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Hay-Adams Hotel

The Hay-Adams, Downtown
Fodor's Hotel Awards 2011 Grande Dame  |  Winning Attributes

At a Glance

    Pros

  • plush guest rooms
  • impeccable service
  • packages for families
  • almost in the shadow of the White House

    Cons

  • expensive
  • no pool
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Hay-Adams Hotel Review

Given the elegant charm and refined decor, it's no wonder that the Obamas chose this impressive Washington landmark, with guess rooms decorated in a class above the rest, as their first Washington home as they got ready to move into 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The Lafayette serves American fare and is the backdrop to many a Washington power lunch or dinner, and the Off the Record bar downstairs lives up to its reputation as "the place to be seen but not heard." The rooftop "Top of the Hay" has spectacular views of the White House, Lafayette Park, and the Washington Monument.

2011 Fodor's 100 Hotel Award Winner

Presidential Views
The elegance of the historic Hay-Adams is one of the few things in D.C. that transcends party lines and political convictions. Nestled in the shadow of the White House, the Italian Renaissance landmark started out as the majestic homes to two prominent Washingtonians, Abraham Lincoln confidant John Hay and presidential descendent Henry Adams. Since its opening as a hotel in 1928, notable guests like Amelia Earhart, Charles Lindbergh, and Barack Obama have been drawn to the hotel's impeccable service and classic décor. But the clincher for many guests is unobstructed views of Lafayette Square, the Washington Monument, and the White House.

    Contact Information

  • Address: 16th and H Sts. NW, Downtown, Washington, DC 20006 | Map It
  • Phone: 202/638-6600; 800/424-5054
  • Website:
  • Metro McPherson Sq. or Farragut North.
  • Location: Downtown

    Hotel Details

  • 124 rooms, 21 suites.
  • Rate includes no meals.
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    The Hay-Adams Review

    This hotel is in a great location and is a beautiful old landmark hotel. We booked just the base level room, which was still pricey. We got a room facing a building, so all we could see from our window was an office building. Then, the next morning the trash trucks started early with banging and beeping, as the dumpsters were all in the alley under our window. I asked the front desk as we were checking out if the hotel was booked, and she said not at all. So, politely I suggested they not use those rooms unless all others are full. Her reply was, there are different levels or rooms, and next time they will try and sell me a more expensive room!!! Ridiculous reply, and there will not be a next time. Most high end reputable hotels will put you in a decent location if it is available, even if you booked the basic room. The rest of the service was very good, but this first experience at this hotel will be my last. Our room was 430.

    by pgflorida, 1/17/12

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