Hotel Madera
1310 New Hampshire Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20036, United States
Why We Like It
We like the fact this is a smaller boutique hotel, very down-to-earth and casual. That said, the staff is awesome. It's truly a cozy home away from home.
Fodor's Expert Review
You may be in D.C. for meetings or pounding the pavement to see all the sights, but you’ll immediately fall into Hotel Madera’s warm, cozy embrace (Spanish for refined timber), a soothing retreat for the urban weary near Dupont Circle. Neutral shades punctuated with bright batiks, an earthy, market-to-dining restaurant, and all the Kimpton perks (including the evening wine reception and yoga mats in the rooms) ensure a beautifully tranquil stay.
You Should Know A $21 facilities fee per night (plus tax) is added to the bill; it includes upgraded Wi-Fi, local and domestic long-distance phone calls, and car service within 2 miles of the hotel.
Recommended Fodor’s Video
Room
The Madera’s rooms are perfectly appointed along with a globally inspired theme by Seattle-based Dawson Design Associates. Neutral-shade woods are accented with colorful pillows, throws, and rugs. A beautiful armoire and contemporary drapery, plus carpeting with a kimono pattern, add to the urban refuge feel. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and all come with yoga mats and umbrellas.
Tip The front-facing rooms have balconies.
Bathroom
The bathrooms are tiny and traditional, with the shower and toilet a bit too close for our taste (a major reno apparently is underway to create larger bathroom spaces). The Speakman showerheads and Gilchrist & Soames toiletries are primo, with the single-sink vanity decked out in espresso wood topped with granite.
Lobby
The space is tiny and narrow, with just a leather-stitched reception desk and custom seating for six, but it gives you a soothing welcome to this urban oasis with its mix of natural colors and materials. The wine reception takes place here in the evenings (which can be a bit cramped). A lobby refresh is allegedly underway.
Pool
There is no pool.
Spa
There is no spa, though in-room spa services can be arranged.
Gym
There is no gym, but guests are given complimentary access to the gym at Hotel Palomar around the corner.
Dining
Firefly is a favorite neighborhood restaurant, featuring contemporary, seasonal takes on American classics (crispy oysters with a cornmeal crust and lemon remoulade; mini pot roast with port wine demi). It's built around a large indoor tree, complemented with wood accents and cozy lighting.
Tip Firefly has an awesome weekend brunch, with $3 mimosas!
Drinking
Classic craft cocktails, created with house-made syrups and small-batch liquors, are served in the Firefly's bar area; the menu also offers an all-American wine list and craft beers.
What's Nearby
Getting Around
Hotel Madera is located less than two blocks from Dupont Circle, where you’ll find the closest Metro stop. Parking is not easy (and it's expensive if you valet); you're better off without a car. You’re about ten blocks from the White House and National Mall.
Restaurants
Check the blackboard of Hank’s Oyster Bar (11-minute walk) to choose from at least five different kinds of fresh oysters, all of which can be fried, raw or broiled with butter and hot sauce; New England seafood, including lobster rolls, along with southern-style specialties are also available at this lively fish restaurant. For some of the best Indian around, head to Rasika (5-minute walk).
Bars
The swanky Bar Dupont (6-minute walk) fills up with the afterwork crowd sipping handcrafted cocktails and settling into the chic leather chairs; the outdoor terrace is the place to be on a warm day or night. For a taste of old Washington, the Eighteenth Street Lounge (6-minute walk) occupies a rambling old townhouse, with a breezy rooftop patio. And you can't go wrong with the cozy bar at the Tabard Inn (7-minute walk); sip drinks in front of the roaring fire.
Photos
Quick Facts
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