The 9 Best Historic Hotels in Washington DC

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Rich in history and culture Washington DC boasts some of the country's most iconic architecture and sights. The hotel options across the city are dizzying with everything from grand traditional hotels to options with uber contemporary design. However, if you are looking to get a good dose of culture our hotel experts recommend choosing from our collection of the best historic hotels in Washington DC. Ranging from intimate 19th-century B&Bs ideal for a romantic getaway to utter opulence - there is something for everyone here. So why not browse through our top picks to start planning your stay?

For a romantic B&B

• Swann House is a 19th-century house with a deep claret-coloured facade. Brimming with character, expect original wood-burning fireplaces, gorgeous four-posters and sateen sheets. For a little extra romance pick one of the rooms with a whirlpool bath.
• American Guest House is a charming adults-only B&B set in a Victorian townhouse dating back to 1893. An intimate historic bolthole, complete with four posters, antiques and warming fireplaces. A homely space, expect hearty homecooked breakfasts and a refined atmosphere.

For its story

• The Watergate Hotel has deep roots in the history of the United States, it was where President Nixon ordered the burglary and wiretapping of his political opponents; thus, "Watergate" is now synonymous with corruption. This modernist hotel offers smart and spacious rooms, a whiskey bar, rooftop bar and chandeliered restaurant. High-tech, sophisticated, and one of the coolest historic hotels in Washington DC.

For foodies

• Emanating in the grandeur of Renaissance-revivalist architecture, The Jefferson dates back to 1923. Enter through a beautiful, classical marble lobby, where the walls curated artwork. A classic-meets-contemporary hotel which doubles up as a museum: it boasts an enormous quantity of rare tomes and nine original framed documents signed by Thomas Jefferson. However, the real lure is the pampering spa and Michelin-star restaurant.

For the design

• Riggs is an old bank building, with all the associated grandeur and large proportions, completely overhauled with gallery-worthy contemporary style. Complete with an excellent French bistro and located just minutes from the National Gallery of Art - this is a great choice for art and design enthusiasts.

For old fashioned elegance

• Henley Park Hotel was once called Tudor Hall Apartments; back in 1918, it was home to the political elite of the United States. Inspired by Tudor architecture, the facade was covered with 119 gargoyles, two of which were depictions of the architect and his wife. After its renovation in 1982, many of the original features were kept intact: the period fireplaces, ornate mantelpieces and glittering chandeliers. The Wilkes Room is a particular highlight, a drawing room where tea is formally served.
• Morrison Clark Inn is a Victorian mansion dating back to 1864, and once saw the likes of Mrs Teddy Roosovelt and Lady Mountbatten after which it was HQ of the Women's Army and Navy League. Now one of Washington DC's best historic hotels, having been lovingly converted into a simple, elegant stay: the rooms feature antiques, original marble fireplaces and 19th-century private balconies. The lobby bar and lounge are sophisticated affairs and the fine-dining restaurant is superb.
• Welcoming celebrities and political dignitaries since 1926, Hotel Lombardy is one of Washington DC's most refined, historic hotels. Beyond the limestone, redbrick facade lies an old-school ambience that never goes out of fashion: dark wood wainscotting, oriental rugs, crystalline chandeliers, original artworks and red velvet chairs. This vintage elegance continues in the French cafe and the Venetian Room bar. Delightfully sophisticated.

A a classic stay

• Sophisticated, elegant and one of the finest historic hotels in Washington DC, The Hay-Adams dates back to 1885; then, it was two different homes, each owned by the statesman, John Hay, and the historian Henry Adams. It boasts beautiful views of the White House and is decorated in a refined classical style.

Still not sure which to book?

• Try this collection of famous hotels in Washington DC;
• See this list of family hotels in Washington DC;
• Have a look at hotels in Washington DC near the Smithsonian;
• Expand your search to include all hotels in Washington DC,
• Or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

 

Written by Edmund Wise

posted Wednesday, 1st February 2023