One more suggestion and I apologize if it is a duplicate. If you’re planning to stay outside D.C. and drive in, Sat. and Sun. are the best days to find parking very close to the Mall. During weekdays, it’s a zoo there, as you can imagine.
On Sat. or Sun., if you drive into the city by 8 AM, you will have no problem finding free parking close to the major attractions.
The tidal basin and FDR Memorial are nice spots for a stroll and of course, as others have suggested, the WWII one.
I have a son who lives near Capital Hill, so am pretty familiar with all the angles. They have a teeny place, so we often stay at the Courtyard Marriott/Naval Yard which is nearby and offers decent rates off season. There will be cheaper places out of D.C., but consider the cost, time, and aggravation of driving and possibly parking if you can’t find free parking.
“One more suggestion and I apologize if it is a duplicate. If you’re planning to stay outside D.C. and drive in, Sat. and Sun. are the best days to find parking very close to the Mall. During weekdays, it’s a zoo there, as you can imagine.
“On Sat. or Sun., if you drive into the city by 8 AM, you will have no problem finding free parking close to the major attractions.”
My recommendation - don’t drive in. Go the Metro. Although likewise it is very busy at rush hours (2 hours), but better than driving. God forbid an accident happens.