Washington DC vacation planning

Did you know that Washington DC is the second most visited city in the United States? In fact, only New York City welcomes more visitors. And after just one day strolling around this vibrant city, you’ll quickly understand why DC is a must-visit destination. As the epicenter of the country’s political universe and home to some of the United States’ most popular museums, landmarks and attractions, Washington DC always entertains.

DC deals: getting the best hotel discounts in Washington DC

What’s the best way for a travel planner to find cheap hotel deals in Washington DC? You can start by booking your hotel through the AARP® Travel Center powered by Expedia®. You’ll get the latest specials on Washington DC hotels and exclusive AARP discounts. And when you book your air, hotel and car rental together, you’ll save even more. 

Where to stay —Washington DC hotel specials

Looking for a hotel deals in Washington DC? The city offers a range of hotel options to choose from. Historical hotels. Upscale hotels. Boutique hotels. Affordable, family-friendly hotels. The first question you need to ask yourself is: where do you want to stay? If you’re looking for a hotel near the top attractions in Washington DC, then search in the Downtown, Capitol Hill or Foggy Bottom neighborhoods. Other districts that offer Washington DC hotel specials include Adams-Morgan, Dupont Circle, Georgetown and the Convention Center area. Whichever district you choose, be sure to book through the AARP Travel Center in order to get the best Washington DC hotel deals.

The Washington DC to-do list: The Capitol, White House and more

Monuments, memorials and mansions, oh my. Washington DC packs an abundance of attractions into its compact 67 square miles. A visit to Washington DC is a true citywide adventure filled with national treasures and historic landmarks. You can spend days visiting the attractions scattered around The National Mall. The White House. The Vietnam War Memorial. The U.S. Capitol. The Lincoln, Roosevelt, Jefferson and Washington memorials. These are just a few of the must-see landmarks to check off your DC to-do list. Be sure to call ahead if you want to tour popular attractions, like the White House and Capitol, because space books up months in advance. To find the best deals on tour and activities in Washington DC, visit the AARP Travel Center powered by Expedia.

Explore the many museums of Washington DC

If you are a museum buff, then Washington DC is your kind of town. Many of the city’s top museums are within easy walking distance of downtown Washington DC, with many of them bordering the National Mall. Popular museums include the National Museum of Natural History, Air & Space Museum, National Gallery and the Newseum, just to name a few. Plus, don’t miss a visit to the world-famous Smithsonian Castle. While most tourists associate the Smithsonian with its iconic National Mall edifice, the Smithsonian is actually a collection of 19 museums, nine research centers and the National Zoological Park. Ready to find a hotel deal near any of the Smithsonian’s top attractions? Book a cheap DC hotel at the AARP Travel Center.

Beyond downtown — discovering Georgetown, Adams-Morgan and Chinatown

Washington DC is more than just museums and landmarks. It’s also a city that knows how to wow travelers with an ever-changing array of shopping, dining and entertainment options. For designer boutiques, sophisticated galleries, hip restaurants and friendly bars, visit the nearby neighborhood of Georgetown. Head to Adams-Morgan for more eclectic dining and shopping options. For live music and nightlife, try Dupont Circle or U Street. If you’re in the mood for a more exotic experience, visit Chinatown, a compact neighborhood filled with shops and restaurants.

Washington DC vacation packages — book together and save

Did you know that booking a vacation package offers you the best way to save on your Washington DC vacation? Book your hotel, air and car rental together on the AARP Travel Center and you can save up to $500.