MaryBeth created a fantastic list of vacation homes to rent as a group. Click here to view. Please note, this list contains accommodations for both Washington DC and Baltimore.
To avoid DC's high priced hotels we recommend looking into vacation homes or Bed and Breakfasts.
The Embassy Circle Guest House receives great reviews and is located in the Dupont Circle neighborhood with easy metro (the subway system) access. Dupont Circle is a vibrant neighborhood with many things to see and do.
Located in the Woodley Park neighborhood and close to the National Zoo is the Woodley Park Guest House. The Woodley Park Guest House also receives fantastic reviews from TripAdvisor.
Centrally located in the Penn Quarter (aka Gallery Place/Chinatown) is the Hotel Monaco. Not only is it within walking distance to the National Mall the Hotel Monaco also has chic, modern decor.