Image courtesy of Pendry Washington D.C. - The Wharf
Washington, DC is an excellent destination for families. World-class museums captivate young minds while iconic landmarks like the National Mall offer spaces for exploration. There’s a diverse dining scene for little ones to try new menus from around the world, great shopping and fun activities like ice skating in winter or hiking in Rock Creek Park in warmer months. From luxe hotels in Georgetown to stylish boutique properties on the Wharf, learn about the best hotels in Washington, DC for families, with insights from Fora travel experts.
Fora often hosts familiarization — or FAM — trips to destinations around the world. In late 2024, a group of Fora travel advisors visited Washington, DC to get better acquainted with some of the city’s best hotels and attractions. This article incorporates their experiences, along with the experiences of local Fora Advisors, to give you a clear picture of family-friendly hotels in the city.
For tailored recommendations, connect with a Fora Advisor to book and plan your family trip. Your Fora Advisor will help you find the hotel that best fits your budget and preferences, and can unlock complimentary hotel perks at properties across the city. If you also need help building an itinerary, your advisor can offer insider tips and expert suggestions.
Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C.
The Four Seasons brand goes above and beyond to cater to families with thoughtful amenities, including welcome gifts for children, customized activities and kid- (and adult-) friendly dining options. The location in DC’s Georgetown is no different. The hotel provides easy access to family-friendly attractions like the National Mall, Smithsonian museums and the C&O Canal — but there’s also a degree of separation, making for a quieter stay. Spacious suites and connecting rooms provide plenty of space for larger groups, and the indoor pool is a hit with younger guests. Four Seasons’ concierge team is exceptional at recommending and organizing family itineraries, too. Meanwhile, parents can unwind at the world-class spa or the acclaimed Seasons restaurant.
“Four Seasons’ spa is hands-down my favorite spa in the DMV (DC-Maryland-Virginia area),” Fora Advisor and DC local Liz Laird said. “From the impeccably designed and zen-like locker room with showers, steam room, sauna to the outstanding aestheticians and massage therapists who offer a variety of services, the spa is a perfect stop after a day of sightseeing or before a little shopping in Georgetown.”
Fora Perks at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC:
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
Lyle Washington DC
Image courtesy of Lyle Washington DC
Lyle Washington DC, one of the best hotels in Washington, DC for any type of traveler, is a pleasant boutique hotel with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Located in the lively Dupont Circle neighborhood, the hotel is close to family-friendly attractions like the National Zoo and the National Mall, plus an array of international eateries and shops. Spacious rooms and suites, some with kitchenettes, offer families the flexibility and comfort needed for a relaxing stay. The on-site restaurant, Lyle’s, features a diverse menu with options that appeal to both adults and kids.
The hotel is housed in an updated Art Deco apartment building, Fora Advisor Jen Perrone noted, adding that “if you want to feel like a local, stay at Lyle.” Families will appreciate the attentive service, with staff eager to provide recommendations for local activities and dining.
Fora Perks at Lyle Washington DC:
$50 food / beverage credit, welcome amenity, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
Image courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC is a luxurious choice for families. Housed in the historic Old Post Office building, the hotel’s location near the National Mall is great for sightseeing. Jen noted that the hotel hosts some of the largest suites and rooms in the city, many of which feature separate living areas. In particular, she highlighted the Waldorf Townhouse Bi-Level Suite, DC’s largest, and offers multiple bedrooms, a private gym and a separate entrance. Discerning families won’t find many better options that offer such immediate access to DC’s attractions.
The Waldorf Astoria’s dining options cater to all tastes, with menus that include kid-friendly choices alongside elevated offerings. An on-site spa and wellness center provide a source of relaxation for parents, while the architecture and rich history captivate guests of all ages. And attentive staff create a seamless stay, from arranging personalized activities to recommending family-friendly outings.
“If you want to see “some of the best views of the city without having to snag a Washington Monument ticket,” Fora Advisor Liz Laird added, you can head next door and National Park Service rangers will escort you up the elevators to enjoy “breathtaking views” from the 315-foot Old Post Office Tower.
Fora Perks at Waldorf Astoria Washington DC:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, VIP status and an upgrade whenever possible.
Pendry Washington DC
Image courtesy of Pendry Washington D.C. - The Wharf
Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf is a chic waterfront retreat. Located in the vibrant Wharf district, the hotel provides easy access to outdoor activities like boat tours, water-taxi rides, waterfront parks and major venues like The Anthem (where DC’s most high-profile concerts are held). The rooftop pool is a standout feature, offering families a fun place to relax with views of the Potomac River. And the hotel’s prime location allows for easy exploration of DC — the aforementioned water taxis can take you all over the western half of the city.
“The Pendry has firmly established itself as my top recommendation for clients,” Fora Advisor Alana Stoyas said, highlighting the exceptional service and modern and chic rooms that strike the perfect balance of comfort and elegance.
Fora Perks at Pendry Washington DC:
$100 hotel / resort credit, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Park Hyatt Washington D.C.
Image courtesy of Park Hyatt Washington D.C.
Park Hyatt Washington D.C. combines modern sophistication with thoughtful amenities that make it a solid option for families. Situated in DC’s West End neighborhood, the hotel is close to family-friendly destinations like the National Zoo, Georgetown’s waterfront and the National Mall. Spacious rooms and suites, some of which have connecting options, provide the flexibility and space larger families need. Families can also enjoy the indoor saltwater pool, a relaxing feature after a day of exploring the city. The concierge team excels at creating personalized itineraries, with visits to attractions from museum visits to nearby parks, making family adventures effortless.
Fora Perks at Park Hyatt Washington D.C.:
$100 hotel / resort credit, welcome amenity, breakfast daily, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Book your family trip to Washington, DC with a Fora Advisor
Connect with a Fora Advisor to start planning your family trip to Washington, DC. Your advisor can handle all the hassles of booking, make sure any special requests are communicated to the hotel and, if you’d like, offer itinerary suggestions and other travel tips to level up your vacation.
Washington, DC hotel FAQs for family travel
Read on for answers to questions about the best hotels in Washington, DC for families.
Is Washington, DC safe? What areas of the city are best to stay in for families?
Washington, DC is indeed safe for families. It’s wise to avoid some of the more residential areas of the city’s eastern side at night, but virtually all of DC’s top attractions — the museums, landmarks and so on — are located in the western half of the city. Georgetown, the neighborhoods around the National Mall and the waterfront are all great areas for families to stay.
What are the best things to do in Washington, DC for families?
Washington, DC’s best museums top most family itineraries. From the National Air and Space Museum to the National Museum of Natural History, topics across all disciplines are covered. Plus, many of these museums are free to visit. DC is also filled with monuments honoring American figures like George Washington and Martin Luther King Jr. (The best walking tours in Washington, DC will take you to all of them.) An additional attraction families may enjoy include Rock Creek Park, a large urban oasis with hiking trails, picnic areas and a planetarium. Georgetown’s waterfront offers paddle boating and riverside dining. You can also take guided tours of the White House or Supreme Court.
How far in advance should you book family-friendly hotels in Washington, DC?
DC’s museums and landmarks draw millions of tourists from all over the world every year. The best hotels in Washington, DC for families fill up fast; we recommend booking these hotels at least three to four months in advance. That said, last-minute accommodations should be possible, provided you don’t mind a smaller selection of properties and room types.
More family-friendly destinations in the US
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