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

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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.

All accommodations at this convenient hotel within walking distance of Georgetown and Dupont Circle have a living room and bedroom, making it an excellent choice for families. The recently renovated lobby, with its modern and sleek decor, also gives it a business hotel feel. Beverages and appetizers are complimentary at the nightly manager's reception, and the rate includes cooked-to-order breakfast. An indoor pool is a plus, especially during the city's hot summers. 

Named after Alexander Graham Bell, the inventor who once lived in Georgetown, this upscale boutique hotel is on a residential street just steps from M Street's shops and eateries. Rooms and suites are luxuriously appointed, with plush Irish bedding, comfortable furnishings, and oversize marble bathrooms stocked with L'Occitane products. The Graham Rooftop bar is a lively spot for visitors and locals to take in the views of iconic D.C. spots like the Kennedy Center, Washington Monument, and Rosslyn skyline. Cocktail lovers will enjoy their cozy bar, The Alex Craft Cocktail Cellar & Speakeasy, with its dark walls, unique cocktails, and chill lounge music. 

A city within the city is what greets you as you step inside the Hyatt's doors and gaze upward to the balconies overlooking the blue lagoon and the many conveniences within the atrium. You might never have to leave its climate-controlled interior with a Starbucks, restaurants, gift shops, and florist. You can walk to the Metro without ever stepping outside because it's right below the hotel—a huge advantage during D.C.'s hot and humid summers. Guests also rave about the Fit Club (free weights, cardiovascular and circuit-training equipment, saunas, and steam rooms are all free; spa services, personal training, and fitness classes are extra) and indoor pool.

This romantic property near the White House is an idyllic urban retreat—one where European antiques, Asian rugs, and original oil paintings lend a 1929 art deco building old-world charm and where guest rooms feature plush bedding, work desks, and steel-and-chrome bathrooms. There's a small fitness room and in-room spa services, and guests have use of a nearby pool. Café Lombardy serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch; small plates and cocktails are served in the Venetian Room Bar & Lounge.

This eco-friendly hotel, directly adjacent to the Washington Convention Center, spans an entire city block and is capped with an enormous atrium skylight accentuating the dramatic lobby sculpture. There are plenty of fun amenities on-site, including three restaurants, a sports bar, a bi-level health club, and two lounges. The exterior is a mix of glass and steel, yet the design cleverly incorporates the facade of the historic former headquarters of the American Federation of Labor, built in 1916.

If you prefer to be near the Hill but not in a convention hotel, this family-owned, European-style hotel—which offers small but beautifully appointed and comfortable guest rooms across the street from Union Station—may fit the bill. The Dubliner Restaurant and Pub, a lively spot that sits next door, provides in-room dining, and Irish entertainers perform nightly.

Yes, it's a fairly large hotel and can be busy at times, but this historic 1965 hotel, at the intersection of Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, and U and 14th Streets, has a great location and is a perfect spot to unwind after a day of business or seeing the sights. The seasonal outdoor pool, sundeck, and children's wading pool offer spectacular views of the Washington Monument; fitness enthusiasts will love LivingWell Health Club with its extensive cardio and strength-training equipment; and dining options include several bars and restaurants along with a coffee shop. Bonus: if you happen to be staying during the last weekend of April, you'll likely be able to spot some celebrities and journalists in beautiful clothes as they make their way to the White House Correspondents' Dinner, housed in the ballroom on the lower level.

The big-chain feel is offset by a good location just steps away from the monuments and museums; attractive, comfortable guest rooms; and an indoor pool and health club. Public areas are comfortable places to unwind after a long day of business or sightseeing, and the Metro Center subway station is right under the hotel, so there's no need to go outdoors to travel.