North of Lafayette Park is Mcpherson Square, where there is a metro station.
Washington DC has an excellent public transportation network. Driving a Car in DC is a nuisance, parking is scarce and expensive. I recommend metros and buses.
The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority has a tourist guide with information on tourist landmarks and nearby metro stations. There are five Metro lines. Smithsonian (Blue and Orange Lines) is the best station to get to the Mall. Buses are also very convenient to move around.