Hotel Harrington

In a city that's packed with expensive options, the Hotel Harrington can be a decent value, though you'll be making some trade-offs. For starters, the style here is dated -- it seems to aim for historic and quaint and instead just looks old. A large open-plan lobby is sparsely furnished with few seating options, and lacking in atmosphere. Most guests won't spend much time here, though, as the prime location means exploring is the primary concern of those staying here. The hotel's bar is relatively well-liked by previous guests, and offers a locally-liked place to hang out between sightseeing, but otherwise features are few. Groups tend to stay here frequently, and noise can be an issue, though for the most part things are low-key and laid-back. Families pass through here frequently, though couples and even the occasional business traveler are hotel guests as well.

Located in the Penn Quarter, southeast of downtown D.C., the area has lots of attractions close at hand. Ford’s Theatre and Madam Tussauds Museum are a two-minute walk away, the Verizon Center can be reached within six minutes on foot, and the Convention Center is also just a five-minute walk from the hotel. For more ambitious walkers, The White House can be reached in 15 minutes on foot, or just six minutes by car or cab. The Smithsonian Museums of American Art and Natural History are a short 10-minute walk from the property, or three to four minutes by cab. Washington Reagan Airport is a 15-minute cab ride, depending on traffic, and driving to Union Station should take around 10 minutes. Budget up to an hour to reach Dulles Airport or BWI by car. 

The Harrington has 242 rooms over 11 floors, including rooms that can sleep up to five, which are ideal for families. The style certainly won't win any awards, as decor is dated. Expect details like patterned bedspreads, plain white walls hung with generic abstract art, industrial carpeting, and basic dark wood furniture. The exposed hanging racks loaded with cords and haphazardly arranged hangers -- which we saw during our visit -- only add to the less-than-charming effect. Standard features include flat-screen TV sets with free HBO, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi. Most rooms have mini-fridges, irons, and ironing boards, but if those items are missing they can be requested at reception. Children under 18 stay for free if using existing bedding. Bathrooms are also dated -- we spotted some wear and tear on fixtures and fittings -- and counter space is limited in most. They include shower/tub combos, basic toiletries, and hairdryers (in some units).

The Harrington is a no-frills hotel with just a few features, including a coin-operated laundry room and free Wi-Fi throughout. There's a gift shop on-site and free newspapers are available in the lobby each day. The hotel’s three restaurants offer a range of food, and Harry’s Pub is a highlight with previous guests for its atmosphere, drinks, and food. Harriet’s is open for breakfasts; Harry’s for lunches and evening meals; and Ollie’s Trolley offers fast food, like burgers, fries, and shakes. Breakfast isn't included in rates. On-site parking is available (for a fee).