Tucked away on a side street in Washington D.C. is a gem of a hotel for families — we hardly know where to begin in explaining how wonderful it is. In fact, the hotel’s perks are made apparent before you even walk in — the property offers self-parking in an enclosed garage, a rarity in Washington D.C. (or any city, for that matter). Inside, families are treated to a gorgeous, open atrium with waterfalls, a fish pond (where kids are invited to feed the fish daily), and tables and chairs on which to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

The all-suite accommodations are a win for families, too, with kitchenettes and space for up to six or more guests. It’s the perfect place to call “home” between visits to the Smithsonian Museums, National Mall and other popular attractions in Washington D.C.

For more information, read about Embassy Suites Hotels.

The hotel provides a wide array of accommodations, many of them facing the beautiful atrium. In 2015, all rooms received new bedding to complement rooms furnished in hues of red and tan. All include TVs and Wi-Fi, though fees may apply to the latter.

Play yards are available upon request, and are free of charge. Rollaway beds aren't available, though there's also not really a need for them.

Suites
Suites include two rooms, plus kitchenettes with mini-fridges and microwaves. They also have tables that double as spaces to dine or work (or better yet, play board games). Many suites also include sofa beds, allowing up to six guests per unit.

Executive Rooms
Executive Rooms simply provide more space, with large tables for up six people, plus refrigerators, microwaves and coffeemakers. Executive Rooms sleep four to six guests.

Indoor Pool
The hotel has a small, indoor pool, about 4 feet in depth. It isn't anything special, but is nice for afternoon breaks. Hours vary.

Fish Feeding
Kids can feed the beautiful coy fish in the morning and evening; ask someone at the front desk for designated feeding times, as they occasionally vary.

Movie Nights
During the summer months, movies and games are offered in a designated lounge area just for kids. Movies usually start at 5:30 p.m.

Complimentary Breakfast
A complimentary breakfast is served 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. on weekdays, and 7 to 10 a.m. on weekends. It includes cooked-to-order omelets, plus other hot items like eggs, sausage and oatmeal. Highchairs are available upon request.

Evening Receptions
Complimentary evening receptions are also part of the fun for families, with cocktails (fees apply) for parents and a kids' station, complete with Shirley Temples and other mocktails. Light bites are served as well. Evening receptions are held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. nightly.

Trattoria Nicola's
You haven't had pasta until you've eaten at Trattoria Nicola's. Handmade penne, fettuccine and more are featured on the menu. There's also a buffet available Monday through Friday, with antipasti, salads, soups, pastas and desserts. Secret: The pasta is made onsite by the same woman who makes it at Filomena's, a tiny, equally delicious restaurant in Georgetown.

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, typically 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. on weekends.

All About the Extras
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is $12.95 per day in guestrooms, but it's free in the lobby, where you'll want to spend a lot of your time anyway.

Gift Shop
The onsite gift shop sells, snacks, gifts and any necessities you may have forgotten to pack.

Laundry
Coin-laundry facilities are available onsite and cost $1.50 per washer and dryer. Laundry detergent is also available onsite.

ATM
There's an ATM onsite, but a $3 fee applies.

Fitness Center
The hotel offers a fairly large fitness center (for a hotel), with several treadmills, elliptical machines, free weights and resistance equipment. The fitness center is open 24 hours.

Check-In/Check-Out
Check-in is at 4 p.m. and check-out is at 11 a.m.

The Art of Smart Timing
Embassy Suites fills up with families during the summer months. Schedule a visit to the city and a stay at the hotel during the fall, or try something different and visit in the wintertime.

Getting There
Fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport or Washington Dulles International Airport, and allot at least an hour from the airport to the hotel.

Getting Around
Self-parking is available at the hotel for $44 per night. All you need is your key card to access the underground car garage. From there, the ground lobby is easily accessible via an elevator.

For Mom and Dad
You don't have to go far for a romantic meal. Head downstairs to the hotel's signature restaurant, Trattoria Nicola, for handmade pasta and premium wines.