73 Best Hotels in Washington, D.C., USA

This newly renovated hotel has a stylish lobby; a sleek bar, The Doyle, where dapper bartenders serve craft cocktails; and modern, minimalist rooms done in neutral colors with splashes of orange or purple. The hotel is within walking distance of many Dupont Circle attractions, and its proximity to the Metro makes it a great base for exploring the rest of the city as well.

Given the elegant charm and refined style, with guest rooms decorated in a class above the rest, it's no wonder this impressive Washington landmark continues to earn international accolades for its guest experience. The on-site Lafayette restaurant serves American fare and is the backdrop to many a Washington power lunch or dinner, and the downstairs Off the Record bar lives up to its reputation as "the place to be seen but not heard." The rooftop event venue, Top of the Hay, has spectacular views of the White House, Lafayette Park, and the Washington Monument.

Every inch of this 1923, Beaux-Arts landmark exudes refined elegance, from the intimate seating areas that take the place of a traditional check-in counter to the delicate blooms and glass atrium at the entryway to The Greenhouse, the fine-dining restaurant. After top hat–clad doormen usher you into the exquisite marble lobby, you'll settle into stylish guest rooms with beautiful art, plush linens, Italian marble walk-in showers, and televisions recessed into the bathroom mirrors. Rooms, which aim to reflect the hotel namesake's time in Paris, as well as his Monticello residence, also feature things that even the inventor Jefferson couldn't have imagined, like free Wi-Fi and "smart technology" to trigger housekeeping. This stunning hotel is also dog-friendly, and charges no deposit for furry friends, who are welcome in all shapes and sizes. 

Understated elegance and refined service can be found at this soothing city getaway, where the guest rooms—designer Tony Chi's minimalist tribute to the American experience—feature walnut floors, hard-covered books, and folk-art accents. The spa-inspired stone bathrooms have rain showers and marble soaking tubs. The Blue Duck Tavern embraces local flavors and local produce, while the Tea Cellar, with its unusual collection of rare teas, holds regular tastings.

Whether you are eating breakfast in the formal dining room or unwinding with a glass of sherry in the parlor, everything is lovely at this elegant urban retreat. The Duomo Suite has a custom-made bed and spectacular bathroom complete with a claw-foot tub and rain shower. The Jennifer Green Room has a private patio. But even the more modestly priced rooms, like the circular Lighthouse Room in the mansion's turret, with its red walls and bay windows, are charming and inviting.

The AC Hotel by Marriott is minimalist and elegant, with a European flair (the brand started in Spain). One of the key features is the location: with walking distance to Chinatown, Downtown D.C., and Capitol Hill, the central location makes it a great choice.

Located along a row of quintessential Georgetown townhomes, The Avery is an intimate guesthouse that makes you feel as if you're staying with very stylish relatives. Rock Creek Park sits right next to the guesthouse, which is perfect for a morning run or afternoon stroll. The newly renovated rooms are minimalist, with a pop of color given by the unique wallpaper patterns. The property also has several gardens, giving it a quaint atmosphere. Although in Georgetown, it's a 10–15 minute walk to the Dupont Circle neighborhood, amplifying the dining choices. 

The Conrad, a modern hotel at CityCentreDC near the convention center, features an enormous, light-filled atrium and verdant outdoor terraces. The rooms feature ceiling-to-wall windows, offering a fantastic view of the city. Don't miss the rotating exhibitions of paintings and sculptures of local artists featured throughout the lobby. Also, ask the front desk to make a reservation for a drink at their stunning rooftop bar, Summit. 

Great for exploring Georgetown, this hotel centers on an elegant central courtyard and gardens, overlooked by the large glassed-in lobby and half of the bright, spacious rooms. Accommodations are furnished with a stylish mix of traditional and contemporary pieces in a soothing palette of gray and white with purple accents. The Juniper restaurant serves Mid-Atlantic fare that might incorporate herbs and honey from the rooftop garden and hives. The hotel's canine ambassador, Georgie, a two-year-old yellow lab, is often in the lobby greeting guests. Children can ask for a copy of her coloring book.

From the two giant glamazon murals on the exterior to the dozen high heels encased in the front desk, Hotel Zena is all about women's empowerment. Upon entering, you cannot miss the larger-than-life mural of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in the lobby. The rooms are light and airy and decorated with art made by women. Ask for a room with a view of Thomas Circle Park. If you can't snag a room with a view, head up to the rooftop pool and Hedy's Rooftop Bar for a glorious view of the District of Columbia. 

Elegance and whimsy are in perfect harmony at this popular boutique Kimpton hotel—Washington's first all-marble building—in the heart of the Penn Quarter. Listed with the Historic Hotels of America and designed by Robert Mills (of Washington Monument fame) and Thomas Walter (one of the architects for the Capitol), this neoclassical beauty takes up an entire block. Even if you don't stay here, you should walk through the lobby to marvel at the gorgeous staircase with its domed, sky-lit alcove, soaring vaulted ceilings, marble floors, Corinthian columns, and arched windows. You can see the standard Kimpton pizzazz with eclectic decor elements like lion head medallions, accessories and furnishings in bold geometric shapes, and stunning abstract art. Rooms are as beautiful as the public spaces—spacious, light-filled, and decorated in luxurious fabrics—and boast gorgeous marble bathrooms. 

Draws here include a hard-to-beat location and modern rooms that are not only some of the largest in town, but are also decorated with cool abstract art, accessories in rich jewel tones, and plush purple-and-fuchsia furnishings. Bathrooms in some rooms and suites have Fuji soaking tubs. The in-house Urbana restaurant offers pizza and pasta and is a local favorite.

A former church, The Line Hotel DC was made for those who want to stay among the locals. A podcast studio welcomes you upon entering, followed by an open lobby. The hotel houses the No Goodbyes restaurant, open all day from 7 am to 10 pm and featuring a wood-burning stove and a menu that changes frequently, with ingredients fresh from the Chesapeake Bay. Rooms are small yet stylish, with unique photos, midcentury furniture, and pops of vintage details.

Asian accents, an impressive art collection in the public areas and guest rooms, views of the waterfront or the Mall, and beds so comfortable they make you want to ignore your wake-up call all set a standard of sophisticated luxury. The expansive lobby's floor-to-ceiling windows let you take in the grandeur of the Tidal Basin and the Jefferson Memorial, and during cherry blossom season the Empress Lounge is among the most sought-after spots in town.

With its magnificent block-long lobby filled with antique crystal chandeliers, layers of gold trim, and gilded columns, there's little wonder that this luxurious landmark has hosted presidential balls since its opening in 1925, as well as historic news conferences and even, for a short time, the Chinese Embassy. Even if you are not a visiting dignitary, being just steps from the Metro and within walking distance of numerous restaurants, shops, and tourist sites makes the Mayflower special. The guest rooms and palatial suites, done in shades of gray with bright splashes of color, are, in their own way, destinations in themselves. A stop  at the Edgar, its classic lobby bar is a must for a quintessential D.C. cocktail hour. 

A fascinating history makes these beautiful, 1864, Victorian town houses interesting, as well as comfortable and well-located, choices. Antiques-filled public areas have marble fireplaces, bay windows, and medallioned ceilings, and rooms have Neoclassical, French country, or Victorian furniture alongside modern amenities. The former Morrison home, on the National Register of Historic Places, became noted in 1923 when the Women's Army and Navy League bought and converted it into inexpensive lodgings for visiting enlisted men. First Lady Grace Coolidge attended the opening, and other First Ladies and dignitaries have visited over the years. American cuisine with regional accents is served in the relaxed restaurant, with its outstanding wine list and patio.

Since its opening in 1930, this elegant landmark overlooking Rock Creek Park, a Historic Hotels of America member, has welcomed heads of state, U.S. politicians, and celebs like the Beatles, Judy Garland, and Bob Hope. Today, it is still luring guests with gorgeous public spaces and light-filled guest rooms. Lovingly tended and aging gracefully, its rooms, many of which are larger than normal, are appointed with sophisticated furniture in luxurious fabrics and equipped with small but snazzy marble bathrooms. Families will love the large pool, bike rentals, welcome backpack and cookies, hammocks, and fire pit. Extra effort is made to care for guests' special requests, and the excellent location means easy walks to restaurants and Adams Morgan.

Luxury radiates from every polished marble surface at one of Washington's most upscale hotels, and personalized service makes you feel pampered. The soothing blue-and-gray palette, with pops of red, plays off historic DC Beds dressed in 400-thread-count Frette linens have earned the reputation as some of the town's most comfortable, and bathrooms feature marble tubs and separate showers. Make sure to spend time at their lobby bar, Quadrant, with its sleek decor, perfectly crafted cocktails, and cozy fireplace. Guests also have access to Equinox, a state-of-the-art fitness center. 

Highlights at the Rosewood include the rooftop infinity pool and bar—with views of the Washington Monument, Kennedy Center, and the Potomac—and the personalized attention each guest receives, even before check-in. Residential-style rooms are cast in pewter-and-gold tones and ornamented with sleek wood flooring and sumptuous Pratesi bedding. Even the bathrooms are regal, with Italian marble fixtures, deep soaking tubs, and rainfall showers. The property also acquired several townhomes next to the main building, which they remodeled to replicate the aesthetic of the leading property—ideal for a family or a group looking for luxury accommodations in an intimate setting. 

Only a minute's walk from the White House, the French luxury chain could not have landed a better location, and its caring, multilingual staff offers a warm welcome and great service. Staffers pay careful attention to even the smallest of details and are known for providing expert individualized service. The sophisticated lobby is pleasantly understated, and the chic, though slightly small, guest rooms have beautiful marble bathrooms. ICI Urban Bistro serves artful French dishes under the direction of an award-winning chef. The intimate and sophisticated lounge just off the lobby, Le Bar, is the place for people-watching, and you just might hear a few snippets of political gossip.

Just steps from the White House, this hip property has a living room–style lobby that blends Italian Renaissance with stylish swank, while rooms contain ultramodern furnishings. Despite the hotel's Manhattan-hipster vibe, it's impossible to forget that you're in D.C.: floor-to-ceiling windows in the Mediterranean-inspired Pinea restaurant offer spectacular views of the Washington Monument, and the view of the White House from the exclusive P.O.V. rooftop bar lounge is equally fabulous. The rooftop bar hosts one of the better cocktail hours in town, and professionals swarm in for the views both out- and inside the bar.

Beautifully situated along the Potomac River, the legendary Watergate radiates sophistication and glamour, embracing its infamous past and celebrating its mid-century modern style. Rooms have a 1960s vibe, with rich leather furniture in shades of gray, brown, gold, and bronze. Spacious marble bathrooms indulge with floor-to-ceiling, glass-enclosed showers, and freestanding soaking tubs. Some rooms have private balconies, and all have a view of the city or the Potomac River. Head to the rooftop Top of the Gate bar for end-of-the-day relaxing with 360-degree views. Treat yourself to one of the most luxurious spas in D.C., The Argentta Spa, with an indoor saltwater pool and a wide variety of facial and massage treatments. 

Favored by American presidents and other newsmakers, this Washington landmark, only two blocks from the White House, offers superb service, a wealth of amenities, and guest rooms filled with period detail and Federal-style furniture. The spectacular Beaux-Arts lobby showcases great columns, sparkling chandeliers, mosaic floors, and elaborate ceilings—a Washington sight in itself. The French bistro–style restaurant Café du Parc serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a casual atmosphere, and high tea is served in Peacock Alley. Occidental Grill & Seafood is a top dining destination for its great steaks and delicacies from the sea. The Willard's archives chronicle the hotel's legendary past with photos, newspaper articles, and artifacts. A popular monthly History, Happy Hour mixology series, draws a wide range of locals and visitors.

Experience the height of hospitality at this charming bed-and-breakfast on a quiet residential street near the zoo. With 10 individually decorated guest rooms, this light-splashed home is filled with artwork from the owners' private collection. Conversation between guests is encouraged at the communal breakfast, which includes homemade granola; honey yogurt; plus a daily warm dish such as French toast or quiche. Visitors can enjoy afternoon coffee, tea, and cookies; innkeepers Laura and Raymond Saba can provide recommendations for great dining, shopping, or sightseeing. A two-night minimum stay is required, with few exceptions.

With a hip open-plan lobby called "The Living Room," Yours Truly is a modern bohemian-style hotel in the West End neighborhood. Designed by award-winning Simeone Deary Design Group, who took inspiration from the 1970's Brutalist design movement, the property is perfect for design lovers looking for a relaxed vibe. The love for design extends to the rooms, with unique art pieces in each room, wood and brass furniture with leather touches, and colorful rugs. The lobby turns into the lively, South American-inspired restaurant Mercy Me in the evenings with a live DJ and a full bar and dinner menu.  

The brainchild of former Essence editor Monique Greenwood, this 1890s town house turned guesthouse—one of three inns Greenwood has opened—celebrates the richness of African American literature. Each of the rooms is named and decorated in the spirit of one of the genre's greats, like Zora Neale Hurston, Toni Morrison, or Walter Mosley. Decor is unfussy and sophisticated, with conveniences like cable TV and Wi-Fi offered in every room. Two rooms have Jacuzzis.

Luxurious and practical at the same time, this is a great choice for families and groups because all the suites have separate bedrooms and full kitchens, and some have views of the city and the Potomac River. Amber, brown, gray, and cream furnishings in the lobby and guest quarters contrast playfully with a collection of curated photos of film stars and animal-print rugs. La Piazza specializes in pizza and has a full bar, and the terrace is a nice place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or work.

The choice of many celebrities and dignitaries since it opened in 1943, the Hilton has modern perks like a health club and spa and is well located for shopping and eating out. Black-and-white photographs of D.C. landmarks enhance the traditional and stylish surroundings. The White House, three Metro stations, National Mall, and many restaurants and shops are all within walking distance.

A great choice if you want to stay on the Hill and need some extra room to spread out: all Federalist-chic-style units are suites, with kitchenettes, large work desks, flat-screen TVs, and spacious closets. An eco-friendly sensibility extends from free-trade coffee in the lobby to water-saving showerheads in every bathroom; it's also pet-friendly. Staying here has a residential feel, though it's a short walk to plenty of restaurants and major sights on the Mall. 

One of the Historic Hotels of America, this Beaux Arts landmark built in 1906 has spacious guest rooms that are comfortable, elegant, and include small work and sitting areas; many also have excellent views.