Washington D.C. Great Values

Just off Dupont Circle near the trendy neighborhood of Adams Morgan, American Guest House is a cozy, clean, and efficient Bed and Breakfast with only twelve rooms. The concept is basic: classic décor (think old-fashioned, wooden staircases and the occasional fireplace), helpful staff, and a complimentary hot breakfast, plus a few extras like wireless internet and a refrigerator stocked with juice and yogurt for reasonable prices. The women who run the place are genuinely thoughtful and eager to help guests plan sightseeing adventures into the surrounding areas.

Smack in the center of Dupont Circle, this 99-room, zen-inspired hotel relaxes guests with its Eastern themed décor and in-room yoga channel. It is perfectly located for dining late and partying.

Just 2 miles from the White House and skirting the National Zoo, bedding down at this quaint B&B affords you free WiFi (with laptops on hand to borrow), gobs of good conversation and reading material (TVs are nonexistent), and a bountiful (complimentary) breakfast of homemade pastries, 12-fruit salad, and breads from the local farmer's market. All 16 individually decorated rooms feature antique wooden furnishings and ample sunlight; most have private bathrooms (though showers-only). Airport shuttles and taxis park just across the street for quick zipping downtown.

Set in two old-fashioned townhouses, this intimate charming hotel has original woodwork, marble floors, and 19th century artwork. The 41 rooms and 13 suites are decorated with custom-designed furniture and antiques.

In March 2008, the much-loved Thompson Hotels chain (best known for their New York and L.A. properties), debuted this 193-room boutique hotel in D.C. In just a short time, the hotel has earned rave reviews for its fashionable minimalist design and reasonable rates (rooms go for around $270 per night in peak season). Shades of eggplant and olive complement the dark wood-furnished interiors; cool in-room amenities include free WiFi, bath products by Kiehl's, and a Dean & Deluca-stocked minibar. Futuristic cocoon spiral showers grace queen superior rooms, and a rooftop pool provides aquatic entertainment with a view over the city. Conveniently located within walking distance of the White House (a leisurely 10-15 minutes on foot), it's an excellent midrange option for both business and leisure travelers.

A classic French bistro in the heart of Adams Morgan, La Fourchette is a popular locale for...more

Attentive Italian-style service, traditional pastas prepared al dente, and an intimate...more

• See Washington from a unique perspective aboard a 600-person ship operated by Spirit City Cruises. Lunch cruises are both physically and intellectually satisfying - during the 2-hour journey guests enjoy the upscale buffet of hearty American cuisine, while a guide points out historical landmarks, including the Washington Monument, General's Row, the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, and Jones Point Lighthouse.