Of course, there are plenty of other hotel options. Check out travel sites such as www.hotels.com and www.kayak.com to find a hotel that matches your needs. If you’d like to be within walking distance of the West Lawn, neighborhoods and landmarks to search for are Capitol Hill, Union Station Penn Quarter, and L’Enfant Plaza. Please refer to a map of DC, including the Metro transit map, to be sure you know what your travel options are.
As noted above, there are several Metro subway stops near the West Lawn. Other neighborhoods to check out that are not within walking distance but are Metro-accessible are Dupont Circle, Navy Yard, Downtown and Crystal City.
Check out apartment and home rentals at www.vrbo.com, www.homeaway.com and www.flipkey.com. Sometimes these can offer more flexibility and affordability when traveling with kids in tow.
There are campgrounds near DC as well. Check out KOA for your options – www.koa.com/find-a-koa/. You’ll search for Virginia and Maryland because there are no campgrounds in DC city limits. Please also note that you’ll need to make arrangements to drive to the event as public transit from area campgrounds is not likely an easy option.