If you are traveling to the United States, there’s a good chance that Washington DC is high on your list. And deservingly so!
America’s political center and historical background in one city, not to mention an amazing food scene and world class nightlife.
But traveling to Washington DC isn’t cheap, and there aren’t many hostels available. Which is exactly why we have put together this list of the best hostels in Washington DC.
With the help of this guide, you’ll know exactly which hostel in Washington DC fits your travel style, so you can book it quickly.
And you’ll wanna book quickly! Washington DC only has a limited amount of hostels, so if you are traveling here on a budget, the only way to do so is to book as hostel and to book a hostel ASAP.
Written by travelers, for travelers, our no stress guide to the best hostels in Washington DC is designed to help you book an awesome hostel, and quickly, so you can focus on exploring this amazing capital city.
Quick answer: The Best Hostels in Washington DC
- Overall Best Hostel in Washington DC – Duo Housing DC
- Best Party Hostel in Washington DC – HighRoad Hostel DC
How we chose the best hostels in Washington DC
Simply put – Washington DC is freaking cool. If you are visiting the US, then you should swing by the capital.
The rich history and politically charged environment gives it a very unique feel, and many travelers end up staying longer than they first thought.
Because of this high demand, it’s best to have your accommodation booked as far ahead of time as possible.
With the help of this ultimate guide, you’ll know Where to Stay in Washington D.C. and which of these hostels fits your travel-needs.
This is because we…
- Only take the highest-reviewed hostels in Washington DC
- We THEN organize the best hostels in Washington DC by different travel needs.
This is because we understand that everyone travels differently. Some travelers like to party late. Other travelers like to sleep late. Some people travel as a couple, others travel alone. Whatever your travel agenda may be, our ultimate list to the top hostels in Washington DC has got you covered.
The 10 Best Hostels in Washington DC
Hostels in the US are a mixed bunch. But we’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to, splitting the hostel choices into different types so you can see where you would feel most at home. Looking for the best hostel for solo travellers in Washington DC? Want the cheapest hostel in Washington DC?
Whatever you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered!
Duo Housing DC – Overall Best Hostel in Washington DC
Our pick for the overall best hostel in Washington DC in 2024, Duo Housing DC has tons of fab freebies. Like free breakfast, tea and coffee, Wi-Fi, fun events, maps, lockers, and use of computers. Meet other people in the kitchen, on the patio, and in the social room, which has a TV and Wii. There’s a separate quieter common room too if you want some peace and calm. Got the munchies? The well-stocked vending machines will sort you out. This top hostel in Washington DC is sociable and the staff members are super friendly. Do note that there is an age limit of 18—no kids! The mixed dorms sleep from four to 12 people.
Duo Nomad – Best Cheap Hostel in Washington DC #2
A top hostel in Washington DC, Duo Nomad is located just a short stroll from the US Capitol. The youthful hostel is a great place to meet new people, with a large lounge, complete with cable TV, and a well-equipped kitchen. There’s a quiet common room too, ideal if you want to read, work, study, or simply think. Grab a free tea or coffee at any time and tuck into a free breakfast each morning. Reception is staffed around the clock and there’s 27-hour security.
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View on Osprey View on REIHighRoad Hostel DC – Best Party Hostel in Washington DC
HighRoad Hostel DC is the best party hostel in Washington DC. It’s located in Adams Morgan, an area known for its numerous lively bars. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants close to hand too for some pre-drinks and food. You can cook up your own favourite dishes without going outside, though, if you prefer—the hostel has a well-equipped kitchen. There may very well be a communal dinner during your stay too. If you just fancy chilling at this youth hostel in Washington DC, head to the cosy common room and curl up in front of the fireplace. Breakfast and Wi-Fi are free.
Washington DC may not have heaps of hostels but there are great hotels as well, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re counting the dimes, want a middle-of-the-road accommodation, or want to splurge on somewhere fancy, here are three top hotels in Washington DC that may just tempt you.
Ivy City Hotel – Best Budget Hotel in Washington DC
Each room at the Ivy City Hotel has a private bathroom, a TV, free Wi-Fi, a desk, and a fridge. Sound-proofing and air conditioning help you to have a comfortable night’s sleep. Rooms have a timeless class and the prices are affordable. Double and king-size rooms are available.
The Georgetown House Boutique Inn – Best Mid-Range Hotel in Washington DC
The Georgetown House Boutique Inn is a charming Washington DC Hotel that’s housed in a historic building. Like in a hostel, there’s a shared kitchen where you can help yourself to free tea, coffee, and orange juice. All rooms are en-suite and have a TV, Wi-Fi, hairdryer, and air conditioning, and some rooms also have a separate seating area.
Kimpton Glover Park Hotel – Best Splurge Hotel in Washington DC
Kimpton Glover Park Hotel is a pet-friendly property in Washington DC. Loaded with great facilities, you can dine in two onsite restaurants and workout in the modern fitness centre. There’s a business centre too along with free Wi-Fi. The stylish rooms are all en-suite. Other room facilities include a wardrobe, fridge, seating area, and TV. There’s an elevator in the hotel and daily housekeeping services keep everywhere looking nice.
Hilltop Hostel – Best Hostel for Solo Travelers in Washington DC
Hilltop Hostel is our choice for the best hostel in Washington DC for solo travellers. It’s also the coolest hostel in Washington DC! You’ll meet heaps of cool people staying here and there are regular BBQs, shared meals, and jamming sessions. Holiday parties here are also tons of fun. The hostel is housed in a period home with plenty of charm yet with modern amenities. There’s a TV room and you can challenge your new pals to a poker game, pool tournament, or foosball playoff. Alternatively, grab a book and laze in a hammock outside in the yard.
As well as mixed and female-only dorms and twin and double rooms, this awesome Washington DC backpackers hostel offers something a bit different to the norm – an area where you can pitch your own tent and sleep outdoors.
City House Hostel Washington DC – Best Cheap Hostel in Washington DC #1
City House Hostel Washington DC is the cheapest hostel in Washington DC. There are mixed dorms and private twin rooms, as well as areas to chillax and a kitchen. For fun and entertainment, the hostel has a TV, Wii, Xbox 360, board games, books, and Wi-Fi, and there are regular movie nights too. Free tea and coffee is available in the kitchen. The friendly members of staff are a great source of local knowledge to help you make the most of your stay in Washington DC.
Capital View – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Washington DC
With fast and free Wi-Fi, free-to-use computers, and a choice of places to sit and work, Capital View is the best hostel for digital nomads in Washington DC. Looking to network while in DC? There are meeting rooms right here. When you’re finished with work, head out to the terrace for a BBQ or cook up a feast in the spacious kitchen. Unwind and meet other travellers in the lounge, which has a TV and foosball. There are private twin rooms as well as mixed and single-sex dorms.
HI Washington DC – Best Hostel with a Private Room in Washington DC
The award-winning and eco-friendly HI Washington DC is a recommended hostel in Washington DC, a place where you can meet other travellers, socialise, and chill. There are comfortable and clean single-sex and mixed dorms in various sizes and private twin rooms. Bathrooms are single sex. The top-notch facilities and amenities include a comfy common room with pay-to-use internet stations, a TV room, a patio, a kitchen, and laundry facilities. There’s an elevator to save your legs. Freebies at this Washington DC backpackers hostel include breakfast, Wi-Fi, lockers, toiletries, maps, and a pool table.
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Hide Yo’ Money!What to Pack for your Washington DC Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
Why you should travel to Washington DC
There’s the list! With the help of this guide, you’ll have a really good idea of which of the best hostels in Washington DC best suits you, so you can book quickly and save some money while in the District of Colombia!
Remember, don’t wait too long… hostels and budget hotels fill up quickly in the American capitol.
And if you are having a difficult time picking one hostel, just go with Duo Housing DC. Its great price, stellar reviews, and tons of freebies make it our top hostel in Washington DC for 2024.
FAQ about Hostels in Washington DC
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Washington DC.
How much does a hostel cost in Washington DC?
The average price of hostels in Washington DC can range from $34 – $56+ per night. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
What are the best hostels in Washington DC for couples?
HighRoad Washington DC is a highly-rated hostel for couples in Washington DC. It has comfortable private rooms and a well-equipped kitchen.
What is the best hostel in Washington DC near the airport?
Duo Housing DC, our overall best hostel in Washington DC, is a 12-minute taxi ride from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. It has tons of fab freebies like free breakfast, tea and coffee, Wi-Fi, fun events, maps, lockers, and the use of computers.
Travel Safety Tips for Washington DC
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More Epic Hostels in USA and North America
Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Washington DC.
Planning an epic trip all across USA or even North America itself?
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
For more cool hostel guides around North America, check out:
Over to you
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Washington DC has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Washington DC for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Washington DC covered.
- Check out the best places to stay in Washington DC before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for USA to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate USA backpacking guide.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
