By Emma Schmalz and Dylan Shulman By Emma Schmalz and Dylan Shulman | May 16, 2024 | Lifestyle, Feature, Hotels For A Staycation, Travel, Guide, Guides,
For your next getaway, book a room at one of the city’s top hotels, featuring acclaimed accommodations with opulent amenities, cutting-edge culinary offerings and more.The lobby at the Fairmont Washington, DC, Georgetown
AKA Alexandria
Located just 20 minutes outside of DC, this sophisticated spot combines modern minimalism with midcentury architecture into one luxe getaway. A.terrace is the perfect spot to indulge in their seasonal bar among the greenery during the day and end it with a renowned cocktail at a.lounge’s happy hour. Make sure to kick back in the a.cinema and enjoy a private viewing experience like no other. 625 First St., 703.650.0200, stayaka.com
Conrad Washington, DC
Step inside this architecturally awe-inspiring hotel, housing wondrous rooms with high ceilings, inset lighting and floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as sprawling ballrooms and elevated outdoor terraces. Inside the 2,405-square-foot Presidential Suite, host a dinner party for 10 in the dining room, relax before the fire sipping Champagne or regaling an audience while seated at the baby grand piano. 950 New York Ave. NW, 202.844.5900, conradwashingtondc.com
The Darcy
As a pet-friendly option conveniently located in DuPont Circle, The Darcy sports American style with European accents and premiere amenities like a fitness center and coffee bar. After a sip of espresso, look no further for a bite than the in-house eatery, Gerard Street Kitchen. Global flavors in dishes like paratha tacos and Korean crispy chicken wings paired with signature cocktails are sure to satisfy your cravings. 1515 Rhode Island Ave. NW, 844.489.9661, thedarcyhotel.com
Fairmont Washington, DC, Georgetown
A modern paradise set in the backdrop of our capital city, the Fairmont Washington is a stunning locale with grand square stone pillars, inventive lighting fixtures, lavish seating and a lush green courtyard where guests can savor premium cocktails and small bites from the Lobby Lounge. Before your big night out, enlist the on-property Birds and Fellows Salon to ensure you look as pristine as your surroundings. 2401 M St. NW, 202.429.2400, fairmont.com/washington
Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC
As the only five-star, five-diamond hotel in the city, the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC is a must-visit. Once checked in, explore a top-of-the-line spa and the Bourbon Steak restaurant. In the upscale American steakhouse, Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina pairs a signature whiskey cart with refined dishes, which can be enjoyed in the sleek dining room or on the patio. During the warmer months, dine in the garden space or, while the weather is brisk, from a private, heated Chalet Suite. 2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202.342.0444, fourseasons.com/washington
The Hay-Adams
The Hay-Adams is a perfect urban getaway that overlooks the city’s famous monuments. With two options for fine dining, guests can enjoy upscale American cuisine for brunch at The Lafayette before adventuring to the cozy and stylish Off The Record bar once evening falls. 800 16th St. NW, 202.638.6600, hayadams.com
Hotel Washington
Hotel Washington’s rooftop views of DC have been wowing its guests since 1917. Book the exclusive Love+Stay+Play Package for you and your special person in the 1,150 square-foot Presidential Suite that offers up views of the Washington Monument and Pennsylvania Avenue. Even your pup will stay in style with their Pup Joy Gift Boxes. 515 15th St. NW, 202.661.2400, thehotelwashington.com
Hotel Zena, a Viceroy Urban Retreat
Guests can indulge in their creative side while staying at Zena, a hotel with its own on-site art gallery. Celebrating monumental women and their influential work, every one of Zena’s 191 guest rooms and suites includes unique art pieces. Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine with a twist of Latin influence at Figleaf Bar & Lounge, or treat yourself to the plethora of events offered at Zena every month. 1155 14th St. NW, 202.737.1200, viceroyhotelsandresorts.com
The Jefferson, Washington, DC
After 99 years of service, The Jefferson is now the most-awarded hotel in the District. Combining modern-day amenities with classic influences, the renowned stay houses antiques and artwork, plus The Greenhouse, where contemporary cuisine is served underneath a skylight surrounded by greenery. Quill cocktail bar continues this theme, traditionally designed with dark wood paneling and leather upholstery. 1200 16th St. NW, 202.448.2300, jeffersondc.com
Kimpton Banneker Hotel
With a prime location near Dupont Circle, this luxury spot filled with abstract art pieces certainly feels like a home away from home. Le Sel—a modern French bistro with a sleek interior, provides guests with the best food, drinks and service during their stay. If your group is looking for an intimate space to enjoy each other’s company, look no further than Le Sel’s private dining rooms with specially curated art installations. 1315 16th St. NW, 202.234.6399, thebanneker.com
The LINE Hotel DC
Housed in a 110-year-old church, history meets modernity at The Line. Each room is designed to make guests feel like they never left home, with wood floors, art from local female artists and miro-libraries. Indulge in No Goodbyes’ weekend brunch or happy hour, serving a plethora of handcrafted cocktails and imported wines. 1770 Euclid St. NW, 202.588.0525, thelinehotel.com
The Lyle
Step inside and experience this reimagined bank-turned-hotel. Relaxing rooms welcome guests to lounge among neutral tones and natural materials such as Burl wood art deco headboards and Berber carpets. After checking in, stop by Lyle’s for dishes and classic cocktails with a twist. 1731 New Hampshire Ave. NW, 202.964.6750, lyledc.com
Salamander Washington DC
Just a few blocks away from the Washington Monument lies the Salamander Washington DC. Situated in the city’s hustle and bustle, guests are a stone’s throw from top attractions like The Wharf DC. Inside, the height of luxury is the two-bedroom Presidential Suite—lounge in the grand living room with sweeping city views or entertain in the dining room. 1330 Maryland Ave. SW, 844.860.2741, salamanderdc.com
Park Hyatt Washington DC
Interior design takes the spotlight at Park Hyatt Washington DC, promoting a consistent atmosphere of comfort and relaxation through American folk artistry mixed with Zen spalike details. Art and hardcover books decorate the rooms, but this stay’s true star is the Michelin-distinguished eatery. To guests’ delight, Blue Duck Tavern serves rustic dishes from an open kitchen and Molteni wood-burning oven. 1201 24th St. NW, 202.789.1234, hyatt.com
Pendry Washington DC
Located right on the Wharf, this spot celebrates DC’s rich history with modern elegance and waterfront views. Out of Pendry’s 38 suites, The Pendry Suite is not to be missed. Spanning over 1,800 square feet, the room’s two bedrooms, two bathrooms and city skyline views will make check-out a very bittersweet goodbye. Spend your night at Moonraker, the hotel’s Japanese-inspired rooftop getaway, serving light bites, sushi and handcrafted cocktails. 655 Water St. SW, 202.843.1111, pendry.com
Riggs Washington DC
Treat yourself by stealing away to this themed hotel, built inside the former Riggs National Bank building. Here, guests can unwind in color-splashed rooms designed with first ladies in mind. Our favorite? The Louisa Adams, featuring a petite grand piano and music-inspired art, as she always encouraged music at White House gatherings. After tickling the ivories, unlock a world of flavor at Café Riggs. Inside the old bank vault, this European brasserie-influenced eatery serves locally sourced cuisine. 900 F St. NW, 202.638.1800, riggsdc.com
The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, DC
Stroll along the cobblestone paths of Georgetown before you arrive at the historic Ritz-Carlton. Situated just off the Potomac River in an industrial building, this spot dates back nearly a century. Elegant suites draw from residential tropes and include a patio, fireplace and dining area, creating each guest’s home away from home. After a meeting in the windowed, spacious Fahrenheit Ballroom, grab a specialty cocktail at Degrees Bistro or head over to the spa to unwind. 3100 South St. NW, 202.912.4100, ritzcarlton.com
Rosewood Washington, DC
Featuring 55 rooms, including 12 suites and six townhouses, this hotel juxtaposes its classic brownstone architecture with modern art and furniture. Here, the old and new harmonize everywhere with traditional pewter, gold, antique parquet flooring and Hermès leather. If you work up an appetite exploring the property, world-famous chef Wolfgang Puck heads CUT, the Beverly Hills steakhouse nationally renowned for its vegetable and seafood-centric menu. 1050 31st St. NW, 202.617.2400, rosewoodhotels.com/washington-dc
The St. Regis Washington, DC
Upon entering The St. Regis, guests are welcomed with posh Florentine gold ceilings and sparkling two-tiered crystal chandeliers, immediately immersing each visitor in grandeur. Upstairs, the Presidential Suite awaits with 2,510 square feet of lavish accommodations, styled by acclaimed Myron Wolman Designs, with two bedrooms, an office, a living room and butler service to wait on your every whim. 923 Black Lives Matter Plaza NW, 202.638.2626, marriott.com
Thompson Washington DC
Sail away to splendor in this chic Navy Yard hotel. Nautical themes meet neo-industrial style, so depending on your inclination, a stay in this retreat could appear as an urban vacation or a luxury cruise. To keep with the maritime theme, the on-site eatery, Maialino Mare, focuses on local catches of fresh seafood in a Roman-style trattoria, producing seasonal Italian fare. 221 Tingey St. SE, 202.916.5200, thompsonhotels.com
Viceroy Washington DC
A stay at the Viceroy Washington DC is truly a feast for the senses—especially for art enthusiasts. Inside, find a custom salon-style lounge featuring rotating exhibits highlighting local artists and permanent augmented-reality-enhanced sculptures. Guests can begin their day with a latte or gourmet tea from BPM Cafe before grabbing a bite to eat at Dovetail. 1430 Rhode Island Ave. NW, 202.742.3100, viceroyhotelsandresorts.com
Waldorf Astoria
The iconic Old Post Office sitting right between The White House and the U.S. Capitol was reimagined in 2022 into the elegant Waldorf Astoria. Inside, find exquisite furnishings, modern amenities and more. Looking for a little R&R? Pamper yourself with a visit to the Himalayan Salt Therapy Room at the Astoria Spa or take the edge off after a long day at the Waldorf’s signature bar and lounge, Peacock Alley. 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202.695.1100, hilton.com
The Watergate Hotel
This controversial hotel made notorious by the 1972 scandal has since had a reclamatory revival. Fusing state-of-the-art facilities with modern design and Potomac River views, The Watergate Hotel owns its storied past through the Scandalous Igloos experience. These 12-foot heated domes feature iconic moments from the 70s in a clash between the new and the vintage, complete with reinvented classic cocktails. 2650 Virginia Ave. NW, 844.617.1972, thewatergatehotel.com
Willard Intercontinental Washington, DC
In 1818, a set of row houses were first leased as a hotel, and after 200 years and countless remodels, you can now become a part of that history by booking a room in this storied building. Flanked by the brasserie Café du Parc, serving authentic contemporary takes on French dishes, the stay also boasts a full multimedia studio, with podcasting and TV recording booth, in the courtyard. 1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202-628-9100, washington.intercontinental.com
Photography by: Courtesy of Fairmont Washington, DC, Georgetown