Fodor's Expert Review The George

You won’t forget whose town you’re in, with the George Washington motif throughout this fun and funky, recently renovated boutique hotel—including walls papered with his handwritten inaugural address and pop-art portraits in the lobby and halls. Spacious rooms, proximity to Capitol Hill and Kimpton’s signature perks are some of the many pluses our nation’s first president would—and you will—wholeheartedly approve. Its Bistro Bis restaurant is a Hill go-to for French fare.

YOU SHOULD KNOW As ideally located as it is near Union Station, the George's neighborhood shuts down pretty much in the evening and on weekends. This is not the place to come if you live for nightlife.

Photo: Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

room

The Washington theme continues, with Continental Army blue dominating the sleek, stylish room and brass buttons adorning throw pillows echoing Washington’s military attire. It’s a Kimpton, so you know you have all the perks, including yoga mats in the room, animal print robes, and boutique amenities.

Photo: Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

Photo: Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

bathroom

Washington may not have had sparkling marble in his Mount Vernon loos, but that doesn’t stop the George from pampering its guests with big marble bathrooms complete with double black-marble vanities, polished chrome fixtures, and glass-encased showers and soaking tubs.

Photo: Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants

lobby

The sleek, black-and-white lobby, if somewhat sterile, sets the tone for a stylish stay. You’re introduced to George right away, with Pop Art renditions of the No. 1 Founding Father himself. Contemporary sofas and chairs and chrome tables (not to mention, a baby grand) are arranged for lingering.

pool

There is no pool.

spa

In-room spa services promise easy relaxation.

gym

The 24-hour fitness center features state-of-the-art equipment, free weights, cardio machines, yoga mats, and access to men’s and women’s locker rooms (plus hula hoops for the kiddies).

If you're a runner or walker, the nearby National Mall is a great place to stretch your legs among some of the nation's most iconic monuments.

dining

Innovative takes on French classics at Bistro Bis, by a James Beard Award–winning chef, is a Hill favorite, where politicos return again and again.

drinking

Bistro Bis has appetizers and cocktails.