Waterfront Hotels in Washington, DC

Most tourists come to Washington to visit the White House, the monuments and the Smithsonian. Surprisingly though, the nation's capital offers ample activities for outdoor enthusiasts as well, from kayaking on the Potomac to hiking through Rock Creek Park to biking along the C&O Canal. After a long day of DC activities, a waterfront hotel is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the views of the Potomac River.

Mandarin Oriental

Offering panoramic views of the Potomac River and the Tidal Basin, the Mandarin Oriental is a luxury hotel situated a few blocks from the National Mall. As its name suggests, hotel decor is heavily influenced by Asian culture and each guest room is decorated according to feng shui principles. For outdoor enthusiasts, the hotel offers three jogging maps and it will book bicycles for guests wishing to pedal along the Mount Vernon Bike Trail.

Mandarin Oriental
1330 Maryland Ave. S.W.
Washington, DC 20024
(202) 554 8588
www.mandarinoriental.com/washington

Watergate Hotel

For a taste of history, book a room at the Watergate Hotel, which has sweeping vistas of the Potomac. Built in the early 1970s, the Watergate is one of the finest examples of DC modern architecture and is best known for its role in the Watergate scandal. Numerous parks, like Old Stone House Park and the Theodore Roosevelt Island National Memorial are located nearby. The Watergate is currently undergoing renovation, but plans to re-open in late 2009.

1 Virginia Ave. N.W.
Washington, DC 20037
(202) 965-2300
www.thewatergatehotel.com‎

Channel Inn Hotel

Located right in front of the Potomac River, the Channel Inn Hotel provides waterfront views at an affordable price. Room rates generally start around $169. Guests of the hotel are welcome to take a dip in the swimming pool or jog along the riverside promenade, where yachts and fishing boats frequently drop anchor. The Channel Inn is also minutes away from the Smithsonian and the National Monuments.

Channel Inn Hotel
650 Water St. S.W.
Washington, DC 20024-2422
(800) 368-5668
www.channelinn.com

Hotel Palomar Arlington

The Hotel Palomar can be found just across the Potomac River from Washington in nearby Northern Virginia. With over 150 rooms and suites, this boutique hotel provides a luxury experience at a lower price than what you'd find at a similar hotel in the heart of the city. The Hotel Palomar also has a 24-hour fitness center and a very pet-friendly policy, in case you plan to bring Fido along.

Hotel Palomar Arlington
1121 N. 19th St.
Arlington, VA 22209
(703) 351-9170
www.hotelpalomar-arlington.com

Article Written By Caroline Tung Richmond

A native of Washington, D.C., Caroline Tung Richmond has worked as a freelance writer since 2007. Her articles have appeared in both print and online publications such as the "Baltimore Sun," "Highlights" and Travels.com. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Brigham Young University.

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