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.