Originally Posted by
LAX2DCA
This was the old Cambria. It’s in sort of an odd location for tourists—lots of locals live around there, but it’s not really central to anything. Also, be mindful when walking around at night since the area isn’t the safest and has had its share of activity.
I lived a block from that hotel for almost eight years (moved away in 2022). It's a very safe area that's completely gentrified in the past 15 years. The hotel is at the corner of 9th and O. That said, there are gangs that sit at the corner of 7th and O and 5th and O that have been at odds for decades, which I believe is what the above comment referenced. There's usually a police presence, and the gangs know that they can't do anything to passers-by or the police will really crack down on them.
I would avoid the blocks of O between 7th st and 5th st. But you'll be completely safe at all hours in that neighborhood. I highly recommend Maxwell Park, across the st from the hotel, which is one of DC's best, and most inclusive, wine bars.