Southwest Waterfront Travel Guide
Washington
Visit Southwest Waterfront
Popular places to visit
White House
Explore the home and workplace of the president of the United States. See entertainment areas and state rooms and learn about the history of this famous building.
National Mall
Inspiring architecture, magnificent museums and the icons of American history await on Washington’s famous two-mile (three-kilometer) strip.
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
During your trip, find out what's happening in Walter E. Washington Convention Center, a top convention centre in Washington. Add the area's notable monuments or shops to your travel plans.
Smithsonian Institution
Smithsonian Institution is a popular museum in Washington with a rich history. Discover the area's fascinating museums and notable monuments.
United States Capitol
Sitting on top of Capitol Hill is a Washington landmark that’s been the home of American democracy for more than 200 years.
MGM National Harbor Casino
Why not try your luck with a visit to MGM National Harbor Casino where you can enjoy the entertainment at this popular casino in National Harbor? Stroll along the area's waterfront or simply savour its lively bars.
Things to do
Washington DC Monuments & Highlights: Small-Group Electric Cart Tour
Arlington National Cemetery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Boat Cruise, National Mall, Tickets
US Capitol & Library of Congress Tour with Supreme Court, Senate
No-Wait Washington Monument Direct Entry Tickets & Guidebook
Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket
Top hotels in Southwest Waterfront
Washington Plaza Hotel
Nice
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Hamilton Hotel Washington DC
I went to 3 floors before finding an ice machine that worked. Horrible parking but luckily we had a spot right in front of the hotel. Small rooms. No refrigerator for personal use . But over all, comfy, fancy-like, perfect area. Nice front desk staff. Clean room. Awesome housekeeping staff.
Reviewed on 14 May 2026
The Watermark Hotel
I love this hotel! I always stay here when I come into town. The staff is great, and the included breakfast is even better. My room is always clean. The only issue I had was the water pressure in the shower, it was very low this visit. I’m not sure if it was just the shower spout in this room, or ...
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
Arlo Washington DC
Property clean room decent No parking on site $25/ day with parking deck across the street.
Reviewed on 13 May 2026
The Bethesdan Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Yes the room, the hotel and the gym was great
Reviewed on 10 May 2026
Motto by Hilton Washington DC Downtown
The room was very small. The cleaners took my charger thinking I checked out early. Parking was $60 a night in the closest garage. The front desk told me it was $20. No complementary breakfast.
Reviewed on 14 May 2026
Check Southwest Waterfront hotel availability
Other neighbourhoods around Southwest Waterfront
The Wharf
You'll enjoy the restaurants and riverfront in The Wharf. You might want to make time for a stop at The Anthem or Gangplank Marina.
Southwest Federal Center
While you're in Southwest Federal Center, take in top sights like Smithsonian Institution or L'Enfant Plaza, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at L'Enfant Plaza Station or Federal Center Station.
Southwest
Known for its fascinating museums and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Southwest. Check out top attractions like Smithsonian Institution and United States Capitol, and jump on the metro at Waterfront Station or L'Enfant Plaza Station to see more of the city.
Navy Yard
While you're in Navy Yard, take in top sights like Nationals Park and jump on the metro at Navy Yard Station to see more of the city.
Capitol Hill
Known for its fascinating museums and important monuments, there's plenty to explore in Capitol Hill. Check out top attractions like United States Capitol and Folger Shakespeare Library, and jump on the metro at Capitol South Station or Eastern Market Station to see more of the city.
Southeast
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Southeast. Spend some time visiting top spots like Nationals Park, and catch the metro at Potomac Ave Station or Eastern Market Station to see more of the area.
