DCA Airport Guide

| June 4, 2018
DCA Airport

Stepping into DCA Airport, you might just feel the urge to hum the Star-Spangled Banner as your hand unconsciously reaches for your heart. Why the sudden patriotic fever? You’re in Washington, DC, baby! The epicenter of American politics and history is right at your fingertips, and DCA is your launchpad to all the action.

About DCA Airport

Nestled just south of the city center, Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (let’s stick with DCA, shall we?) is more than just a transit hub – it’s a gateway to American history. This bustling airport serves over 20 million passengers annually, with American Airlines playing the role of head honcho, shuttling nearly half of all travelers.

 

Sightseeing Extravaganza

Once you’ve touched down, prepare for a whirlwind tour of iconic landmarks that’ll make your inner history buff squeal with delight. Here’s a taste of what awaits:

  1. Lincoln Memorial: Honest Abe’s larger-than-life statue is waiting to greet you.
  2. Washington Monument: It’s like a giant exclamation point for America!
  3. The White House: Wave to the President (they might be busy, though).
  4. Capitol Hill: Where laws are made and occasionally followed.
  5. Smithsonian Museums: A smorgasbord of knowledge awaits.
  6. National Museum of Natural History: Dinosaurs, gems, and that big elephant in the room.

Parking at DCA: A Tale of Three Terminals

Each terminal at DCA has its own parking area, because sharing is overrated, right?

 

Terminal A Garage:

• Connected to the airport via an underground walkway (secret agent vibes, anyone?)

• Serves Air Canada, Frontier, Southwest, and Sun Country

• $6 per hour or $25 per day

• Pro tip: Use the West Entrance – the East Entrance is playing hard to get (permanently closed)

• Offers shuttle service to other terminals for the directionally challenged

 

Terminal B and C Garages:

• Home to American, Alaska, Delta, JetBlue, Virgin America, and United

• Same pricing as Terminal A ($6/hour, $25/day)

• Connected to terminals by covered walkways (in case it rains freedom)

• Garage B features electric vehicle charging stations (save the planet while you travel!)

 

Economy Parking:

• Perfect for longer stays at $17 per day

• Serves all airlines

• Shuttle service to every terminal (because walking is so last century)

 

Cell Phone Lot:

• Free parking for up to one hour

• Driver must stay with the vehicle (no sneaking off for a quick tour of the city!)

But always remember, it is almost impossible to beat airport parking rates provided by OneStopParking. The facilitate pre-booking your DCA parking at hotels near the airport and also using the free shuttle services to get you to your flight on time.

Hotels Near DCA Airport

Just a few minutes west of DCA, Jefferson Davis Highway is a smorgasbord of comfy airport hotels:

  1. Hilton Crystal City: Free airport shuttle and a name that sounds fancy
  2. Hyatt Regency Crystal City: Also with free shuttle and a touch of regency
  3. Courtyard by Marriott: For when you want a courtyard… by Marriott
  4. Embassy Suites: Suite dreams are made of these
  5. Residence Inn by Marriott (Pentagon City): Full kitchen for those midnight snack attacks
  6. Sheraton Pentagon: Rooftop pool for your inner mermaid/merman

Budget-Friendly Options:

• Hampton Inn: Free breakfast and WiFi (because free stuff is the best stuff)

• Crowne Plaza: Also free WiFi, in case you need to Instagram your patriotic journey

 

 

 

U.S. Flag -- Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) December 2015Getting Your Tourist On: From DCA to DC

DCA is conveniently connected to DC’s Metrorail system via terminals B and C. Here’s how to navigate like a local:

• Purchase a SmarTrip card at the subway station

• For $10, you get a card pre-loaded with $8 of fare (math is hard, we know)

• Day passes available for $14.75 – unlimited Metrorail and Metrobus travel

• Recharge your card like you recharge your phone – frequently and with mild panic

 

DCA Airport Facilities: More Than Just Runways

  1. Dining: From quick bites to sit-down restaurants, satisfy your cravings with options like Ben’s Chili Bowl (a DC institution) or Legal Sea Foods (for a taste of the coast).

  2. Shopping: Forgot your “I ❤️ DC” t-shirt? Fear not! Browse through shops like America! (yes, that’s really its name) or pick up last-minute essentials at Hudson News.

  3. Art Program: DCA features rotating exhibits showcasing local artists. Who says airports can’t be cultured?

  4. USO Lounge: A haven for military personnel and their families, offering comfort and support.

  5. Pet Relief Areas: Because even Fido needs a pit stop before takeoff.

  6. Nursing Rooms: Private, comfortable spaces for mothers and babies.

 

Pro Tips for Navigating DCA Like a Boss

  1. Security Fast Track: TSA PreCheck and CLEAR are available for those who like to zoom past security lines.

  2. Mobile Boarding Passes: Save trees and time by using your smartphone.

  3. Airport Layout: DCA is relatively compact, making connections a breeze.

  4. Window Seat Alert: Sit on the left side of the plane when landing for spectacular views of DC monuments.

  5. Off-Peak Travel: If possible, fly during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and potential delays.

 

Remember, DCA parking doesn’t have to be a wallet-draining experience. With OneStopParking, you can snag the best rates and even book your spot online. It’s like finding a golden ticket, but for parking!

So there you have it, folks – your comprehensive guide to conquering DCA Airport and launching your DC adventure. Now go forth and explore the capital with the confidence of a seasoned politician (but with better approval ratings)!