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Before you go any further, make sure to read our post about Washington, DC Airbnb tips and questions to ask before you book. You want to make sure any Airbnb you sign up for is comfortable, safe and legal. If you decide Airbnb isn’t for you, that’s OK! We’ve got hotel recommendations too. And just so you know, this page includes affiliate links. Please read the Trip Hacks DC disclosure for more information.

With all of that said, there are 7 Washington, DC Airbnb options to consider for your August 2019 trip.

1. Sunny English basement near the Capitol

This is a Washington, DC Airbnb rental on Capitol Hill. It's a small basement studio near the Capitol, Library of Congress and Supreme court.
Credit: Edith on Airbnb
  • Neighborhood: Capitol Hill.
  • Why we like it: This is a great option for a traveling couple or solo traveler. English basements are partially below ground, so you still get some sunlight. This apartment has great ceiling lighting which helps brighten up an otherwise dark space. The location is perfect for visiting Capitol Hill sites like the Library of Congress, Supreme Court, and of course, Capitol.
  • Things to watch out for: This apartment has a window AC so if you’re used to central AC this could be a deal breaker. The apartment is also very small. Not necessarily smaller than a hotel room, but you have to be OK with sleeping steps from the stove.

2. Your own historic suite

This is a Washington, DC Airbnb rental in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood. They even have a DC Metro shower curtain!
Credit: Lea on Airbnb
  • Neighborhood: Foggy Bottom
  • Why we like it: This Washington, DC airbnb is a bustling neighborhood that’s great for visitors due to its proximity to the sites and Metro. You could walk to the White House, Lincoln Memorial and Georgetown from here. Plus they’ve got a Metro map shower curtain which shows they are serious about public transportation.
  • Things to watch out for: Because it’s in a bustling neighborhood, if you’re not used to the city and the noises that come along with it (sirens and honking) then you might find this location jarring.

3. Suite in a Georgetown row house

This is a Washington, DC Airbnb rental in the Georgetown neighborhood. Stay here if you want to experience the heart of Georgetown.
Credit: Jan on Airbnb
  • Neighborhood: Georgetown
  • Why we like it: Washington, DC visitors love Georgetown but there aren’t many options if you want to stay in the heart of the neighborhood. Most hotels with Georgetown in the name are located about a mile down the street. This basement studio is not the most glamorous but it makes up for it with the prime location.
  • Things to watch out for: This basement won’t get much natural light, which is probably OK for someone interested in seeing the sites rather than spending time in the room. There is a kitchen but with all the restaurants nearby you probably won’t want to use it.

4. The stately single family

This is a Washington, DC Airbnb rental in the Shaw neighborhood. Families will appreciate that it has 3 bedrooms and space to spread out.
Credit: Home Sweet City on Airbnb
  • Neighborhood: Shaw
  • Why we like it: Families will appreciate that this actual house has 3 bedrooms that can fit the parents and the kids. The nearby Shaw metro station can get everyone downtown to see the sites quickly and efficiently.
  • Things to watch out for: the Shaw area is known for nightlife, especially on the weekends. Families with kids likely won’t partake but it’s worth knowing what to expect in the neighborhood. 

5. Space for the whole big happy family

This is a Washington, DC Airbnb rental in Southwest Washington, DC. It's big enough for the whole family and close to the museums and National Mall.
Credit: Michael on Airbnb
  • Neighborhood: Southwest 
  • Why we like it: This 4 bedroom house has plenty of space for a big family. It’s not cheap, but compared to getting two or even three hotel rooms, it’s not a bad deal. Southwest is a fairly quiet neighborhood but it’s an easy walk to the National Mall, museums and Wharf. 
  • Things to watch out for: Washington, DC row houses are renovated many times during their lifetimes. This one doesn’t look like it’s the most up-to-date. Functionally, that’s not a problem, but if you’re looking for luxury accommodations, this probably isn’t it. 

6. A room with a river view

This is a Washington, DC Airbnb boat rental! Is there anything that says "summer" more than staying on a house boat?
Credit: B on Airbnb
  • Neighborhood: Various marinas around DC
  • Why we like it: It’s a boat! How often do you get to have the experience of spending the weekend out on the water. It’s the perfect summer thing to do.
  • Things to watch out for: It’s a boat. If you’re not up for an adventure or you get seasick then you should steer clear of this one. 

7. Urban cottage in Virginia

This is an Arlington, VA Airbnb rental. Sometimes it's nice to stay outside the city away from the hustle and bustle.
Credit: Stay BnB DC on Airbnb
  • Neighborhood: Clarendon (Arlington)
  • Why we like it: Sometimes you just want to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This cottage in Arlington is an escape from the city but close enough to walk to restaurants, Metro and just about everything you could need during a trip.
  • Things to watch out for: This property is managed by a big company, so expect more of a corporate experience rather than a personalized service you might get with a smaller host.