Really check into what artsbabe related- because I did this trip, and for that time of year, or any time of year (I went both times very off seasons- last time in February)- $129 is a fab price for what you are going to get.

If I go with my Grandkids, I have already decided that I'm absolutely going to stay in Old Town Alexandria. They have tons of restaurants (maybe 40 or 50) near the water- many hotels and motels and the Metro is right THERE.

You may want to read my trip report thread. It is very long and it gives you the sense of why, with kids, I would choose that area, or the area around the Archives.

D.C. is the easiest place in the USA to get around on public transportation. For $22 (it may have gone up slightly) you can also get an entire week of using Metro etc. endlessly. You do not need to be so concerned about shuttles in D.C.

http://www.fodors.com/community/unit...-traveling.cfm

Here's the trip report, if you care to read it.

I use discount hotel suppliers- about 4 or 5 of them exclusively and I would try- if you need more than 1 room especially- maybe hotwire or quikbook. In 2009 I wanted a particular hotel room in Seattle and still got it using a discounter for 1/2 of the rackrate. It's very possible.

Hey, rb - haven't seen you around for a while; nice to see you back.

makamisa, do try rb's link to http://stationmasters.com/. It will be very helpful in showing you where hotels/restaurants/etc are in relation to the metro. As well as Embassy Suites, Marriott's Residence Inns are another good choice for having kitchens/kitchenettes.