7 Best Hotels in Downtown, Washington, D.C.

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. 

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. 

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.

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.

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.

From the location near the White House to the views from the top floors, it's hard to forget you are in the nation's capital when you stay in one of the beautifully furnished rooms here. You can grab your morning coffee from the Starbucks in the lobby, where there is always lots of hustle and bustle with tourists and those on business travel. Runners will love the easy access to an early morning run along the National Mall.

Just two blocks from the White House, this gorgeous 1926 Italian Renaissance–style landmark attracts a business and diplomatic crowd. The hand-painted ceiling in the lobby sets the stage for the attention to detail that awaits in the guest rooms, where Pratesi linens line the beds, LCD TVs are recessed behind the bathroom mirrors, and Bose sound systems play your favorite music. Book one of the hotel's luxurious suites, and you'll receive personalized St. Regis Butler Service—whether you need the newest best-selling novel, tickets to a Kennedy Center show, or in-room coffee service, just call your butler and consider the job done. Add the beautifully curated afternoon tea to your list, especially if you visit during the cherry blossom season.