Hotels near Smithsonian Institution

Top reasons to visit Smithsonian Institution

• Free Cultural Experiences: Enjoy complimentary tours of iconic museums and art galleries, immersing yourself in the rich history of Washington, D.C.
• Diverse Attractions: Explore a variety of engaging activities, including theatre performances and live music venues.
• Urban Parks and Family-Friendly Activities: Experience a delightful mix of outdoor spaces and attractions suitable for all ages.
• Convenient Accommodation: Choose from a range of nearby hotels catering to various preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Historic Landmarks: Discover significant sites like the Capitol Complex, enhancing your cultural exploration.

Find great hotels near Smithsonian Institution

Discover a range of accommodation options near the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. From pet-friendly hotels to welcoming spaces for LGBTQIA travellers, you’ll find the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploration. Whether you prefer a hotel or apartment, the vicinity offers convenient lodging options tailored for business or leisure, ensuring a memorable stay in the heart of the nation’s capital.

• Washington Plaza Hotel: The Washington Plaza Hotel is a distinguished 4-star hotel known for its welcoming atmosphere and family-friendly amenities. Situated 2km from the Smithsonian Institution, this hotel caters to both family and business travellers. Guests can enjoy complimentary amenities for children, such as breakfast options and free cribs, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. The hotel features a charming outdoor pool and a fitness centre, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Hamilton Hotel Washington DC: Located a mere mile from the Smithsonian Institution, the Hamilton Hotel Washington DC is a sophisticated 4-star accommodation tailored for business travellers. With its modern design and convenient location, the hotel provides a blend of elegance and functionality. Guests will appreciate the extensive meeting facilities, along with a well-equipped fitness centre. The hotel's on-site dining options offer a refined culinary experience, making it an attractive choice for those seeking both comfort and convenience during their stay.
• Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG: The Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - Natl Mall by IHG is a welcoming 3-star hotel, also located 2km from the Smithsonian Institution. This property stands out for its pet-friendly policy and family-oriented amenities, making it a viable choice for travellers with pets or children. Guests can benefit from various children's amenities, including breakfast options and free cribs. With its proximity to major attractions and comfortable accommodations, this hotel provides a relaxed atmosphere for both family and business visits.

Where to stay near Smithsonian Institution

Your visit to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., promises an enriching experience steeped in history and culture. Just a minute's walk from iconic museums, you'll find yourself immersed in a vibrant urban atmosphere, characterised by friendly locals and family-friendly activities. Explore the nearby downtown area, where the majestic Capitol Complex and other significant landmarks await, making it an ideal base for discovering the many treasures of this historic city.

• Washington: As the capital of the United States, Washington is a vibrant metropolis brimming with history and culture. The Smithsonian Institution, a key attraction, is located here, drawing millions of visitors each year. The city’s appeal lies in its diverse offerings, from family-friendly activities to outdoor adventures. Notable highlights include urban parks, national state parks, and sports facilities, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking a mix of education, shopping, and leisure. With visitor numbers peaking in May and during the summer months, Washington offers a bustling atmosphere where one can explore iconic landmarks and vibrant neighbourhoods.
• Downtown Washington D.C.: Situated just 1.6km away from the Smithsonian Institution, Downtown Washington D.C. is a dynamic neighbourhood that serves as the heart of the city’s cultural and commercial activities. With a moderate seasonal visitor flow, particularly peaking in spring and summer, it is a popular spot for families and those seeking outdoor experiences. The area boasts numerous shopping centres and educational venues, alongside historic places and urban parks that invite exploration. Downtown D.C. is an excellent base for venturing out to discover the city’s rich heritage and lively atmosphere.
• Arlington: Located approximately 5km from the Smithsonian Institution, Arlington is a city that seamlessly blends urban living with historical significance. It attracts visitors year-round, with a notable uptick in spring and summer months. Known for its family-friendly environment and business-themed experiences, Arlington offers a range of shopping centres and educational opportunities. The city is also home to urban parks, historic sites, and sports facilities, making it a well-rounded destination for various interests. Arlington's close proximity to Washington D.C. allows for easy exploration of both the city’s attractions and its own unique offerings.

Things to do near Smithsonian Institution

Shopping

The Smithsonian Institution itself features various gift shops offering unique souvenirs and educational items. If you're up for a drive, visit Tysons Corner Center, around 19km away, where you'll find a wide range of retail stores, dining options, and specialty shops perfect for gifts.

Recreation

The Enid A. Haupt Garden offers a tranquil retreat with its beautiful floral displays and calming water features. Nearby, the National Museum of Natural History provides interactive exhibits and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for leisurely exploration and reflection on the wonders of nature.

Adventure

Explore The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring, located 26km from the Smithsonian Institution, where you can navigate thrilling zipline and ropes courses amidst beautiful outdoor scenery. Alternatively, Go Ape - Treetop Adventure, 29km away, offers more ziplining and treetop challenges for the adventurous spirit.

Nightlife

The Smithsonian Institution offers a unique nightlife experience with events like evening exhibitions and outdoor films at the National Mall. Nearby, the lively bars in Penn Quarter provide a vibrant atmosphere, while the Kennedy Center showcases captivating performances, enhancing your after-dark adventure in Washington, D.C.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Smithsonian Institution

To save money during your visit to the Smithsonian Institution, consider travelling between December and February when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Fridays. Avoid Tuesdays for the highest rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter and sort hotel options by price and type, including eco-friendly hotels. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities can lead to further savings. Take advantage of the many free activities offered at the Smithsonian to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Smithsonian Institution are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and October, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Smithsonian Institution is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Smithsonian Institution is Tuesday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and much more. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking near the Smithsonian Institution with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Smithsonian Institution

Exploring the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. offers a delightful mix of urban parks, museums, and historic civic government buildings. Visitors can immerse themselves in rich cultural experiences, enjoy outdoor activities, and engage in family-friendly attractions. For a comfortable stay, consider nearby hotels and take the opportunity to visit various Smithsonian museums, including the renowned Smithsonian National Museum, to enrich your trip.

• White House: This iconic building serves as the residence of the President of the United States. As you approach, you'll appreciate its neoclassical architecture and the lush gardens surrounding it, embodying the nation's history and culture.
• National Mall: A vast expanse of green and monuments, the National Mall invites visitors to stroll, reflect, and take in impressive views of the U.S. Capitol and Lincoln Memorial. It's an ideal spot for outdoor activities and scenic photography.
• National Museum of Natural History: Home to an extensive collection of specimens and exhibits, this museum offers a captivating journey through the natural world, making it a delightful experience for families and culture enthusiasts alike.

Best time to go to Smithsonian Institution

The best time to visit Smithsonian Institution can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Smithsonian Institution falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Smithsonian Institution falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	35.1°F (1.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
June	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	77.4°F (25.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	71.1°F (21.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	59.9°F (15.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Smithsonian Institution

Visiting the Smithsonian Institution is convenient with several major airports nearby. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is merely 6km away, with luxurious hotel options such as the InterContinental Washington D.C. - The Wharf and Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf, both 3km from the airport. Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is situated 39km from the museum, offering nearby stays like the Hyatt Regency Dulles International Airport and The Westin Washington Dulles Airport, both just 2km away. For those considering Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), located 43km away, the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore provides a refined experience 13km from the airport.