Computer would'nt let me log-in for the past few days...finally borrowed husbands laptop. Thanks for all the information. Spending the majority of time in Williamburg at the Powhaton timeshare, economical way for our family of six to vacation. We are meeting people there, but not until midweek, so I have a little flexability.The JW marriot rate is $169 and since we would need two rooms, a bit to high for us. (Really watching budget this trip.) Hilton Garden Inn, Arlington/courthouse plaza is one hotel choice(2 rooms about $55 each), just found out we can get the Radisson Barcelo with travel points, just pay $23 parking fee. Trying to come in earlier than planned...hopefully around 4:00, maybe we could do a night monument tour that night? Wish more things were open later! Sorry to keep changing questions, you gave me lots to think about. Would either of these be a good choice? With 4 kids, safety and ease to metro are main concerns. Thanks again, you guys are great!

Cherry blossoms are starting to bloom.

Hilton Garden Arlington/Courthouse - Nice yuppie neighborhood w/lots of condos, offices and cafes. 1/2 block walk to the right Metro line. (Orange) Only a few stops from Smithsonian stop. Don't know this hotel but looks new. Good rate. A family member works for an airline and stays at Hilton Gardens for the most part. Finds them to be fine.

Barcelo Radisson Dupont Circle/ Business Center - Office buildings, restaurants and bars. Can't beat the rate. Don't know anything about it but in a good part of town. Probably 5 blocks walk to the Metro stop for Orange line to get you to Smithsonian stop. At that point you might as well just keep walking to the Mall which is several blocks further.

Would advise that you look here and see if people have mentioned actually staying at either property. If there are any drawbacks.

Have a good trip!

darboy: kaklena is right, if you search for "radisson barcelo" and then "hilton arlington" you will get alot of recent discussions and reviews of those hotels.

To see everything in all the Smithsonian museums, you need the rest of your life! One day -- or one week -- is barely enough time to scratch the surface. But they have a great web site that allows you to pinpoint the museums and specific exhibits that most interest you: www.si.edu

I live near Wmsbg, Powhatan Plantation is well-maintained timeshare resort, a friend owns there. I have to agree, you may want the flexibility of being able to stay 2 days in DC, the timeshare will be there whenever you get there. The younger kids will LOVE the insect zoo, gems and other things at Smithsonial Natural History museum. Zoo would be nice too if weather is good.

OK. Decided on the Radisson Barcello, and booked both Saturday and Sunday nights. The second night is still iffy, but I think everyone will agree there is MUCH to enjoy here! Driving looks very intimidating, so may look into the tours you have mentioned. Will post subject line. Thank you for all your help! Karen

We will be in Dc for 3 days including Easter.
We hadn't planned on renting a car, but should we? We are stayng at the Embassy Suites in downtown dc.

You won't need one if the sights you are planning to visit are the standard downtown tourist venues. If you want to see something farther afield (say Mt Vernon) then a car would be convenient but not a necessity. Might depend on the size of your group