area and know that it is a safe neighborhood. It is much better than the Howard Johnson's on Virginia Avenue.

ilisa

I'm sorry. I meant to say between 15th and 16th in my previous post. However, I worked just a block from there and it is a safe hotel and area.

Donna

You must be very careful anywhere east or (more than a few blocks) north of Scott Circle. If you stay in this area, take a taxi back at night. Do not walk east or north. But, west is okay. In DC, one block can make a huge difference in the safety of the neighborhood.