| Document and Entity Information | May 12, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001511337 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | May 12, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | RLJ LODGING TRUST |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | MD |
| Entity File Number | 001-35169 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 27-4706509 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 3 Bethesda Metro Center Suite 1000 |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Bethesda, |
| Entity Address, State or Province | MD |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 20814 |
| City Area Code | 301 |
| Local Phone Number | 280-7777 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Shares of beneficial interest, par value $0.01 per share |
| Trading Symbol | RLJ |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
