3 Best Hotels in Washington DC Near The Smithsonian

Washington DC is a truely historic city. Steeped in heritage, it's not surprising that the best hotels in Washington DC near The Smithsonian range from chic stays set in old neoclassical banks, to grand luxury hotels along the refurbished waterfront. We've found the finest to save you the trouble, and the best places to stay near The Smithsonian are all within a 10 minute walking distance. You've reached your final destination, so why not check out our collection of the best hotels in Washington DC near The Smithsonian to find out more? Happy hunting!

For All out luxury

• The Salamander Washington DC is luxury at its best. Perfect for families and businessmen alike, this stately 5* sits above a garden of cherry blossom trees facing the Tidal Basin, only a 9 minute walk from The Smithsonian. The homely-yet-elegant suites are spacious and plush, and there's a spoiling spa to help you relax after a heavy day of sightseeing, not to mention an enormous indoor heated pool, and great restaurant and bar.

For foodies

• Award-winning downtown boutique, The George, is a trendy stay just a stone's throw from The Smithsonian. The spacious, effortlessly cool rooms feature Andy Warhol-esque takes on portraits of George Washington, and his parchment letters are displayed, enlarged, along the walls. Smart, snug and elegant, with marble-tiled bathrooms and free-standing baths, a wine hour and award-winning chef, you'll be spoiled rotten in this stylish, upscale, downtown hotel.

For a chic stay

• What's the difference between a hotel and a work-of-art? According to Riggs, there isn't one. A breathtakingly original hotel set in an old bank building. After sightseeing at The Smithsonian - only 9 minutes away by foot - you can enjoy the spa, gym, French bistro and bar - with one of the most inventive cocktail lists in the city - and you can sip on your cocktail while enjoying the sublime views of the city from the roof terrace.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include all our Washington DC recommendations,
• Or take in our collection of hotels in Alexandria or all of Virginia.
• Alternatively, contact one of our Gurus for some expert advice.

  • Salamander Washington DC Washington DC (Tidal Basin) 400 rooms from £215

    
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    City Style  -  A luxury stay with all the expected trimmings included stylish design, a fabulous spa, and top-notch dining

    Swimming Pool  -  50 foot indoor heated pool

    Opulent

    5* Luxury  -  Very high service standards.

    

    A five-star luxury stay set in a quiet cul-de-sac near the Tidal Basin. Expect all the luxury trimmings here: spacious suites that perfectly mix a homely feel with a touch of indulgence, a spoiling spa, lounge bar and restaurant. As suitable for families as for business people. See More

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  • The George, Washington DC Washington DC (Capitol Hill) 139 rooms from £174

    
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    Sights nearby  -  Absorb some of DC's rich history at the museums and monuments of National Mall.

    Restrictions on children  -  No children

    Lively  -  Hip and happening.

    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.

    

    Cutting edge downtown hotel with every modern convenience. Rooms are spacious, chic and extremely comfortable. Minutes from DC’s hottest attractions and metro lines. Explore like a local! See More

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  • Riggs Washington DC (Penn Quarter) 181 rooms from £232

    
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    City Style  -  The hoteliers have done a stellar job here, blending the grandeur of the old bank building with some cool contemporary style

    Bar  -  Arguably one of the most inventive cocktail lists offered in the city in this elegant bar

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the iconic Washington Monument and the Memorial Mall or the U.S. Capitol

    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.

    

    This is a special place. An old bank building, with all the associated grandeur and large proportions, completely overhauled with gallery-worthy contemporary style. Rooms are all individually designed; there is a superb french bistro and a bar that's sure to keep you coming back! See More

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Written by Edmund Wise

posted Wednesday, 8th February 2023