Washington D.C. in October
 

We are planning a trip to Washigton D.C. the beginning of October for a 7 night stay. We are trying to find the best area to stay while we (2 adults, mid-late 20's) are there. We are planning to do a lot of sightseeing via public transportation (do not want to rent a car). Wondering what the best area's are for lodging so we are central to sites. Safe and economical is a must as well! Also, any suggestions on a specific hotel? I have heard about Priceline, but not too sure how I feel about not knowing the hotel until after it's booked!?! Any other info on must see/do is VERY much appreciated! THANKS in advance for the suggestions!

Perhaps Embassy Row in Alexandria, across the street from the metro station, 15 minites into DC using either blue or yellow, depending on the sights you're visiting that day. Safe, economical, and offers option of walking up King Street to see Old Town and trying decent restaurants.

Dupont Circle area has many hotels, restaurants, night spots, easy Metro access to the "monuments and museums". Do a search - not too long ago there was a long thread about staying in the Dupont Circle area which should give you a lot of info.

Agree with Dupont Circle

Hotel recommendations:
1) Radisson Barcelo in Dupont Circle (walk to restaurants/shopping/bars)

2) Capitol Hill Suites in Capitol Hill
(quiet neighboorhood - 2 blocks from Capitol Bldg , also has bars & restaurants closeby)

Each of these are less than 2 blocks from a Metro Station.

Must see/do:
1) National Gallery of Art
2) Walking through G'town/Dupont/Adams Morgan
3) Dead presidents tour (Consider renting bikes for this)
(Wash./Lincoln/Jefferson/Roosevelt)
4) Holocaust Memorial Museum (allow 4-6 hours - great cafe too)
5) Nightclubbing on U street (while your young!)
6) Nat'l Zoo (the food is awful - bring your own picnic. Also, arrive via Clevland Park Metro - not the Zoo stop)
See Wahingtonpost.com for more ideas