Courtyard Washington, DC/Foggy Bottom

This Courtyard has been open since 2012, and the decor throughout the spacious lobby, bar, restaurant and outdoor terrace is pleasantly modern. Located in the sleep Foggy Bottom neighborhood means that the surrounding streets are quiet, and visitors looking for nightlife and shopping must go farther afield. There’s a charming outdoor patio -- we love the fire pit for cooler nights --and a bar and bistro, which are open for lunches and evenings meals. Like most outposts in this chain, this isn't a hotel where you'll be spending time indulging in the on-site facilities, and is instead best for those who will be out exploring or doing business most of the day. Given the location and the quiet and relaxed atmosphere, it’s unsurprising that couples and business travelers are common guests. The occasional family also passes through, particularly when students are moving in and out of nearby George Washington University (making it hard to score a room at those times of year). 

Being located in the sleepy Foggy Bottom neighborhood means that the property escapes the noise in other parts of D.C. However, it's still within a relatively easy walk of plenty of sights. George Washington University is a couple of blocks away, making this a handy spot for families with college students. The National Mall and the White House are both only a 10-minute walk away, while the Lincoln Memorial is 15 minutes away on foot. It's a bit farther to the Washington Monument (18 minutes). The hotel is located close to public transport links, as well. It's a three-minute walk to the 19th Street bus station and 10 minutes on foot from Farragut West Metro station. Ronald Reagan International is a 10-minute car or cab ride away, and an airport bus -- which is available at 15-minute intervals during the day -- goes right past the hotel lobby. Dulles Airport will take around 40 minutes to reach by car, depending on traffic.

The hotel has 147 rooms and several suites, with pleasantly modern decor that includes neutral painted and wallpapered walls, mid-tone wood fitted furniture, and homey seating in soft pink hues. It's a proper, buttoned-up look, with landscape photography complementing the sage-green accent walls. Rooms have city views and several have balconies, but all are similar in style and features, with mini-fridges, coffeemakers, flat-screen TVs, air-conditioning, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Some larger units have additional beds and sofa beds to accommodate larger groups. Bathrooms continue the classic style, and have tiled bath and shower surrounds and quality tile floors. Some units have separate shower cubicles, though granite counter space is limited. Hairdryers and toiletries are provided. Rooms are exceptionally quiet and clean, a blessing given the city-center location.

The hotel packs in a decent number of features, helping to make it a great mid-range pick. The modern and spacious lobby provides space for reading or relaxing, and the bar/bistro are spacious and charming. The outdoor patio with fire-pit is a highlight and is a peaceful escape for dining and drinking. There’s a simple fitness center with free weights and cardio machines, an indoor swimming pool, and a business center on-site. A snack bar and deli offers breakfast, drinks and a range of snacks is available here or from vending machines located in the lobby area. Breakfast is not included in the rate, but can be ordered and eaten in the bistro. Public parking is available on site, but comes at cost, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.