12 Best DC Family Friendly Hotels from Washington Local

Washington DC
dc family friendly hotels


I'm excited to share my recommendations for the best DC family friendly hotels in Washington DC with family as a DC area mom. After exploring DC with my own family and hosting visiting relatives, I’ve found the best spots to stay. If you’re planning a trip with kids, you’ll want a hotel that offers comfort, convenience, and kid-friendly amenities. Whether you need roomy suites, a pool, or easy access to attractions, there’s something for every family here.

Best DC Family Friendly Hotels Table of Contents:

  1. Hotels Close to the National Mall (4)
  2. Luxury Hotels Near White House (2)
  3. Hotels in Neighborhoods (3)
  4. Hotels in Northern Virginia (3) 

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3 DC Family Friendly Hotels near the National Mall

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#1 Residence Inn Washington DC/Capitol Hotel - Our Favorite Family Friendly Hotel DC with Family Suites

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  • Location: Southwest
  • Cost: Around $350 per suite in June.
  • Pool? Yes! The Residence Inn has an indoor pool which is great for winter and summer alike!
  • Mom Notes: The Residence Inn Washington/DC Capitol includes a kitchenette, free breakfast, and free dinner buffet a few nights a week, and the all-important indoor pool! I wrote a full review here of our family's experience of this hotel plus 10 things to do around the hotel.


#2 Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf - Most Convenient DC Family Friendly Hotel

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  • Location: 975 7th Street Southwest, Washington, D.C., right along the scenic waterfront of The Wharf. This vibrant area is known for its dining, shopping, and entertainment options, offering easy access to the National Mall and various museums.
  • Cost: The cost per night varies depending on the season and room type, but typically ranges from $250 to $400 per night.
  • Pool? No, Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf does not have a pool but your kids can enjoy the splash pad right out front or SUP and boat rental a block away.
  • Mom Notes: The Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf is a stylish and modern hotel that offers a great location for families looking to explore Washington, D.C. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, free bike rentals, and beautiful views of the Potomac River, making it a great base for family adventures. It’s also within walking distance of major attractions, including the National Mall and museums.


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#3 Holiday Inn Washington-Capitol - Budget Option for Friendly Family Friendly Hotels Washington DC

  • Location: Southwest
  • Cost: Around $247 per room in June.
  • Pool? Yes! The Holiday Inn Washington- Capitol has a Rooftop Pool with great views of the Capitol!
  • Kid-Friendly Notes: The Holiday Inn has a great location close to Smithsonians like Air and Space and Natural History.

#4 Hyatt House at the Wharf in Southeast - Vibrant Family Friendly Hotel Near the Washington DC Monuments

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  • Location: Southwest DC
  • Cost: $270-$350 per suite in June. (very varied!)
  • Family Trip Guides Notes: Hyatt House at the Wharf is the most recommended family-friendly hotel in DC. Great outdoor pool on the roof! Extended stay hotel suites with kitchenettes, close to attractions, waterfront views, and 20+ restaurants right outside the hotel’s doors. And the National Mall is only 3 blocks away!


Best Luxury Washington DC Hotels for Families

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#4 Willard Hotel- Luxury Family Hotel Near the White House DC

  • Location: 1 block from the White House on Pennsylvania Ave.
  • Cost: Around $500 in the summer.
  • Pool? Unfortunately, no pool.
  • Kid-Friendly Notes: The Willard InterContinental Washington DC is a historic and luxurious hotel ideal for families, offering spacious suites, a prime location near the White House and National Mall, and kid-friendly dining options. The hotel provides family-oriented packages, amenities like cribs and high chairs, and a unique educational experience with its rich history.
  • Fun Note! The term "lobbyist" is said to have originated at the Willard Hotel, where President Ulysses S. Grant reportedly used it to describe the political advocates who frequented the hotel’s lobby to seek his favor and influence decisions.


#5 Marriott Marquis Hotel - 4 Star Family Hotel Near the White House in Washington DC

  • Location: 2 blocks from the White House on Pennsylvania Ave.
  • Cost: Around $200 in the summer.
  • Pool? Unfortunately, no pool.
  • Kid-Friendly Notes: The Marriott Marquis Washington DC near the White House is perfect for families, offering spacious suites, a central location close to major attractions, kid-friendly dining options, and essential amenities like cribs and high chairs. With special family packages, access to nearby recreational facilities, and excellent concierge services, the hotel ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay with modern comforts like free Wi-Fi and in-room entertainment.


3 Best Family Hotels and Places to Stay in Washington DC Neighborhoods

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#6 Watergate Hotel- Iconic Family Friendly Hotel in Washington DC

  • Location: Foggy Bottom neighborhood (2 miles from Georgetown)
  • Cost: $250 ish
  • Pool? Yes the Watergate Hotel has an iconic rooftop pool!
  • Kid-Friendly Notes: The Watergate Georgetown Hotel in Washington DC offers an excellent family-friendly experience with spacious accommodations, a prime location near Georgetown and key attractions, and kid-friendly dining options. The hotel provides essential amenities for children, special family packages, access to a rooftop pool, and exceptional concierge services, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay with modern comforts like free Wi-Fi and in-room entertainment.


#7 Embassy Suites by Hilton Inn Georgetown - Great neighborhood place to stay in Washington DC!

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Hotel is down the street!

  • Location: Georgetown, Northwest
  • Cost: $240-$350 per suite in June. (very varied!)
  • Pool? Yes!
  • Family Trip Guides Notes: Embassy Suites is, of course, an all-suite hotel with microwaves and refrigerators and free breakfast in beautiful Georgetown! (But may need to walk and metro to more)


#8 Capitol Hill Hotel - Neighborhood Family Friendly DC Hotel

  • Location: Southeast
  • Cost: Depends on the size of the suite, $150-$350
  • Pool? No pool
  • Kid-Friendly Notes: The Capitol Hill Hotel is a non-chain hotel with a great location and perks! Located on the Hill and has many different size suites to accommodate families (all with kitchenettes). Check out their Capitol Kids program for info on games, roll-away beds, and highchairs!


3 Northern Virginia Family Hotels and Best Places to Stay Near DC

I personally think that Northern Virginia is a great place to have your travel base for those visiting Washington DC due to its affordability, convenient transportation, and peaceful environment. With easy access to the city via the Metro (just 1 or 2 stops sometimes!) and many hotels providing shuttle services, getting to DC's attractions is hassle-free. The area also boasts its own family-friendly attractions, family friendly dining, and shopping options. Many hotels cater specifically to families, offering amenities like swimming pools and complimentary breakfast.

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#9 Holiday Inn Arlington at Ballston - Family Friendly Hotel Near Washington DC with Outdoor Pool!

  • Location: Rosslyn, just across a bridge from DC.
  • Cost: $95 – $200 per night based on date.
  • Pool? Outdoor pool!
  • Kid-Friendly Notes: Holiday Inn Arlington is across the Potomac river but the metro stop is just down the street and can get you into the city in less than 10 minutes! Free parking (which is rare!) and an outdoor pool and fitness center).


#10 Hyatt Regency Crystal City at Reagan National Airport - Best in Convenient Place to Stay near DC with Kids and a pool!

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  • Location: Arlington, VA
  • Cost: Around $150
  • Pool? Yes, this hotel has an outdoor pool.
  • Family-Friendly Features: The Hyatt Regency Crystal City offers spacious rooms and suites, an outdoor pool, and several dining options, including a kid-friendly menu. It provides convenient access to the Metro, making it easy to travel into DC (only 2-3 stops!) The hotel also offers a complimentary airport shuttle and is close to attractions like the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery.


#11 Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington Capital View Family Friendly Hotel

  • Location: Arlington, VA
  • Pool? Yes, it has an outdoor pool!
  • Cost: Around $120
  • Family-Friendly Features: This all-suite hotel offers fully equipped kitchens, making it ideal for families who prefer to prepare some of their meals. It features an indoor pool, a complimentary breakfast buffet, and evening socials with snacks. The hotel provides easy access to the Metro and complimentary shuttle service to Reagan National Airport and the Crystal City Metro Station.

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Check out this list of the best Arlington Playgrounds!

Whether you're looking for a hotel near the National Mall, one with a pool to cool off after sightseeing, or a suite with space for the whole crew, D.C. has fantastic options for families. As a local mom, I know how important it is to find a comfortable, convenient, and kid-friendly home base and I hope this list helps you feel more confident planning your visit. Want more help making the most of your time in D.C.? Check out these family-tested guides:

More D.C. Family Travel Resources:

  1. 50 Free Things to do in Washington DC
  2. 24 Hours in Washington DC with a Google Map to help you plan.
  3. Best Indoor Activities for Rainy Days in D.C.
  4. 4-Day Itinerary in Washington DC with morning, afternoon, and evening schedules matched with great restaurants!

Seasonal

  1. Holiday Lights Near D.C.
  2. Fall Festivals Near DC in Virginia and Maryland
  3. Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC
  4. Summer Fun in Washington DC

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Check out 30 Best Things to Do in DC With Kids here!

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