DCA is the most convenient airport option in the D...

DCA is the most convenient airport option in the DC metro. While I definitely have a Love/Hate relationship with this airport -- this airport is close to DC, easily accessible, and has many direct flights. Yes, it could look nicer; yes, its a bit small; and yes it's a bit dated -- but with all of this said, its not dulles. Dulles being in the middle of nowhere, on a toll road, and rarely having direct flights. Stick to DCA for your best priced and most accessible option in DC.

PROTIP: If you have some flex in your schedule, also research BWI for flights. Its a 45 minute train ride (~15 bucks roundtrip) and a 5-10 min free shuttle from the train station to the airport. I find BWI tends to have cheaper flights at times -- so its worth a look.