| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 06, 2020 | May 12, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | ||
| Amendment Flag | false | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001511337 | |
| Document Type | 8-K | |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 6, 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 |
