The best hotels in Washington, DC, in 2023 – The Points Guy
From the quaint, historic cobblestone streets of Georgetown to the vibrant, prideful pop art murals in Adams Morgan, our nation’s capital is home to some of the country’s most intriguing, diverse neighborhoods. As you’d expect, those neighborhoods also house a full assortment of hotels fit for all kinds of travelers on various budgets.
History buffs will especially love Washington, D.C.’s array of accommodations, as many serve as living monuments that continue to greet presidents, foreign officials and the district’s movers and shakers. The Line DC, which occupies an early 20th-century church, beckons to artsy types who crave a dose of history. Meanwhile, the InterContinental The Willard Washington D.C. attracts guests with an interest in American politics, as it was here that former President Ulysses S. Grant reportedly coined the term “lobbyist” after some pesky political advocates spent hours in the hotel’s lobby seeking to gain a few seconds of face time with the president during stays.
But not all of D.C.’s hotels require a passion for history to appreciate. Whether you’re looking for over-the-top grandeur, a more subtle take on luxury or a budget-friendly (yet stylish) place to retreat to after a busy day of sightseeing, there are plenty of excellent hotels to choose from in the district. Here are 16 of Washington, D.C.’s best hotels.
The Hay-Adams
Washington, D.C., USA
THE HAY-ADAMS/FACEBOOK
Best for: History buffs who want phenomenal views of the White House.
Why stay here: Thanks to the chandeliers, the Lafayette Square location and the Tesla house car, this 1928 Italian Renaissance palace stands out from the competition.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits.
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Long regarded as one of D.C.’s premier hotels thanks to its mix of art deco flair and palpable history, the conveniently located Hay-Adams is ideal for visitors seeking elegant accommodations with a view.
Overlooking the White House, the nearly 100-year-old Leading Hotels of the World property blends sophisticated decor with modern conveniences. Expect draperies and bed linens with traditional prints, photographs of the city’s famous landmarks, Etro toiletries, a Bluetooth speaker and a Google Chromecast-equipped flat-screen TV inside each of the 145 guest rooms and suites.
The public spaces are just as glorious. After passing through the towering columns by the entrance, you’ll discover a series of grandiose chandeliers illuminating the ornate lobby, which has Old World details like rich wood paneling and vaulted archways. Other areas accessible to guests range from a small but well-equipped fitness center to the moody Off the Record bar, where you can enjoy cocktails and light bites amid caricatures of politicians.
For something more substantial, sit for a meal at The Lafayette. The menu showcases a number of contemporary American dishes, such as Atlantic halibut with potatoes, spinach and littleneck clams, and locally sourced filet mignon with asparagus, wild mushrooms and shaved black truffle. Should you rather dine off-site, ask the historic hotel’s team of Les Clefs d’Or concierges to snag you a last-minute reservation at one of the city’s hottest restaurants.
Rates at The Hay-Adams start at $399 per night.
Related: Racing to the capital: What’s the fastest way to get from New York to Washington, DC?
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Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL WASHINGTON, DC/FOUR SEASONS
Best for: Getting glimpses of foreign dignitaries as they pass through the lobby.
Why stay here: After a day of exploring D.C., retire to total comfort in this Georgetown property, where a hot tub and sauna comfortably await.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits.
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At the entrance to quaint Georgetown sits the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC, a luxurious spot within steps of some of the district’s best restaurants and shops.
The 222 handsomely decorated rooms feature a calm color scheme (think: white, taupe and soft pearl) with occasional pops of color on accent pillows, chairs and wall art. Beds are dressed in crisp white down duvets and pillows, while the limestone bathrooms offer separate showers and bathtubs, terry bathrobes and Salvatore Ferragamo toiletries.
Weekend guests can enjoy two culinary delights: afternoon tea with an array of homemade pastries, and a mouthwatering brunch offering all kinds of Mediterranean-influenced highlights, including a falafel bar, an omelet station and a raw bar. Both take place in the airy Seasons restaurant, which welcomes patrons every morning with an array of healthy international dishes.
For a bite to eat at night, be sure to visit Bourbon Steak, the Four Seasons’ modern American steakhouse. At the restaurant, diners can choose from a delectable selection of steak and seafood dishes, plus an extensive wine list.
To work off all the tasty food you’ll consume during your stay, head to the 12,000-square-foot fitness center, which is open 24 hours a day, or swim laps in the two-lane pool. Then, unwind with a treatment at the award-winning spa. Standout services include the chardonnay body scrub and wine facial, which incorporate antioxidants from grapeseed extract to help nourish your skin.
Rates at the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC start at $677 per night.
The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
THE RITZ CARLTON GEORGETOWN, WASHINGTON, DC/FACEBOOK
Best for: Marriott Bonvoy members who want to redeem points for a luxury hotel stay in charming Georgetown.
Why stay here: Once an industrial incinerator, this character-rich hotel overlooking the Potomac River treats guests to complimentary afternoon hot chocolate and premium snacks.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn Marriott points while enjoying elitelike benefits and on-property credits, or redeem your points by booking directly with Marriott.
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Whether you’re a Marriott loyalist or a fan of luxury, The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, DC will appeal to you. With only 86 rooms and suites, this eye-catching hotel, which occupies a brick building previously used as an incinerator, offers a boutique experience in one of D.C.’s most beloved neighborhoods.
A block off the corner of M Street Northwest and Wisconsin Avenue, this Ritz-Carlton outpost places you a stone’s throw away from Georgetown’s cute shops and eateries. Plus, you’ll have easy access to the running paths along the tree-lined Chesapeake & Ohio Canal.
If you’d rather linger on-site, you’re in luck, as many of the hotel’s accommodations have fireplaces and river views to ensure you have a relaxing stay. For an extra dose of pampering, reserve one of the hotel’s wellness rooms, which are located on the spa level and feature extra amenities like air purifiers, yoga mats, aromatherapy bath salts and sound machines.
Should you wish to break a sweat, visit the recently renovated fitness center, which offers a mix of cardio and weight-training equipment, including two Peloton bikes. Then, relax while watching a flick at the movie theater within the hotel complex.
To satisfy your appetite, head to Degrees Bistro, the on-site restaurant. Menu favorites include the flambe fromage toast with brie cheese and fig jam, the lemongrass teriyaki quinoa bowl and the smoked Nantucket scallops.
Rates at The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, DC start at $575 or 70,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Related: The best times to visit Washington, DC
Rosewood Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
ROBERT RECK/ROSEWOOD WASHINGTON, DC/FACEBOOK
Best for: Luxury travelers looking for a memorable stay in Georgetown.
Why stay here: Offering a superb Georgetown location right on the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal, this Rosewood outpost offers rooms, suites and townhouses outfitted with marble bathrooms and rainfall showers, plus a can’t-miss bar on the rooftop terrace.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits.
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Another Georgetown favorite on the banks of the C&O Canal, the Rosewood woos visitors with its understated elegance.
Guests have 55 sleek accommodations to choose from, ranging from standard rooms to suites with separate bedrooms to brick-clad townhouses that blend in with the property’s historic surroundings. Room amenities include hardwood floors, rainfall showers, stocked minibars and Nespresso machines.
Season permitting, you can enjoy a dip in the rooftop’s indoor-outdoor pool, which has a built-in fireplace and views of the Potomac River, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the Washington Monument. The rooftop is also home to a fitness center with a Peloton bike, a Concept2 rower, a selection of free weights and an outdoor stretching area, among other amenities.
As far as dining goes, you won’t want to miss Cut D.C., the property’s only restaurant. The Wolfgang Puck-linked establishment serves some of D.C.’s most creative dishes, such as fried rice with Maine lobster, local blue crab and smoked Virginia country ham, and ceviche made with Virginia rockfish, coconut, Thai basil and lime leaf. Check out the restaurant’s rooftop lounge for phenomenal city panoramas.
Rates at the Rosewood Washington, DC start at $548 per night.
The Watergate Hotel
Washington, D.C., USA
THE WATERGATE HOTEL/FACEBOOK
Best for: Nixon-era history buffs.
Why stay here: The site of the infamous Watergate break-in, The Watergate Hotel draws those interested in history, politics and luxury.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits.
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Despite its dark pallete and somewhat brutalist avant-garde design, the beautifully renovated Watergate Hotel offers guests a dose of luxury on the banks of the Potomac River.
The site of the infamous 1972 break-in, the 336-room property gives history-loving visitors an incredible peek at the incident that led to former President Richard Nixon’s impeachment in its one-of-a-kind Scandal Room. Inside this room, which was used to orchestrate the break-in, you’ll find many items inspired by the period, such as a manual typewriter and a reel-to-reel tape recorder. There are even walls of break-in artifacts, including newspaper clippings, official White House photos and letters signed by Nixon.
If you don’t have the budget to stay in the Scandal Room, opt for a more affordable superior or deluxe room. Measuring at least 275 square feet, these spaces are more compact but come packed with everything you could need during your stay, including plush bathrobes, minibars, flat-screen TVs and beds with goose-down comforters. The decor is not quite as bold as what you’ll see in the Scandal Room but is still in line with the midcentury modern vibe throughout the hotel thanks to earthy hues and wooden accents.
Outside the rooms, guests can unwind at the Argentta Spa, where luxe treatments (including fully customizable facials and massages) are available. The spa also has a fully equipped gym and one of the district’s best indoor pools, so be sure to save time for a dip after your workout.
When your stomach starts to grumble, head to Kingbird for contemporary American fare made with locally sourced ingredients. For a nightcap, visit the lobby’s Next Whisky Bar or the seasonal Top of the Gate lounge on the rooftop.
Rates at The Watergate Hotel start at $203 per night.
Related: I slept in the hotel room tied to the Watergate break-in — here’s what it’s like 50 years later
Conrad Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
CONRAD WASHINGTON, DC/FACEBOOK
Best for: Hilton enthusiasts seeking total elegance a few blocks from the National Mall.
Why stay here: The Conrad is one of D.C.’s newer hotels, so you can expect a modern design and creature comforts like floor-to-ceiling windows and Shanghai Tang Mandarin Tea bath amenities.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn Hilton Honors points while enjoying elitelike benefits and on-property credits, or redeem your points by booking directly with Hilton.
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As one of Washington’s newest luxury hotels, it’s easy to mistake downtown’s Conrad Washington, DC for an upscale modern art museum. Looking up from the third-floor lobby, you’ll see a towering starfish-shaped web that spans multiple floors of the atrium.
Unsurprisingly, you’ll find a chic, contemporary vibe inside the 360 accommodations, too. Each guest room offers tons of natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, plus a spacious layout in neutral hues that includes a marble bathroom with a rainfall shower and double sinks.
If having club access is important to you — especially as a Hilton Honors Diamond member who is used to receiving it — consider upgrading to a Sakura Club room or suite. These accommodations offer a similar design as standard rooms but sit on the 10th floor and provide access to the Sakura Club, a beautiful lounge with complimentary breakfast, lighter fare at dinner, a selection of alcoholic beverages and concierge service, as well as views of the Capitol and the Washington Monument.
While the hotel lacks facilities like a pool and a spa, guests do have access to a fitness center with up-to-date equipment like treadmills and spin bikes. Visitors can also enjoy a seasonal rooftop bar and Estuary, the on-site restaurant. The latter serves a selection of dishes made with local ingredients from the Chesapeake Bay region.
Rates at the Conrad Washington, DC start at $361 or 80,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
Waldorf Astoria Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
WALDORF ASTORIA WASHINGTON, DC/FACEBOOK
Best for: The history connoisseur ready to splurge.
Why stay here: Now part of the Waldorf Astoria portfolio, this eye-catching property, which was once the Old Post Office, exudes Old World charm and elegance.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn Hilton Honors points while enjoying elitelike benefits and on-property credits, or redeem your points by booking directly with Hilton.
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Occupying D.C.’s beautiful historic Old Post Office, the grand Waldorf Astoria is an ideal spot for luxury-seeking sightseers, as it sits just a block north of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and within walking distance of other attractions on the National Mall.
Although much of the hotel still reflects its past as a Trump Hotels property — you won’t be hard-pressed to find gold-plated and velvet decor throughout — its rebranding as a Hilton means some of the over-the-top extravagances that once existed have since been toned down. For example, the 263 rooms and suites have crystal chandeliers and rich wood furnishings but are otherwise bright and airy with white, beige and navy blue color schemes. Standard amenities include glass-enclosed showers, Nespresso machines and drapes and sheers controlled electronically.
Should you need to rest your feet after a busy day out and about in D.C., book a treatment at the Waldorf Astoria Spa. There are six rooms available for an array of treatments, plus a therapy room with Himalayan salt, which can help clear and soothe lungs when breathed in.
For a bite to eat, check out The Bazaar by José Andrés. Recently opened in the lobby atrium, the restaurant draws on Americana flair with a nod to U.S. history. You’ll find tapas-style dishes like an Eisenhower stew made with braised beef cheeks and a crab Louie cone with Marie Rose sauce and fresh avocado.
Additional food and beverage options include Peacock Alley, the hotel’s bar known for its see-and-be-seen vibe, and Sushi Nakazawa, a Japanese-inspired establishment with a seafood-focused omakase menu.
Rates at the Waldorf Astoria Washington, DC start at $566 or 110,000 Hilton Honors points per night.
InterContinental The Willard Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
INTERCONTINENTAL THE WILLARD WASHINGTON, DC/FACEBOOK
Best for: Those with even the highest presidential standards.
Why stay here: With more than 200 years of history inside its walls, it’s no wonder why former President Abraham Lincoln fell in love with the grandeur of The Willard. It’s steps from attractions like the White House, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture and the Washington Monument.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn IHG One Rewards points while enjoying elitelike benefits and on-property credits, or redeem your points by booking directly with IHG.
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If you ask a Washingtonian which hotel in D.C. is the most historic, odds are they’ll mention The Willard.
Referred to by some as “the residence of presidents,” The Willard’s storied history dates back to 1818 when it started hosting American icons like Abraham Lincoln. The hotel quickly became a popular place for notable visitors to stay, as it’s just a stone’s throw away from the White House.
Prepare to be wowed the second you walk into this InterContinental outpost. Marble floors, kentia palms and fresh flowers immediately catch your eye as you step foot in the lobby, though you’ll quickly find yourself looking up to take in the Parisan-style gilded ceilings.
While the 335 rooms and suites are nowhere near as grand as the lobby, they also offer some historical charm. Expect shades of navy and ivory, traditional dark wood furnishings and monogrammed headboards, as well as contemporary touches like USB charging outlets and Nespresso machines with complimentary tea and coffee. Splurge on a suite named after a former U.S. president for additional space and the property’s best views.
As for dining, you’ll find a few venues on-site. Cafe du Parc offers brasserie-style French staples, including escargot, beef bourguignon and bouillabaisse, while the Round Robin Bar is the place to people-watch, as its circular bar welcomes all kinds of politicians who come to eat small plates, drink tasty cocktails and catch up on important business. For lighter bites on the go, visit the property’s coffee shop, Le Cafe.
Rates at the InterContinental The Willard Washington, DC start at $370 or 45,000 IHG One Rewards points per night.
Park Hyatt Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
PARK HYATT WASHINGTON, DC/FACEBOOK
Best for: The Hyatt luxury traveler looking for the panache of both Georgetown and the West End.
Why stay here: The Park Hyatt has an indoor saltwater pool and Zen-inspired accommodations, making it an ideal spot for relaxation seekers.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy elite benefits.
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Although it may not be as showy as some of D.C.’s other hotels, the Park Hyatt is still a favorite among locals and visitors. Paying homage to Washington’s famous cherry blossoms with its beautiful glass mural in the lobby, the property provides a relaxed yet refined atmosphere that’ll help you feel like you’re escaping the hustle and bustle of the city without sacrificing proximity to everything to see and do in Georgetown and the downtown area.
As you might expect, the 220 rooms and suites here are modern without being cold, thanks to tasteful touches of wood and American folk art throughout. Amenities available in all accommodations include 42-inch TVs, minifridges, Nespresso coffee makers and Le Labo bath products.
After a restful night’s sleep, head to the saltwater pool for a peaceful soak amid a Zen-inspired space with teak loungers and Japanese wall art. Or, if you’re more concerned about maintaining your fitness regimen during your stay, visit the 24-hour fitness center.
When hunger strikes, sit for a meal at the Blue Duck Tavern, which serves delicious farm-to-table food from local farms. Popular menu items include pan-seared scallops and pasture-raised chicken.
If you’re traveling during the cooler months, save time for a cup of tea in the glass-enclosed Tea Cellar. The venue offers an impressive selection of more than 30 teas from around the world, some of which are so rare that they cost as much as $300 per pot.
Rates at the Park Hyatt Washington, DC start at $426 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Salamander Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
SALAMANDER WASHINGTON, DC/FACEBOOK
Best for: Cherry blossom lovers.
Why stay here: Not far from the Tidal Basin, the Salamander is a great go-to, especially when D.C.’s cherry blossoms are in bloom in spring.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits.
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Overlooking the Tidal Basin just north of the district’s waterfront Wharf neighborhood, the former Mandarin Oriental hotel offers comfortable accommodations close to some of D.C.’s most popular tourist attractions.
Now named Salamander Washington, DC, this Preferred Hotels-affiliated property houses 373 elegant accommodations. Inside every room and suite, you’ll find a mix of aqua, gray and beige hues, plus dark wood furniture and spa-inspired bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers. Depending on which space you choose, you’ll enjoy views of the waterfront or the city.
While the rooms are gorgeous, the main reason to book a stay here is the expansive spa complex. In addition to offering a number of spa services, including facials, body scrubs, massages and even a seasonal cherry blossom treatment, the facility has a 50-foot vitality pool, a plunge pool, a steam room and a sauna. You can also sign up for private yoga and meditation classes (for a fee) in the 24-hour fitness center.
For a bite to eat after your spa day, head to the Salamander’s lounge-style restaurant. While its menu is a bit limited, you’ll find a selection of bar bites, flatbreads, entrees and desserts to choose from. Opt for a midafternoon visit on Friday, Saturday or Sunday for traditional afternoon tea.
Rates at the Salamander Washington, DC start at $467 per night.
Thompson Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
THOMPSON WASHINGTON DC/HYATT
Best for: Pampering yourself.
Why stay here: Hyatt’s Thompson brand is known for its weathered hardwood floors, accented ceilings and dark gray brick, and the D.C. outlet is no exception. The Navy Yard outpost is a feast for the eyes while giving you easy access to the area’s ballpark and lively nightlife scene.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.
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Drawing inspiration from its location in D.C.’s Navy Yard neighborhood, the Thompson Washington, DC showcases a mix of industrial and nautical details in its design. As you approach this member of the Hyatt portfolio, you’ll notice an eye-catching brick building accented by weathered wood and glass. The look continues inside, where navy blue, gray and cream furnishings combine with black metal light fixtures and modern sculptural accents to create a cool scene with plenty of visual interest.
The Thompson’s 208 rooms and suites are just as stunning. Dark wood furniture features marble countertops for contrast, and floor-to-ceiling windows have black metal framing for a touch of industrial character. The tiled bathrooms continue the nautical color scheme and offer walk-in rain showers, plus D.S. & Durga bath products.
Although on-site amenities and facilities are limited, there are a few food and beverage outlets available for guests. Surveyor, the signature restaurant, serves American classics like deviled eggs and crabcakes alongside inventive cocktails named after nautical knots. Additionally, guests can visit the lobby bar or rooftop bar for small plates and drinks. Prioritize the latter during the warmer months for phenomenal views of the city and the Anacostia River.
Rates at the Thompson Washington, DC start at $250 or 12,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
The St. Regis Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
THE ST REGIS WASHINGTON, DC/MARRIOTT
Best for: Marriott Bonvoy members who want to redeem points for a high-end stay near the White House.
Why stay here: Right across from The Hay-Adams, this St. Regis offers the same posh Lafayette Square location with direct access to the White House, plus suites with the brand’s world-renowned butler service.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn Marriott points while enjoying elitelike benefits and on-property credits, or redeem your points by booking directly with Marriott.
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Located two blocks north of the White House, The St. Regis Washington, DC woos travelers seeking Old World elegance. When you walk into the lobby, your eye will immediately be drawn to the bouquet of roses, which sits beneath stunning two-tiered crystal chandeliers that hang from an ornate hand-stenciled Florentine gold ceiling. Floor-to-ceiling Palladian windows let in lots of natural light, and rich red velvet furnishings create a moody, regal setting.
The 172 guest rooms and suites offer a similar nod to the past in their design, featuring traditional matching decor in yellow, orange, blue, purple, green or cream hues. Despite the somewhat dated look, each space comes equipped with all the essentials, including comfortable Frette linens, 42-inch TVs, minibars and bathrobes.
Health-conscious travelers will appreciate the property’s St. Regis Athletic Club. The facility, which is open 24 hours a day, offers everything you could need, from treadmills to stationary bikes to free weights.
Head to The St. Regis Bar for seasonal craft cocktails, then make your way to Alhambra, the hotel’s Mediterranean restaurant, for upscale items like butterflied branzino and lamb kofta with saffron shallots. Don’t miss the brand’s famous Champagne sabering, which takes place in the lobby every night at 6 p.m.
Rates at The St. Regis Washington, DC start at $387 or 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
The Jefferson, Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
THE JEFFERSON, WASHINGTON, DC/FACEBOOK
Best for: Embassy Row luxury.
Why stay here: It’s hard to overstate the grandeur of The Jefferson’s 1920s style. From the chrome-covered sinks in the marble bathrooms to the stately Book Room downstairs, you might feel like you’ve met Versailles’ American cousin.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits.
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Named after former President Thomas Jefferson, downtown’s The Jefferson, Washington, DC embodies the politician in its decor and atmosphere. Sky-high, curved ceilings greet guests the moment they walk into the marble-clad lobby, and the aptly named Book Room showcases reproductions of Jefferson’s personal library. The latter even hosts fireplace chats with Susan Sullivan Lagon, the property’s resident historian, every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
All 99 rooms and suites at this boutique hotel are equally fit for Washington’s elite. Designed to provide a contemporary take on classic luxury, The Jefferson’s accommodations feature white walls with picture frame molding, tray ceilings and dark wood furnishings. Amenities range from king-size beds and flat-screen TVs to marble bathrooms with walk-in showers.
Outside the rooms, you’ll find a fitness center with two Peloton bikes and a TRX Training Center, among other equipment offerings, as well as two on-site eateries. The Greenhouse dishes up an array of steak and seafood dishes in an airy, art deco-style atrium, while Quill offers modern versions of comfort classics, plus various cocktails with clever names, such as the Your Uncle In Bel-Air, a whiskey-based concoction with apple spiced tea, apple butter, allspice dram and lemon.
Rates at The Jefferson, Washington, DC start at $462 per night.
Riggs Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., USA
RIGGS WASHINGTON, DC/RIGGS DC
Best for: Luxury travelers looking for the finer details.
Why stay here: Offering serendipitous clues to its past as a bank, this 19th-century property beckons guests with its top-notch European brasserie and proximity to the National Portrait Gallery.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits.
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As its name suggests, Riggs Washington, DC occupies the former Riggs National Bank building, so you can expect plenty of nods to its past throughout the Penn Quarter property. Walking into the grand marble lobby, you’ll notice towering marble columns and an intricate geometric pattern on the curved ceiling. To the right sits a bank teller-style check-in desk just in front of a massive vault that once stored valuables.
The bank-inspired touches continue in each of this Preferred hotel’s 181 rooms and suites, which are outfitted with minibars designed to look like safes. Other standout details include Carrara marble showers, colorful velvet drapes and beds with custom Voutsa headboards designed to complement the bespoke wallpaper.
Standard rooms are small at 250 to 292 square feet, so consider upgrading to one of four First Lady Suites. Measuring more than 500 square feet, each of these spacious suites pays homage to a former first lady. If you love music, choose the yellow Louisa Adams suite for its baby grand piano and string instrument wall art. If antiques are more your passion, reserve the blue Caroline Harrison suite, which has an impressive display of porcelain items in honor of Harrison’s part in starting the White House’s extensive collection.
When you’re in need of some sustenance, venture back down to the first floor to dine at Cafe Riggs, the signature restaurant and lobby bar that occupies much of the lobby. The eatery partners with a number of local producers to ensure the freshest, most sustainably sourced ingredients are used in its European brasserie-style dishes.
No stay would be complete without visiting Silver Lyan, the speak-easy hidden within the hotel’s former vault on the lower level. The eclectic drink menu, which was dreamed up by world-renowned bartender Ryan Chetiyawardana, celebrates America’s diverse culture with cocktails like the Jurassic Fizz (made with vodka, saffron cream and apricot caviar, among other ingredients) and the Project Manhattan (a whiskey-based drink with blackcurrant).
Rates at Riggs Washington, DC start at $305 per night.
The Line DC
Washington, D.C., USA
THE LINE DC/FACEBOOK
Best for: Boutique hotel lovers looking for unforgettable happy hours.
Why stay here: Don’t be deceived — just because this Adams Morgan property sits in a converted 20th-century church doesn’t mean you must follow the book. You’ll find cocktail classes and other fun events here, as well as numerous clubs, bars and music venues within walking distance.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits.
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The Line DC is far from your typical hotel, making it the place to stay if you crave a one-of-a-kind experience. Occupying a 110-year-old Christian Science Church in the nightlife-centric Adams Morgan neighborhood, the property prides itself on doing D.C. differently by blending vintage and contemporary designs and focusing on local art and culture. In fact, the hotel participates in a rotating art and photography installation, so odds are you’ll notice something new each time you visit.
As you enter the lobby, expect a mix of vintage and midcentury modern furniture. The arched ceilings and second-floor terraces are evocative of the building’s former life as a church, creating a memorable space that serves as the perfect backdrop for the radio broadcasts that take place here weekly.
Dining options are limited to room service and No Goodbyes, the only on-site restaurant, but the venue’s all-day menu of locally sourced ingredients means you’ll likely find something to satisfy your cravings. Grab a caffeinated beverage from the eatery’s coffee shop or a breakfast sandwich to start the day, then return later for reimagined American classics like a duck breast pastrami Reuben sandwich and baked pimento cheese.
Like the public spaces, the 220 rooms and suites also offer a quirky twist. Bright yellow throws add a fun pop of color to the crisp white beds, which have a curved brass design reminiscent of traditional metal bed frames. Minibars stocked with local and international snacks and beverages come standard, as do old-school radios.
Rates at The Line DC start at $204 per night.
The Dupont Circle Hotel
Washington, D.C., USA
THE DUPONT CIRCLE HOTEL/FACEBOOK
Best for: Understated sophistication in the heart of the city.
Why stay here: Its superb location and cozy, chalet-inspired lobby make The Dupont Circle Hotel a safe go-to.
Best way to book: Book directly for the best rates and packages or through your favorite credit card travel portal.
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Dupont Circle is one of the district’s preeminent neighborhoods thanks to its seemingly endless supply of bars, restaurants, art galleries and nightlife venues. While the neighborhood is home to several hotels, the Preferred-affiliated Dupont Circle Hotel stands out for its sleek, contemporary design.
Each of the 327 guest rooms and suites, which feature a cream and charcoal color scheme, is stocked with all the must-haves for a comfortable stay. You’ll find 300-thread-count imported linens, a marble bath with heated floors and Malin + Goetz toiletries, a Nespresso machine and a Samsung smart TV, among other amenities.
Both dining venues impress as well. Doyle serves all kinds of cocktails inspired by the 1950s and ’60s, plus a selection of small plates. Meanwhile, The Pembroke, the hotel’s beautiful main restaurant, offers a variety of contemporary American dishes, including bucatini with Maine lobster, blackened salmon with lemon caper butter and a pork chop with sunchokes, spinach and roasted corn.
If you decide to bring your dog along, which adds an extra $100 to your stay, be ready for your pup to get the royal treatment. In addition to offering large, fluffy pet beds and ceramic food and water bowls, the property will jot down the name of your four-legged companion so the staff can properly greet your pooch by name throughout your stay.
Rates at The Dupont Circle Hotel start at $314 per night.
