If you don't go for the $$ ones, they are the same for the most part.  Novotel is in a good spot, never stayed there though.  If you go for one downtown, make sure you check the parking to make sure that it's included.  Parking is insane.

Weather today is pretty mild. They aren't to optimistic about the Canal making it to the weekend according to the morning show I heard on the commute.

That being said, there is lots of other things to do if it is closed.

Thanks for all of the replies. I guess if they are trucking snow into the winter olympics because it is too warm out west, I should not be surprised if it gets warm out east and I will need scuba gear when I skate the Rideau.

I'm still going to the nation's capital no matter what! Gonna get me some tail, beaver tail of course