What are they hoping to see? For proximity to the Mall they could do the Hyatt Place, Residence Inn, or Holiday Inn near Federal center SW/L'enfant plaza, but if they are planning to have a car or they want to be close to good restaurants/nightlife or they want a luxury place with a spa and everything, I would make different suggestions.

I mean; there are a million choices. Past recommendations include the Mayflower, Omni Shoreham, Embassy Suites Georgetown (in the West End), and the aforementioned Marriott.

Marriott Metro Center is very central, clean and usually reasonable. Unless they are visiting in the next few weeks in which case all hotels will be crazy high.

Budget?

Friends are coming in from out of town and want to stay in DC. They’ve asked for suggestions as to what area to stay in. Thoughts?