Exploring Washington DC's iconic landmarks becomes even more delightful with the right hotel near the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. After researching dozens of properties, I've found accommodations that put you steps from dinosaur fossils and the National Mall's sprawling green spaces. I've compiled a list of 15 exceptional hotels that offer the perfect balance of location and comfort. From analyzing guest feedback, these properties provide easy museum access while featuring amenities that enhance your capital experience, whether you're traveling for education or pleasure.
Sort:
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue NW | 0.2 mi (0.4km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC offers luxurious rooms with city views just steps from the Natural History Museum, White House, and National Mall. Guests enjoy priority spa appointments in the 10,000 sq. ft. wellness center and elegant dining at Peacock Alley restaurant.
900 F Street Northwest | 0.4 mi (0.7km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Housed in a historic bank building, The Riggs Washington DC combines elegant design with exceptional service just steps from the Natural History Museum. The stylish rooms feature city views of Penn Quarter, smart TVs, and free WiFi throughout the property. Guests can enjoy creative cocktails in the original bank vault at Silver Lyan, savor all-American cuisine at Café Riggs, or host events in the rooftop space.
700 F Street NW | 0.4 mi (0.7km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Just steps from the National Portrait Gallery, Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC combines historic charm with modern luxury in an ideal location near the Natural History Museum. The stylish property features the edgy Dirty Habit restaurant with its dramatic urban patio, while guest rooms offer thoughtful amenities including bathrobes and select spa baths.
1331 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest | 0.5 mi (0.8km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Just 650 meters from the White House and close to the Natural History Museum, JW Marriott Washington, DC offers modern rooms with premium bedding and 24/7 room service. Guests enjoy convenient amenities including an on-site fitness center, American dining at Avenue Grill, and an in-house Starbucks.
1401 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest | 0.5 mi (0.8km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
The historic Willard InterContinental offers elegant rooms with flat-screen TVs on Pennsylvania Avenue, just steps from the White House. Guests enjoy authentic French cuisine at Café du Parc, 24-hour fitness center with sauna, and prime access to the Natural History Museum and Metro Center station.
550 C Street Southwest | 0.5 mi (0.8km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Just one block from the Smithsonian museums, Holiday Inn Washington Capitol-National Mall offers 24-hour fitness facilities with an outdoor pool and on-site dining options including Capitol Bistro and Starbucks. The prime location puts the United States Capitol Building, White House, and Washington Monument all within easy walking distance.
515 15th Street NW | 0.5 mi (0.8km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Located just 1 km from the Washington Monument, Hotel Washington combines convenient access to top attractions with thoughtful amenities including a fitness center, restaurant, and bar. The air-conditioned rooms feature desks, coffee machines, and flat-screen TVs, while multilingual 24-hour staff ensure seamless service for guests exploring nearby National Mall and museums.
480 L'Enfant Plaza SW | 0.5 mi (0.9km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Experience exceptional comfort at this LEED Silver-certified hotel with a rooftop pool and direct Metro access. Just one mile from the Smithsonian's Natural History Museum, Hilton Washington DC National Mall offers elegant rooms with high thread-count linens and a contemporary bistro serving hand-crafted cocktails.
775 12th Street Northwest | 0.6 mi (0.9km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Located just blocks from the Natural History Museum and Metro Center Station, Washington Marriott offers spacious rooms with luxury bedding and marble bathrooms. Guests enjoy a 24-hour fitness center, heated indoor pool, and prime access to D.C.'s monuments, dining, and attractions.
1000 H St NW | 0.6 mi (0.9km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Ideally located just 200 meters from Metro Center station and 1.2 km from The Smithsonian, Grand Hyatt Washington combines convenience with comfort. Guests enjoy free WiFi throughout, well-appointed rooms with flat-screen TVs, an on-site restaurant and bar, plus complimentary fitness center access.
1330 Maryland Avenue Southwest | 0.6 mi (0.9km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Perfectly situated near the National Mall, Salamander Washington DC offers luxury rooms with soaking tubs and city views. The hotel boasts a full-service spa with indoor pool, plus easy walking access to the Natural History Museum and monuments.
550 School Street Southwest | 0.6 mi (1km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Located just 500 meters from the Smithsonian museums, citizenM Washington DC Capitol combines tech-savvy rooms with iPad controls and a vibrant rooftop bar. The sleek 4-star property offers allergy-free accommodations, free high-speed WiFi, and a hot breakfast buffet with local treats and vegetarian options.
627-631 H Street Northwest | 0.6 mi (1km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Perfectly positioned across from the Natural History Museum, Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center offers smart, efficient rooms with 50-inch TVs and streaming capabilities. The urban micro-hotel features a restaurant, bar, and 24-hour front desk, all within walking distance to the National Mall, White House, and Washington Convention Center.
950 New York Ave. NW | 0.7 mi (1.1km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Ideally located just two blocks from the Washington Convention Center, Conrad Washington DC pairs luxurious guestrooms featuring city views and espresso machines with exceptional dining options. The rooftop Summit bar provides stunning monument views, while the seafood restaurant Estuary and prime positioning near CityCenter's shopping make this a perfect Natural History Museum-area choice.
500 H Street NW | 0.7 mi (1.1km) to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Located in Washington D.C.'s vibrant Chinatown, Fairfield Inn & Suites offers complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and comfortable rooms with flat-screen TVs. Just a 5-minute drive from the Natural History Museum and a 3-minute walk to Capital One Arena, this centrally-positioned Marriott property provides 24-hour front desk service and convenient on-site dining options.
Dan, a digital nomad with 10+ years of experience, has traveled to 55+ countries, sharing expert tips to help others find the best places to stay.
Please note that we earn a commission when you book through our affiliate links. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps us continue to grow our business. Thank you for being a part of our journey.
Post was updated on June 17, 2025
Did you stay at one of the hotels listed here? We always appreciate hearing from our customers. If you would like to connect with us and share your experience, please feel free to reach out to us directly. right here.