Looks can be deceiving
This unassuming motel looks in need of refurbishing from the outside, but the reality is that it's very clean and well-run by a pleasant and accommodating staff from the front desk to the maid service. The evening check-in clerk was pleasant and helpful. Our room was comfortable and a find at the cheapest price I could identify in the DC area. The Amtrak runs nearby and vibrates occasionally, and there is some highway noise, but it didn't bother us even though we come from a quiet environment. Our wake-up call was prompt. The breakfast room was attractive and clean, and the basic breakfast (between six and nine)--juice, coffee, muffins, doughnuts, cold cereal, bagels--was tasty and convenient. We needed to identify some local businesses and the front desk pleasantly provided us with a yellow pages telephone book. The Howard Johnson Inn in Washington DC is a good hotel at a reasonable price in a pricey city--and within ~15 min. walking distance of the Metro.