Hi jorboy
We stayed twice at Cherry Hill. We liked it as they had a lot of maps/info & etc., plus small group talks informing new tourists of things "to-do" and "not to do" so you won't have any surprises on you outings into the city. Also local buses stop there and take you a few miles to DC's fantastic subway system in the College Park area. A 10-15 minute ride in and you pop up in the middle of the city-perfect! Enjoy your trip and plan on a good bit of walking.
Gene
PS: The Dept. of Agriculture has a cafeteria style public eating area that is really good...