Hotels/Getting Around DC
 

So I've perused the various hotel/transportation threads in this forum, but am still confused about what the best course of action would be for an upcoming trip to DC (besides do not set foot in a taxi!).

I'm going to be at an event for most of the time that is located near the Galleria/Chinatown Metro stop. The nearest "nice" hotel to there from what I can tell is the Monaco, but I'm wary of staying there because of all the negative reviews on different travel sites (though I did enjoy the Monaco in Denver). I'd normally gravitate to a hotel like the Sofitel (luxury but not priced as such), but that would require me to switch trains (the nearest Metro stop being McPherson Square on the orange line). The Fairmont would also be of interest, though that also seems like a bit of a hike from the Galleria/Chinatown stop.

I guess what I'm looking for is an upscale hotel (prefer boutique-y type places to the Marriotts/Sheratons/Westins of the world) that isn't going to break the bank, that is conveniently located to the Galleria/Chinatown stop (how reliable is the Metro on the weekends?), but is also in an area that is safe with a fun late-night scene on the weekend. If anyone has any ideas/recommendations, I'd be most appreciative! :)

If you like the Sofitel, stay at the one on 15th and H Street NW. To get to Chinatown area it is a 7 block walk straight down H Street should take you 15-20 minutes. Mc Phearson Metro Stop is about 1 block away, but you would have to change at the next stop which is Metro Center for the Red Line and take that one stop to Chinatown- I bet you could walk faster. Great area around the Sofitel. Here are some restaurant ideas Old Ebbitt Grill, Bobby Van's, BLT Steak. At night, the area would be a little quite, but a cab to Georgetown would not be too much.

the metro is very user friendly and reliable. I would not be concerned about changing stops. Very easy.

You can check the metro schedules online. www.wmata.com

My recollection is that the do not have a lot of wee hour runs. Regarding taxis in
D.C. -- we have taken them late at night with no problem.

Sorry, I can't help with the hotel question.