A top-notch, dirt-cheap hostel close to the Metro and Downtown Washington, Hostelling International offers 250 beds divided between singles and doubles and larger dorm-style single-sex rooms or "family" rooms of four-, six-, eight- and ten-bed configurations. Private rooms sleep two hostellers in twin beds.
Most have shared bathrooms, but there are a limited number with en suite bathrooms. You can reserve online for a $5 discount—you’ll have to forgo the breakfast, but you won’t miss it. Kitchens, lockers, a new games room and a laundry (self-service) are all at your disposal during your stay, and the staff arrange group walking tours and theater outings. Most importantly, there is no lock-out time. We recommend booking well in advance, because large groups often take up most of the beds. Non-members of Hostelling International are subject to a temporary membership fee of $3 per person.