I'll be flying into DCA to arrive 11pm+ at night, then flying out again a few days later at 6am.

I presume a taxi is the best way to go? Are car rental counters even open, and if so - is it worth getting a rental car in DC?

Your thoughts appreciated!

-cheapo

Are you going downtown (DC) or elsewhere in the area? If you are just going downtown only, you will probably find a rental car to be more hassle and expense than it is worth. (Plenty of cabs in DC and a good Metro system.)

From DCA at 11PM, I'd probably grab a cab unless you know the Metro system already and you know your hotel is near the Metro stop on the other end. (Not that the Metro is unsafe at night - it is actually quite clean and safe at all hours - but the trains run less frequently at night and the advantage gained on the train vs. car traffic is lost.)

If you are staying in the suburbs, you might want a rental car depending on how mobile you need to be while there. I don't think getting a car at 11PM should be a problem at a major company like Hertz or Avis. Call to be 100% sure, but I think they stay open as long as scheduled flights are arriving (especially if they know people have reservations for cars).

I totally agree with the last response. National from my experience is dead early morning and late nite since there are few flights. If you do rent a car I recommend that you do so OUT of the airport. Most rental agencies have places to get cars which are very convenient in the city. You will save a ton not paying the airport taxes!!

Cheers and welcome to dc!