Stories and photos by Roxie LaFever (unless otherwise indicated)
The Metro DC Area is filled with hotels from high end to economy. Many chains exist from those specializing in short term stays to long term suites with kitchenettes or free breakfast included. Search engines allow you to select by neighborhood, proximity to local sights and even based on proximity to metro stops. This list offers a few options that are more unique due to location, history, or neighborhood for your consideration.
Intercontinental – the Willard
When walking into The Willard, history is present. Visitors are welcomed by a beautiful lobby that President Roosevelt frequented often. This is the lobby where the term “lobbyist” was born, since those trying to influence found out that the President often walked the two blocks from the White House and sat in the lobby to enjoy a good cigar. Lobbyists began joining him regularly as well. The Willard is a highly rated hotel and although visitors will feel the splendor, they will not be intimidated. Visitors are welcomed to enjoy the French cuisine in the restaurant, the ambiance of the rooms, and the Concierge’s assistance. Please make sure to spend some time in the small corner bar – known as the Round Robin – where politicians have met since the time of Abraham Lincoln. Other visitors have included the likes of Mark Twain and Walt Whitman. Now an Intercontinental Hotel, their information is available at www.willardwashington.com.
The Watergate Hotel
With luxury accommodations and an excellent location overlooking the Potomac next door to the Kennedy Center, The Watergate has hosted government power brokers and glamorous celebrities. It is well-known for its scandalous past – thanks to President Nixon – but who wouldn’t want the bragging rights for having stayed here? Be welcomed by the dramatic copper lobby, stately rooms, and enjoy the people watching in the restaurants and spa. Check their availability at https://www.thewatergatehotel.com/.
Canopy by Hilton Washington DC – The Wharf
The Canopy by Hilton is centrally located on the Potomac River about a mile’s walk from the Washington Monument. The hotel is near the center of the National Mall, and as the photo shows, the U.S. Capitol is just beyond. The Canopy is also easy walking distance to the Arena Stage Theater and the bars and restaurants at the DC Wharf area. It has been newly redecorated and has a view to please. All rooms are 100% smoke-free, some are pet-friendly, and after a day of sightseeing, there’s a fitness center for those with residual energy. Check them out at https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dcacupy-canopy-washington-dc-the-wharf/.
Gaylord Convention Center
Even the locals like to visit the Gaylord, sit in the open piano bar area inside the glass atrium, and listen to the fountains while having a drink during Happy Hour. With several restaurant offerings available within the facility, as well everything the National Harbor has to offer, Gaylord Convention Center is a great place to stay. They even have a ferris wheel. While it is attached to a Convention Center, it does not feel like it with many amenities including a Spa, and over the winter holidays they even have ice festivals. Check out everything this huge facility has to offer at https://www.nationalharbor.com/gaylord-national/.
Grand Hyatt Washington
The great thing about the Grand Hyatt is its location – close to the White House and Old Ebbitt Grill. Plus “Metro Center” access right from the lobby means you can catch a train to anywhere on the red, orange, silver or blue lines without even stepping outside. Offering all the amenities visitors expect at a Hyatt, see their site for the details on rooms, fitness center and events at https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/washington-dc/grand-hyatt-washington/wasgh.
Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington
This 5-star hotel is known for its boutique luxury and is in Georgetown near the university. The Ritz-Carlton offers Potomac River views from luxury suites, a fitness center and spa, wellness rooms and a tree-shaded River path. The hotel is just two miles from the White House but away from the downtown urban feel. Suites here start at about 1,000 square feet and go up to almost 3,000 square feet – just like living in your own home, but with room service.
The Georgetown Inn
Georgetown has another boutique offering that has been serving the neighborhood for over 50 years. Character and opulence go together with The Georgetown Inn, located just north of the center of Georgetown on Wisconsin Avenue. Some unique offerings are 24-hour valet service – so just toss them your keys when you arrive – a complimentary membership at the Washington Sports Club on M Street, 24-hour Bellman, and 24-hour Business Center. Also, Spa Services can be offered in-room. Check out other forms of pampering at https://www.georgetowninn.com/.
The Hay-Adams Capital Getaway
The Hays-Adams is a historical boutique hotel with the best location in Washington, DC. It is next door to the White House and attendance at special events held on the rooftop is kind of like spying down on your next-door neighbor, only the Secret Service is spying back. With only 124 guest rooms and 21 deluxe suites, guests can hob knob with other power brokers or celebrities. This luxury hotel is named after distinguished residents and prior homeowners, John Hay and Henry Adams. John Hay was President Lincoln’s personal secretary and later served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom and was Secretary of State to both William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt. Henry Adams, descended from Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, was a historian and Harvard professor. If ever invited to an event at the Hays-Adams – attend. Or reserve a room for a special occasion at www.hayadams.com
Morrison House, Alexandria
The smallest hotel we are recommending looks and feels like a Southern Plantation and was designed and built to reflect a Federalist Mansion. With only 45 guest rooms and suites, a parlor, library, cozy dining area and the Study (cocktail bar), it feels like home. But no worries as guests are offered valet parking and a 24-hour concierge to meet any unanticipated needs. Check to see when live entertainment is offered in The Study. Sometimes they even allow guests to sing along. Information available at https://morrisonhouse.com/.
