4 Famous Hotels in Washington DC

Washington DC is the capital of the USofA, and so, it's also the centre of political intrigue. A place steeped in history, whether it's museums like the Smithsonian, buildings like the White House, or monuments like the Obelisk. No wonder, then, that there are quite a few famous hotels in Washington DC, and we've found them all (you can thank us later!). Whether it's the Watergate Hotel - famed for the scandal that brought about President Nixon's downfall - haunted houses, or, Victorian mansions. Don't want to miss out? Go ahead and browse our list of famous hotels in Washington DC, and find out more!

Modernist architectural wizardry

• Famous hotels in Washington DC don't get much more famous than the Watergate Hotel! Part of the Watergate complex of buildings famed for being where President Nixon ordered the burglary and wiretapping of his political opponents, it remains one of the most desirable luxury hotels in the city. On the banks of the Potomac River, offering smart, spacious rooms all set within a modernist architectural dream. Plus, there are the amenities: a glittering whisky bar, gorgeous rooftop bar and restaurant defined by the swirling, patterned lighting suspended from the ceiling - it's a symbol of the vision of the 60s.

Renaissance revival

• The Jefferson is a beautiful example of Renaissance-revival architecture, the Beaux Arts popular in Europe. It was designed by Jules Henri de Sibour in 1923 as an apartment block and converted into a hotel during the 1950s. Since then, it's become a landmark hotel for discerning travellers, and not merely for its elegant, classical-meets-contemporary guestrooms with their floor-to-ceiling windows, or, for that matter, its spoiling spa and Michelin-star restaurant; they come in droves because of its history. From the swirling marble stairwell in the lobby, where the walls are adorned with curated artworks, and the antique furnishings, to the sheer quantity of rare books and the 9 original framed documents signed by Jefferson himself, it's as much a museum as it is a luxury hotel.

Victorian mansion

• If you're looking for a property with a fascinating heritage, Morrison Clark Inn is a truly intriguing place. A Victorian mansion dating back to 1864, it was once the HQ of the Womens Army and Navy League, who converted it into a hostel for soldiers; there, the likes of Mrs. Teddy Roosevelt entertained Lady Mountbatten with tea and cake. How civilised! Now, that civility remains the same: though it's been lovingly converted, (the rooms are simple, yet elegant), they still boast antique furnishings, original marble fireplaces, and wide, 19th century private balconies. Whether you're sipping on a martini, Hemingway-style, in the lobby bar and lounge, or dining like a Mountbatten in the restaurant, you'll love it.

For views of the White House

• The Hay-Adams slogan, "Where nothing is overlooked, but the White House", is a pertinent description of the sophisticated, attentive service you get at this elegant, historic hotel; the hospitality is literally award-winning. Set in the 1885 homes of John Hay and Henry Adams, statesman and historian respectively, it stares out towards the White House and the rising obelisk in the distance. It's decorated in a refined, classical style, with spacious guestrooms and suites, each with their own music system, and kids are pampered with fun little extras. The ghostbusters among you may find the hotel's (allegedly) haunted nature intriguing: the ghost of Adams's wife, Clover, walks the floors, everywhere leaving the scent of almonds trailing in her wake... How fun!

Still not sure?

• Check out all of our recommended hotels in Washington DC,
• expand your search to include hotels in Alexandria or all of Virginia
• Or contact one of our Gurus for some expert advice.

  • The Watergate Hotel Washington DC 336 rooms from £372

    
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    City Style  -  An uber slick hotel in the heart of the city.

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the oldest federal cultual institution in the states, the Library of Congress.

    Swimming Pool  -  15m indoor heated pool with 3 lap lanes and a dedicated aerobics area

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    

    A luxury hotel on the banks of the Potomac River. Smart rooms feature floor to ceiling windows, modern furniture, soft hues and plenty of space. Entertainment comes from the bevvy of food and beverage options with a whisky bar, rooftop bar and French-American restaurant. Fabulous. See More

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  • Jefferson Hotel, Washington DC Washington DC 96 rooms from £410

    
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    Foodies  -  Fine dining Plume restaurant holds 1 Michelin Star

    Full of character

    Great walks  -  To The White House or The Washington National Memoiral are both a 15 minute walk away.

    Sights nearby  -  Washington DC is all walking distance.

    

    A Renaissance revival with a statue of Thomas Jefferson and a grand marble staircase, high ceiling rooms exude luxury with big windows. Fine dining at Plume restaurant serves seasonal dishes and an extensive wine list. Explore the city at ease from this prime spot, or relax at the in-house spa. See More

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  • The Morrison Clark Inn Washington DC 114 rooms from £211

    
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    Local exploring  -  Perfect base to explore the city.

    Luxury

    Sights nearby  -  The White House and Lincoln Memoiral.

    Full of character

    

    Washington DC elegant Victorian mansion hotel with antique furnishing, marble fireplaces, in-room mod-cons and modern bathrooms. The dining rooms offer American cuisine in a mirror-gilded setting, or step down to the lobby for a cocktail and small plates. Great spot in the capital for exploring. See More

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  • The Hay-Adams Washington DC 145 rooms from £389

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Farragut Square and the Admiral David G Farragut Statue are just around the corner to the hotel.

    Views  -  Great views from hotel

    Full of character

    Restaurant  -  Recommended.

    

    Award-winning hospitality, fabulous views of the White House. A prime location for Washington DC. Luxurious large rooms with Italian linens and modern bathrooms. The Lafayette is an upscale restaurant popular around town, or head to Off The Record for a cocktail. Prime spot for local exploring. See More

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Written by Edmund Wise

posted Wednesday, 8th July 2020