21 Unique Airbnb Rentals to Book Now in Washington DC

Washington D.C. has a little something for everyone. It’s lathered in politics, knee deep in history, and boasts museums and monuments that rival most of the world. Finding a D.C. short term place to stay when you visit can be a little overwhelming. We’ve taken the guess work out of choosing your next Washington D.C. Airbnb rental in the United States.

What to look for in a Washington, D.C. Airbnb

We all have our preferences, but when it comes to Washington, D.C. hotels and Airbnb, you need to remember one thing– parking is not cheap and free parking is hard to come by in the city.

When you are looking at Airbnbs, check which ones come with parking, either on the street, in a driveway or the host will give you a parking permit. The last thing you want to do is get a parking ticket when you are on vacation in D.C. or on a business trip.

Other things to consider:

• Good Wi-Fi
• Kitchen Access
• Bed configurations (one full bed might not work for a couple over six-feet tall)
• Super Hosts: always a good idea to rent a place with a good reputation!
• Airbnb Reviews: are they all bad or just some nit-picky people?
• Travel crib (if needed)

Cozy Couples Retreats with Character

If you are visiting D.C. solo or with your beau, these cute and cozy Washington D.C. Airbnb rentals are perfect for you. Each is conveniently located, and highly recommended by past guests. A

nd yes, they have Wi-fi, are near great restaurants and most are close to a metro stop. We love these so much, we might have to book a little D.C. staycation again soon.

“The Hideaway” Private Apartment near the metro

The aptly named “Hideaway” is a converted garage that’s chock full of eclectic character.

This 1920’s style studio has its own en suite bathroom and is close to the metro (yellow/green lines), just two blocks away. The studio apartment has a double bed and kitchenette, comes with a parking pass so you can part your car for free, and the rental is accessed via private entrance.

A television with Amazon Prime access and local TV stations makes it easy to cozy up with a movie after a long day exploring. Guests have access to a washer and dryer and free Wi-Fi too.

• Location: Columbia Heights
• Price: $65. Book here.

The Garden Suite

Escape the hustle and bustle of the nation’s capitol with this lush hideaway. This private and independent garden suite has been lovingly restored with an abundance of character.

Internet access makes it easy to work while you travel, and catch up with friends. The location is great, as you can walk to Union Market, the DC Convention Center, Howard University and more great spots around the neighborhood of Bloomingdale in the eastern part of DC.

The living space extends outside into the garden courtyard, where you have a private entrance into this studio apartment. Free Wi-Fi and a kitchenette are included in the space.

• Location: Bloomingdale
• Price: $115. Book here.

The Capitol Hill Carriage House

This comfortable home away from home is only two blocks from the U.S. Capitol, Supreme Court, and the Library of Congress. A short walk away is the National Mall and an array of museums and monuments.

You are just a block from the Capitol South Metro station, so you can zip off to explore Dupont Circle, Georgetown and other spots across D.C.

When you’re ready to relax, kick back in this light and airy private apartment in an old carriage house. The outside may look rustic, but the inside has been lovingly restored.

Your Washington, D.C. Airbnb includes a queen-sized bed, and separate living room when you want to relax or get work done in peace and quiet.

• Location: Southeast Washington
• Price: $99. Book here.

Charming Row House Near Everything

This quaint basement apartment is just one and a half blocks from the Shaw/Howard U. Metro, giving you access to the entire city in minutes.

You are within walking distance to several bars, restaurants, the Convention Center and Chinatown, and five metro stops from all of the D.C. attractions.

There is one queen-sized bed in the bedroom, a fireplace, free street parking, full kitchen, and even a tub in the bathroom. Sign us up! We are booking ASAP.

• Location: Shaw/Howard
• Price: $78. Book here.

Family Friendly D.C. Home Rentals

If you plan on traveling to Washington D.C. with kids, check out these family-friendly Washington, D.C. Airbnb home and apartment rentals that are sure to have something for everyone.

We’ve picked out properties with great hosts, enough space to spread out and close to many of the city’s top attractions.

When you are in D.C. traveling with kids, you need to make sure the metro, restaurants, a grocery story and attractions are close by for easy access. No one wants whiny kids at the end of the day who are tired from walking nonstop.

Bright and Colorful two bedroom apartment

This is a modern, yet cozy and charming apartment located at the heart of the trendiest neighborhood in the district. It is located steps away from M Street near Georgetown. You will be walking distance from historic gardens, museums, and some of D.C.s best upmarket restaurants, taverns and coffee shops.

Plus, the apartment comes with a foosball table and arcade games that are sure to keep the kiddos entertained when you just need a break from exploring.

Best of all, this Airbnb comes with free parking onsite, a luxury in the Nation’s Capital.

One room has a queen bed, while you can set up the two twin inflatable mattress in the second room. A full kitchen, dining room and balcony give you extra space to spread out when you have the kids or friends in tow.

• Location: Northwest Washington
• Price: $97. Book here.

Modern and Vibrant Bohemian Home rental

Come prepared to relax and take a stroll around the world in this cozy, beautifully vibrant, newly renovated single family home. Each of the four bedrooms are decorated to depict a different continent.

This is the perfect stay for both city and nature lovers as its easily accessible to the downtown area and also walking distance to nearby nature parks. The U.S. National Arboretum is just around the corner, and Union Market is too much farther west.

You have access to the entire house, including kitchen, Wi-Fi, washer/dryer, grill and free parking.

• Location: Kenilworth
• Price: $100. Book here.

Perfect for large groups

If you’re going to be traveling to D.C. with a large group and want to ensure that there’s space for everyone, be sure to check out these spacious Washington, D.C. Airbnb rentals across the city.

We’ve checked out both luxury and budget (clean and comfortable) accommodations. You, your family, friends and colleagues will love sleeping in these perfectly large spots when you come to D.C.

Just remember, many Airbnb owners do not allow bachelor or bachelorette parties. Read all of the booking details before you book a DC Airbnb for your next party or event.

Stay in a Historic D.C. Firehouse

Located in the Shaw neighborhood, one of DC’s most hip, slick and cool areas, The Firehouse on R housed the first fully African American Fire company in Washington D.C.

Built in 1884 and fully renovated in 2017 by a world famous interior designer and TV celebrity, the Firehouse merges exposed architectural beauty with historic photography and modern amenities/design.

This unique space boasts five bedrooms and can comfortably sleep up to fourteen people. Roughly 3000 square feet are all yours to enjoy, as well as two parking spaces for cars.

There are two washers and dryers on site if you need to do a spot of laundry. Bedrooms come with queen-sized beds in each room, plus a toddler bed in one room and twin beds another.

A lockbox, travel crib and full kitchen make this the perfect spot for extended family to share or work colleagues to bunk together while in town.

• Location: Shaw Neighborhood
• Price: $800. Book here.

Spacious 4 bedroom home with rooftop deck

Welcome to your new home away from home! This beautiful, modern and luxurious large house is in the heart of the city’s Shaw/Bloomingdale neighborhood and minutes to U Street.

The house has 4 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, free off-street parking, modern amenities, two balconies and an amazing rooftop deck with fantastic city views including a view of the Washington Monument! This is the perfect D.C. rental to split with another family or have to yourselves.

You will be close to the National Arboretum, Union Market, Howard University, Catholic University, and tons of restaurants. Bedrooms feature queen-sized beds and full-sized beds, giving you plenty of space and privacy from other friends and family traveling into the DC area.

A full kitchen allows you to make meals together or whip up a little cheese board to enjoy on the rooftop deck.

Guests have access to the top three floors; a tenant is in the basement.

• Location: Bloomingdale
• Price: $99. Book here.

More DC Airbnb properties to rent

• Former Auto Body Shop Now Stunning 3 BR 3 Bath
• Union Market Penthouse Apartment
• Waterborne adventure- Floating Home
• Tiny House Hideaway | 3 blocks to Capitol
• Ingraham Alley Inn – A Quiet & Cozy Micro House
• Superb, Designed, Historic House in Georgetown
• Expansive Light-Filled Home With Garage and Outdoor Parking
• Luxury DuPont Duplex/Anna Maria Residences 502
• Soak up the Period Charm of a Grand Victorian Home
• Upscale DC Getaway Home
• Union Market Garden Apartment
• Large Cozy Brownstone House near the Convention Center
• Bright, Relaxed Apartment in the Heart of DC
• Luxury Suite in the Heart of Capitol Hill
• Spacious Apartment in Historical Rowhouse
• Shaw Garden House
• The Wright House in Washington’s Trendy Mount Vernon Square
• City Chic, A Walkable Capitol Hill Retreat
• Private Capitol Hill 1 Bedroom Apt w/ Parking
• 1 BR Zen Penthouse
• Contemporary Condo in Shaw/U Street
• English-Style Basement Apartment in a Historic Row House
• Sun-Drenched Luxury Dupont Circle Apartment
• Historic rowhome in D.C.
• Eastern Market/Capitol Hill Apartment w/ parking
• Cool Columbia Heights Garden Apt.

This post was published by Keryn Means, a Washington DC travel expert, and the editor and publisher of DC Travel Magazine. Our articles may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of those links we will receive a small commission.

Washington, D.C. Travel Resources

Your Washington, D.C. vacation doesn’t have to be stressful. We’ve got the resources you need to plan your trip and make the most out of your time in the city and surrounding area. If this is your first time to the capital region, check out our Washington, D.C. trip planner and itineraries.

For transportation, check out our D.C. driving guide and our guide on how to ride the metro. For those flying in, you’ll want to read our guides to BWI, DCA and IAD airports.

Dive into our things to do in D.C., which is always being updated and evolving to make sure you have the latest and greatest activities to fill your checklist of things to do. Don’t forget about food, the real reason we all travel, right? Our Washington, D.C. restaurant guide will get you started and lead you into neighborhoods full of delicious treats.

For more resources, check out our pages on Baltimore, Frederick, Richmond, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Shenandoah National Park and beyond.

Where to Stay in Washington, D.C.

Budget: When it comes to Washington, D.C. budget hotels, prices vary depending on the season. In the middle of October, a four-star hotel could be under $150, while in December it may be over $400. At any given time of year, though, Hotel Hive is a safe bet for value when it comes to resting your head. If you are looking for a hostel, Hi Washington D.C. Downtown is well located for exploring all of the D.C. museums, restaurants and bars at the fraction of the price of a hotel. Check rates and availability here.

Mid-range: Every USA hotel chain can be found in Washington, D.C., but stay at the St. Gregory Hotel when you want a local touch. The modern, light-filled rooms will welcome you to the city, whether you are in a studio or suite with wraparound terrace. The hotel is walking distance to Georgetown, the National Mall and Embassy Row, making it easy to explore without a rental car. Check rates and availability here.

Luxury: You are spoiled for choice when it comes to luxury hotels in Washington, D.C. We love cozying up at the Graham Georgetown, a sweet little boutique hotel in one of the hottest neighborhoods in the city. Check rates and availability here. Major hotel brands like The Fairmont, Mandarin Oriental, Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C. and St. Regis Washington D.C. all have outposts here as well. If you want something a bit more historic, we recommend The Jefferson, Washington D.C. Ninety-nine rooms in this luxury boutique hotel bring together an attentive staff, petite spa, and the Michelin-starred Plume restaurant with all of the history you could hope for when you are in the nation’s capital. Check rates and availability here.

Family-friendly: We always gravitate towards the Kimpton hotels whenever we are traveling with kids. Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington D.C., once the General Post Office building, is located in the Penn Quarter neighborhood just four blocks off the National Mall near the National Gallery of Art. Price point is mid-range, depending on the time of year you visit. Parents will love the nightly wine events and evening nightcap perks as well as complimentary coffee and a tea bar each morning. Kids will love that they can borrow a fish friend for their stay, and that there is always a treat on hand that they can enjoy, and the robes are just their size. Kimpton also has adult and child-size bikes to borrow so you can cruise around town during your stay. Check rates and availability here.

Looking for Washington DC Rentals? Check HERE for the best location, size and rates.

Washington DC Rental Car

If you just flew in , you probably need a rental car. Although you can certainly take the Metro most places, especially if you fly into DCA, you may want a rental car to get out and explore. Find the best priced and availability HERE.

Planning a Trip to Washington, D.C.? Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

Whether you are traveling domestically or coming from an international destination, travel insurance is a must for anyone coming to Washington, D.C. You will be exploring both inside and outdoors; hiking may even happen if you get adventurous. You could find yourself on a Segway or bike tour. The city is highly populated and accidents and crime do happen. This is not to scare you, but to prepare you for what could occur when you are checking out the free museums, exploring neighborhoods, finding the best food and learning about the local street art. Should something happen, travel insurance has you covered.

We recommend and use Allianz Travel insurance. Our family is covered under a household plan, but their individual plans are just as robust if you are a solo traveler or a couple looking to get away. I’ve been a customer for more than five years and have always been in good hands with the Allianz team.

This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of those links we will receive a small commission.