Looking for parking in Washington DC? This parking guide will tell you everything you need to know.
As our nation’s capital, Washington DC boasts countless attractions, historic sites and other things to do. Here at SpotHero, we compiled everything you need to know about parking in Washington DC.
Already know where you’re headed? Search the interactive map below or download the SpotHero app on iOS or Android for easy parking reservations. If you want to learn more about how SpotHero works, check out this guide.
Table of Contents
Parking in Washington DC near Top Attractions
Washington DC Residential Parking Rules
Washington DC Winter Parking Rules
How To Avoid Parking Tickets in Washington DC
Parking in Washington DC Near Top Attractions
Lincoln Memorial
Check out this historic monument of President Lincoln and get a great view of the city.
One top Lincoln Memorial parking location is:
2400 Virginia Ave. NW – Garage
16-minute walk to Lincoln Memorial
Parking rates: starting at $10
Explore more Lincoln Memorial parking here.
National Mall
Walk through the famous National Mall to see where countless presidential inaugurations have taken place throughout American history.
One affordable National Mall parking spot is:
700 D St. NW – Market Square Garage
8-minute walk to National Mall
Parking rate: starting at $11
Check out more National Mall parking here.
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is home to the U.S. Capitol Building, the Supreme Court and the largest residential neighborhood in DC.
One top parking spot in Capitol Hill is:
1050 2nd St. SE (140 L St. SE) – Capitol Hill Tower
13-minute walk to Capitol Hill
Parking rate: starting at $10
Search for more Capitol Hill parking here.
Washington Monument
You can’t miss the iconic and tallest building in DC, the Washington Monument.
One convenient parking spot at Washington Monument is:
424 11th St. NW – Valet Assist
16-minute walk to Washington Monument
Parking rate: starting at $10
Explore more Washington Monument parking here.
Smithsonian Museums
There are over 19 museums in DC, and The Smithsonian is the largest among them, with some of the most important artifacts from our nation’s history.
One great Smithsonian parking spot to look at is:
1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW – Valet
10-minute walk to Smithsonian Museums
Parking rate: starting at $25
Want more Smithsonian parking? Click here.
Washington DC Stadium Parking
During your time in DC, take some time to catch a game or concert at one of DC’s world-class stadiums. Below are some great parking options for each stadium.
Nationals Park
Need something to do during the weekday? If the Washington Nationals are in town, pop over to Nationals Park for an afternoon at the ballpark.
One top parking location at Nationals Park is:
5-minute walk to Nationals Park
Parking rate: starting at $10
Explore more Nationals Park parking here.
Capital One Arena
Right in DC’s downtown Penn Quarter and a few blocks away from the National Mall, is Capital One Arena. Formerly known as the Verizon Center, it is home to the Washington Wizards and the Washington Capitals.
One great Capital One Arena parking location is:
732 6th St. NW – Gallery Place Garage (Lot 602)
5-minute walk to Capital One Arena
Parking rate: starting at $12
Want more Capital One Arena parking? Click here.
Washington DC Metered Parking
The city has tons of on-street and off-street public parking meters for you to take advantage of. It’s important to know the rules of that specific meter if you don’t want to get a parking ticket. You can find more info on DC metered parking here.
Washington DC Residential Parking Rules
DC has parking available in residential parts of the city, however you must follow the procedure of obtaining the permit. Find out how to obtain a permit for DC residential parking here. If you don’t want to go through the trouble of obtaining the permit, have a stress free parking experience in DC by reserving parking with SpotHero.
Washington DC Winter Parking Rules
Washington DC winters can be tough to navigate when it comes to parking. It’s important to look out for street closures in extreme winter weather. For more information on parking procedures during Washington DC winter emergencies, click here.
Your best bet is to avoid street parking altogether when it’s snowing or when snow is on the ground. Park in a parking garage or lot instead by reserving your parking in advance with SpotHero.
How To Avoid Parking Tickets in Washington DC
- Always look out for signage about parking restrictions when parking on the street. Restrictions typically have to do with weather, time limits, and street cleaning.
- The two main reasons street parking may not be permitted are street cleanings and construction. Many blocks have specific days and hours that parking is not permitted, based on when street cleanings are scheduled. Keep an eye out for signage indicating these restricted signs.
- Know when to not park on the street. Sometimes, knowing when to opt for off-street parking can save you a lot of pain and frustration. During major events or when traveling to a dense area, for example, off-street parking is not only the easier, but the more affordable choice. Consider finding and reserving off-street parking in advance for optimal convenience.
For more tips to avoid parking tickets, click here.
Washington DC Airport Parking
Looking for airport parking? Washington DC’s main airports – Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport – have several parking options within close proximity, ranging from short-term and long-term parking to off-airport lots and hotel parking. Parking with SpotHero is an affordable and convenient way to explore your options and reserve parking in advance, often at a better price point than drive-up rates.
To search for Ronald Reagan airport parking, click here.
To search for Dulles airport parking, click here.
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Search and find more options for Washington DC parking here.