Our nation’s capital understandably sees its fair share of visitors. In fact, more than 24 million people make the trek to Washington, DC every year. 

Are you planning your own trip? Perhaps you want to see the iconic cherry blossoms in the spring or attend the National Christmas Tree Lighting in December. 

Either way, you don’t want to spend hours of precious time circling around to find a parking spot.

Today, we’re here to take some of the stress out of your visit. In this quick guide to Washington DC parking, you’ll find affordable, convenient, and accessible spots around the city. You can even reserve some today using our mobile app!

1. ALPA Building: Lot 540

Located at 1625 Massachusetts Avenue NW, ALPA Building, LOT 540 is a paved lot that offers convenient three-hour parking. 

It’s centrally located near downtown DC, as well as Dupont Circle and Logan Circle. It’s also a 15-minute walk to The White House! You can reserve your spot here. 

2. Gallery Place: Lot 602

You’ll find Gallery Place, Lot 602 at 777 7th Street NW. It’s located in the Chinatown District and is a walkable distance to many area attractions.

Just minutes from here, you’ll find the National Building Museum, National Portrait Gallery, and the National Gallery of Art. 

Want to save a spot at Gallery Place? You can do so on our mobile app!

3. TechWorld Garage: Lot 958

TechWorld Garage, Lot 958 is located on 801 Street NW. It’s also conveniently located in DC’s Chinatown District, near lots of shops, restaurants, and nightlife options. It’s also close to City Center, the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, and the Capital One Arena. 

There are two entrances to this covered/underground parking garage, including 7th Street and I Street. Located underneath the sprawling Renaissance Washington Hotel, it fills the entire block. 

This is another parking area you can reserve through our app.

4. 1200 17th Street NW

Located at the northern edge of DC’s central business district, the entrance to this lot is at 1718 M Street NW. It’s a great place to park when you’re in the city for work. 

There’s also an EV charging station here, and the location is paved and secure. Planning a trip nearby? Make a reservation today!

5. Resources and Conservation Center: Lot 372

Lot 372 at the Resources and Conservation Center is located at 16th Street NW. It’s is a solid choice for anyone staying in or around the neighborhoods between 16th and R Streets.

The Center itself is home to vast office spaces, a courtyard garden, and a large conference facility. There are also parks, coffee shops, and nature preserves nearby.

Want to go ahead and choose a spot here? You can make a reservation online in just a few clicks!

6. Tivoli Square: Lot 879

You can find this lot at 1345 Park Road Northwest, near the city’s Columbia Heights district. 

Located north of the hustle and bustle of downtown, this lot is covered, paved, secure, and one of the most economical in the area. It also has space to accommodate oversized vehicles. 

Planning to visit the Smithsonian National Zoological Park? This lot is located just 13 minutes away. You can reserve parking here today. 

7. 600 Pennsylvania Avenue SE: Lot 660

A trip to DC wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Capitol Hill! This lot is located right in the heart of the area, close to the Library of Congress, U.S. Supreme Court, and the Capitol Building. 

If you reserve a parking spot here, head to the attendant booth when you arrive. You’ll need to show your confirmation to the attendant on-site, and if the lot is especially busy, you may be asked to leave your keys.

When you exit, you’ll show your confirmation again. 

8. 22 M Street NE: Lot 954

Coming in at under $9 for three hours of parking, this is one of the most economical lots on our list. It’s near DC’s NoMa neighborhood as well as Mt. Vernon Triangle and East End Stanton Park. 

There will be a round, grey scanner at the entry/exit location. If you’re heading to your reserved spot, scan your QR code here.

As with the lot above, you may be asked to leave your keys with the attendant if the lot is very full. In both locations, be careful not to park in any spot labeled “Reserved”. 

Another note to remember about this lot? If you park overnight, you’ll only be able to access your vehicle during the posted garage hours.

On-Street Metered Parking

The eight parking locations listed above are only the tip of the iceberg You’ll find many more on our app, so simply enter your destination and see what’s around!

In addition to reserve lots, we can also help you find and pay for local on-street metered parking so you don’t have to drive around forever.

You can find a detailed map of our metered parking zones here. Find your zone, click “Park Here” and enter your preferred method of payment. It really is as simple as that. 

Successfully Navigate Washington DC Parking

There are many reasons to visit the capital and you don’t have to let concerns about Washington DC parking hold you back! As long as you know where to go and which spots to select, it’s easy to enjoy a fun adventure in the city. 

Ready to get started? The ParkMobile app is designed to help you every step of the way.

Whether you want to park right now or reserve a spot for later, we make it simple to secure an open space near you. 

Download our free app or visit online at parkmobile.io to find and pay for parking in seconds. With coverage in more than 400 cities across the U.S., we’ll help you get out and explore.