Visiting Washington DC can be an exciting and enriching experience, but finding convenient and affordable parking can be a challenge. From street parking to garages and public transit, here’s what you need to know to park like a pro in the nation’s capital.
- Where to find On-Street Parking in DC?
- How and where: Finding parking garages in DC
- Where to park for free in DC?
- How do I use Park & Ride in DC?
- Other FAQs
Where to find on-street Parking in DC?
In short, some popular areas to find on-street parking in DC are:
- U Street Corridor
- Adams Morgan
- Capitol Hill
- Georgetown
- Dupont Circle
In terms of where to park in the City, on-street parking is one of the most common and convenient options. However, it is also one of the most heavily regulated, and availability varies by neighborhood and time of day. Once you pick up your rental car at one of our Washington DC SIXT branches, you will find on-street parking available throughout the city.
How and where: Finding parking garages in Washington DC
Washington DC has plenty of parking garages located in various parts of the city, usually near popular tourist attractions, shopping centers, and restaurants. One way to find and reserve parking spots in DC is through ParkWhiz or SpotHero. These apps allow users to search for available parking garages and lots in real time, compare prices, and reserve a spot in advance.
If you want to know where to find parking garages, be sure to filter your search results by location, price, and other criteria. There are over 50 parking garages in downtown DC alone. Garages in DC can cost anywhere from $10 to $40 per day, depending on the location, time of day, and length of stay.
Where to find free parking in DC
Finding free parking in DC is easy if you know where to look and are patient enough. One place to look is in the residential neighborhoods outside the central business district. Be sure to check the posted parking signs for any restrictions, as some residential neighborhoods in DC have time-limited parking or residential permit parking.
Another option for free parking is to use an app like SpotAngels. The app shows you a map of the neighborhood, parking signs, and time limits, so you can see where to park your vehicle for free without worrying about getting ticketed.
If you are going to rent a luxury car with SIXT, you should check for hotels in DC that offer free parking, to secure an extra safe and supervised space. One of the hotels in Washington DC that offers free parking is the Americana Hotel and another option is the Holiday Inn Washington-Central/White House.
Using Park & Ride in Washington DC
The Park & Ride system in Washington is perfect for those who want to avoid the hassle of driving in metropolitan areas. This transportation solution allows you to park your car in one location, and then take a shuttle or train to your desired destination in the city. When using Park & Ride make sure you check:
- For time restrictions
- For fees, as some lots may require you to pay for parking.
Some of the best Park & Ride locations in DC are located at various bus terminals and Metro stations across the city. These include the Franconia-Springfield station, the Greenbelt station, and the Shady Grove station. Next, park your car in the designated area and make your way to the shuttle or train platform.
Other FAQs
Is parking in DC difficult?
Yes, parking in DC can be a difficult task due to narrow streets, limited parking spaces, and traffic congestion. However, there are still many ways to help you find a parking spot. One of the most effective ways is to use public transportation, including the Metro, bus, and streetcar systems.
In addition, using a parking app such as SpotHero or ParkWhiz can help you plan ahead and find available parking spots in advance. Another great option is to purchase a ParkingPass which offers online parking reservations at various locations in DC, eliminating the need to search for parking spots yourself.
Finally, it’s important to be patient and flexible in your search for parking, especially in high-demand areas. By utilizing these strategies, parking in DC can be a manageable task.
How much does it cost to park a car in DC?
The cost of parking in Washington DC depends on the location, the time of day, and the type of parking:
- If you’re parking in the central downtown area, expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $20 per hour for street or garage parking.
- Some popular tourist areas may even charge up to $30 per hour for parking.
- Overnight parking fees can add up quickly too, with some garages charging $50 or more for a 24-hour period.
Is parking free on Sundays in Washington?
Yes, parking is free on Sundays, including metered parking spots and residential parking zones. This policy encourages people to go out and explore the city on Sundays, without worrying about parking fees. However, some areas, such as Georgetown and the National Mall, may still have time-limited parking restrictions on Sundays, so be sure to check the posted signs before parking your vehicle.
What are the parking options near museums in DC?
There are a few options available for parking near the National Mall, where many of the most popular museums and attractions are located. One option for parking near the museums is the garage located on 7th St. SW, between D and E streets.
Another option is to park at Union Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the National Mall. These parking garages offer rates by the hour, as well as daily rates for those who wish to spend the entire day exploring the city’s attractions.
