11 Amazing Washington DC Hotels for the Perfect Stay
Looking for the best place to stay in Washington DC? You have a ton of options! Luckily, I’ve got you covered with the best Washington DC hotels.
The nation’s capital is a popular destination for American history buffs and international visitors. And you’ll need a great hotel as a home base for all the exploring there is to do, from wandering world-class museums to seeing iconic monuments.
I’ve visited Washington DC many times, and I’ve never had a bad stay! Here are my top picks for the best hotels in Washington DC.
TOP PICK: BEST WASHINGTON DC HOTEL
The Willard InterContinental Washington DC is one of the top hotels in DC, and for good reason! With its historic background, grand rooms, spa, on-site restaurants, and excellent location, you can’t go wrong with a stay at the Willard.
Top Hotels in Washington DC
1. Willard InterContinental Washington DC
Price: $$$ | Rating: 4.6/5 | View rates & availability
The Willard InterContinental Washington DC is a luxury, historic hotel near the White House. This top-rated hotel is a sophisticated place to stay in DC that blends contemporary luxury and historic charm.
You can choose from Classic Rooms, Premium Rooms with a view, or their many Suites. Presidential Suites are named for famous presidents, and there are other suites named for other famous figures like naval officers and opera singers. The rooms at the Willard Hotel are some of the largest hotel rooms in the city.
The Willard Hotel is filled with history. Every president since Franklin Pierce (inaugurated in 1853) has either attended an event or stayed in a room at the hotel. Ulysses S. Grant enjoyed drinking and smoking in the lobby, and the famed Round Robin Bar is a place for DC’s political and social elite to rub elbows.
The hotel has a concierge service, the revitalizing Willard Spa with massage and skin treatment services, and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
There are multiple on-site dining options. You have Café du Parc, a quintessential French brasserie; Le Café, the perfect coffee spot; and the Round Robin Bar, an iconic meeting place for classic cocktails.
You often hear the argument that location is key when picking a hotel and so this hotel is a must! I doubt there is a better location in DC than the Willard as it is literally across the street from the White House and only a stone’s throw from the Washington monument. The lobby is majestic and reminds you of the traditional turn of the century grand hotels in Paris or London. Rooms are spacious and while some have already been renovated, even the non renovated rooms are in great shape. Staff were friendly and helpful, from the charming Austrian general manager, hotel manager, reception and bell staff, housekeepers (who always greet you as you walk past!) all the way to the Salvadorian barista at Café du Parc.
– Larusso (see more reviews)
When you stay at Willard InterContinental Washington DC, you’ll be just a few minutes’ walk from the White House and less than a mile from the National Mall.
2. Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown Convention Center
Price: $$ | Rating: 4.2/5 | View rates & availability
The Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown Convention Center is a convenient choice near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and Capital One Arena.
You can choose from King Rooms, Queen Rooms, and Suites. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi, a free hot breakfast, a minifridge, a coffee maker, a microwave, and an LCD TV.
The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center, a business center, EV charging stations, and valet parking. All the rooms are smoke-free, and they also offer pet-friendly accommodations and connecting rooms.
The on-site restaurant, the Sixth Street Bar, is located in the lobby. There’s a daily Happy Hour, and the Lounge is open until 10 p.m. nightly. The hotel is also located near Chinatown where you can find tons of great restaurants just a short walk away.
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay over thanksgiving weekend! Our daughter lives in Capitol Hill so we came to visit. It was close to Chinatown metro so it’s a great location. The staff was very friendly, our room was clean and comfortable. It was difficult to find seating for breakfast a few mornings but it was a holiday so it’s understandable. Next time I come to visit my daughter I would definitely stay again!
– Christina P. (see more reviews)
When you stay at the Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown Convention Center, you’re just a 5 minute walk from the Walter E. Washington Convention Center and Capital One Arena, and a 7 minute walk from the Gallery Place Chinatown metro station.
3. Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf
Price: $$$ | Rating: 4.3/5 | View rates & availability
The Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf is the perfect hotel at DC’s vibrant Wharf district.
You have your choice of King Rooms, Queen Rooms, and Suites with views of the city, the river, the marina, and the courtyard. All rooms come with blackout curtains, free Wi-Fi, an espresso machine, and an HDTV.
The hotel has a fitness center with cardio and weight equipment and Peloton Bikes. The hotel offers valet parking, a full breakfast add-on, smoke-free rooms, connecting rooms, and pet-friendly accommodations.
There are two on-site dining options: The Canopy Central Bistro & Bar serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and evening cocktails. Whiskey Charlie is the hotel’s rooftop bar serving small plates, cocktails, and rooftop views. Plus, you have plenty of other delicious DC restaurants nearby, and plenty of other rooftop bars at The Wharf.
Smells like a spa! Great service! Adel at the front desk was super helpful! The views of the wharf are lovely. The rooftop deck and bar is fabulous even in the winter time. And the free happy hour for guests from 6-7pm each day in the lobby bar is a nice bonus.
– Michelle M. (see more reviews)
When you stay at the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf, you’re just a 5 minute walk from the Waterfront metro station and a 10 minute walk from the L’Enfant Plaza metro station. And you’re only a 15 minute walk from the National Mall, which puts you right in the middle of all the top things to do in DC.
4. Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
Price: $$$ | Rating: 4.3/5 | View rates & availability
The Waldorf Astoria Washington DC is a luxury hotel set in the Old Post Office building, with beautiful 1899 Romanesque Revival architecture that perfectly fits a classy stay.
You can choose from luxurious King and Queen guest rooms or elegant suites, each with their own unique style and reflecting the unique history of DC. Each room is decorated in stunning blue and gold motifs, ornate woodwork, soft chandeliers, plush beds, rejuvenating bathrooms with luxury bathrobes, and automated electric sheers and drapes.
Relax at the Waldorf Astoria Spa for a massage, hydrating wrap, or salt therapy. Get your work-out in at the fitness center. See the city from the top of the Old Post Office Tower (one of the best free things to do in DC). And enjoy free Wi-Fi, a smoke-free hotel, a concierge, room service, a business center, and pet-friendly accommodations.
The hotel has three on-site dining options: Peacock Alley in the grand atrium serves classic dishes and creative cocktails; The Bazaar by José Andrés is a culinary experience of shared plates from a Michelin-starred chef; and Sushi Nakazawa earned one Michelin star for its indulgent nigiri sushi offerings.
This hotel has it all. Location on Pennsylvania Avenue within walking distance of many restaurants and sights is excellent. Hotel is sumptuous and gorgeous with gorgeous details and furnishings. Linens and bed provided a blissful night of rest. Bar serves up delicious cocktails in a lovely setting. Restaurants are outstanding. Service is unsurpassed. All this in a historic building which I adore. Truly, it has everything. We loved our stay.
– Fiamma (see more reviews)
When you stay at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, you’re less than a mile from the White House and only about a 12 minute walk from the National Mall and the National Gallery of Art.
5. The Hay-Adams
Price: $$$ | Rating: 4.7/5 | View rates & availability
The Hay-Adams is a luxury hotel housed in a 1928 Italian Renaissance building on Lafayette Square with views of the White House.
You can stay in a Classic Room, a Deluxe Room, a Premier Room, or an Executive Suite. Each room is designed with refined luxury. Room perks include free Wi-Fi, complimentary daily turndown service with bottled water, Bose music systems, and flat-screens. Some rooms even have a balcony with a view of the White House.
The hotel has a complimentary area shuttle, a fitness center, and a business center. You can attend events like Celebrating the Arts Music Salons, Author Series, Afternoon Tea, and more.
There are two on-site dining options at The Hay-Adams: The Lafayette serves upscale breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and high tea; and Off The Record is the hotel’s basement bar for handcrafted drinks and light bites.
I recently stayed for a few days in January. I love this hotel for its consistently gracious service in addition to the great location, very comfortably appointed rooms, and lovely dining room. My friend and I so appreciated the hot chocolate and warm apple cider that were served in the lobby as we returned each day from our outings in the cold. It’s those little touches – and the genuinely thoughtful service of every team member – that keeps me coming back to the Hay Adams whenever I’m in DC.
– Judy H. (see more reviews)
When you stay at The Hay-Adams, you’ll be right by the White House and just a 20 minute walk through the National Mall to the Washington Monument.
6. Hyatt House Washington DC / The Wharf
Price: $$ | Rating: 4.4/5 | View rates & availability
Hyatt House Washington DC / The Wharf is a modern hotel with views of the Potomac River at DC’s trendy Wharf District.
You have your choice of spacious rooms and suites. Many rooms feature a waterfront view. Each room comes with a workspace, a flat-screen HDTV, blackout curtains, a microwave, a minifridge, a coffee maker, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center, a business center, a seasonal rooftop outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast.
For on-site dining, you can enjoy classic bar foods and cocktails from H Bar, which has rooftop patio access. You’re also just steps away from some of the best restaurants in DC along the Wharf.
Great for location for a show at the Anthem. The rooms are large and the gym and breakfast are great amenities. Highly recommend the hotel for those coming to see a show or those looking to just get away. We will stay here again during our next visit to DC.
– Spencer S. (see more reviews)
When you stay at Hyatt House Washington DC / The Wharf, you’re just 1 mile from the National Mall and a 10 minute walk from the L’Enfant Plaza metro station.
7. Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center
Price: $ | Rating: 4.4/5 | View rates & availability
Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center is a great boutique budget option in Penn Quarter.
The Motto brand has smaller, compact rooms with options for a full bed, a queen bed, or bunk beds. Rooms are simple, feature 50-inch TVs, smart room technology, free Wi-Fi, a working surface, and premium bath amenities.
The hotel has a fitness center, Connected Room technology through the Hilton Honors app, advance reservations for off-site parking with a partner business, and full breakfast for an additional cost.
For on-site dining, you have a diner and coffee bar, a rooftop bar, and a whiskey bar. Crimson Commons is the eatery / coffee bar with American-inspired food. Crimson View is the rooftop bar with a view of the Washington Monument. And Crimson Whiskey Bar is a basement pub with Southern-inspired dishes.
The Motto 1st of all has out-standing staff. For our first time in Washington DC Yardé was very welcoming and gave us very helpful info to help us navigate the beautiful city. The hotel had a great commons area that had great vibes and was a great spot to hangout. Our room was cozy and clean. And Yardé made sure we had a great view. The hotels location is great, you are in the middle of the city where everything is in walkable distance if you wanted to walk and the subway is right across the street.
– Beth N. (see more reviews)
When you stay at Motto by Hilton Washington DC City Center, you’re just a 3 minute walk from the Gallery Place Chinatown metro station, about 1 mile from the White House, and about 2 miles from the Lincoln Memorial.
8. Four Seasons Washington DC
Price: $$$ | Rating: 4.7/5 | View rates & availability
The Four Seasons Washington DC is the only 5-start, 5-diamond hotel in Washington DC. This luxury hotel is located in historic Georgetown.
You can stay in upscale guest rooms with king beds or two double beds, or luxury suites ranging from 600 square feet to 4,000 square feet. Rooms come with thoughtful touches like refrigerated private bars, coffee makers, flat-screen TVs, and twice-daily housekeeping services. You can get views over Rock Creek Park, the historic C&O Canal, historic Georgetown, 29th Street, or the garden courtyard.
The hotel has unique amenities like a two-lane indoor lap pool, a luxury spa, a 24-hour fitness center with locker rooms, steam rooms, saunas, and an aerobics studio. You can also make use of the concierge, dog walking and dog sitting services, babysitting services, shoe-care, and personal shopping.
There are two on-site dining options: Bourbon Steak is a New American steakhouse, considered one of the best restaurants in Georgetown; plus The Lounge at Bourbon Steak is a great place to sip cocktails in plush armchairs or outside by the firepit; and Seasons is the hotel’s sophisticated breakfast spot.
An amazing experience from being greeted at the entrance and front desk to the time we said goodbye. The hotel is in a great location if you’re interested in Georgetown. Rooms and staff are simply first-rate. And that BED! The famous Four Seasons bed and bedding ..simply bliss. This was my first stay at a Four Seasons, but it will be my first choice from now on.
– Paul B. (see more reviews)
When you stay at the Four Seasons Washington DC, you’ll be in beautiful historic Georgetown, just an 11 minute walk from the Foggy Bottom metro station and 2.5 miles from the National Mall.
9. Grand Hyatt Washington
Price: $$ | Rating: 4.4/5 | View rates & availability
The Grand Hyatt Washington is an elegant, upscale hotel in Penn Quarter for a sleek and modern stay.
You can choose from rooms with double beds, queen beds, king beds, or suites. Get a room with a city view or an atrium view. Each room features convenient charging stations, flat-screen TVs, a coffee maker, a minifridge and Balmain bath amenities.
The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center, luxury shopping and dining right outside the front doors, access to the Grand Club Lounge, free Wi-Fi, a concierge, and valet and self-parking.
On-site, there are three dining options: Cure Bar & Bistro is the hotel’s signature restaurant that’s a blend of French and Japanese cuisine; Cabinet is the hotel’s breakfast spot; and there’s a Starbucks cafe in the lobby. The hotel also hosts culinary classes like sushi-making, chocolate-making, and wine tasting.
The hotel lobby is simply gorgeous as you step inside and although it is the heart of DC, you could hear a pin drop. If you are looking for a luxurious stay with the height of customer service, you will want to stay here. I was there with my daughter and her best friend for a concert and we had a wonderful time. The staff was wonderful and very attentive, asking how they can assist you or wishing you a good day. The gift shop on premise is very large, containing anything you may have forgotten, snacks, gifts to lovely coach purses. The room was spotless and the bathroom was beautiful with a large step in glass shower and oversized shower head.
– Shannon S. (see more reviews)
When you stay at the Grand Hyatt Washington, you’re just an 8 minute walk from the Capital One Arena and an 11 minute walk from the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
10. The Jefferson Hotel
Price: $$$ | Rating: 4.8/5 | View rates & availability
The Jefferson Hotel is a landmark luxury DC hotel set in a 1926 Beaux Arts building in Downtown. It’s one of DC’s most awarded hotels, so you know it’s worth the stay!
Rooms and suites at this iconic hotel include king-sized beds, marble bathrooms, walk-in showers, an an in-mirror bathroom TV. Rooms also come with complimentary Wi-Fi, twice-daily housekeeping, filtered water, and a fully-stocked refreshment center.
The hotel also has a 24-hour fitness center, access to a pool and expanded fitness center across the street, and contactless check-in. The hotel is dog-friendly and provides dog bowls and beds, filtered water, treats, and walking maps.
There are two on-site dining options: The Greenhouse has eclectic fare for all-day dining and brunch under the hotel’s stunning skylight; and Quill is a relaxed space for creative cocktails and contemporary comfort food.
This hotel is absolute perfection. Perfect location, staff, rooms etc. Check in was a breeze. Room was ready when we arrived. The staff when we are coming in or leaving always acknowledged us with a hello, have a great day and welcome back when we return. We stayed in a one bedroom which was large and beautifully decorated. The bathroom was big and water pressure in shower was amazing. There was a small terrace with our room which was lovely to sit outside and have coffee. This will be our hotel go to in DC anytime we return. Thank you Jefferson Hotel Staff for a wonderful experience!
– Terese H. (see more reviews)
When you stay at The Jefferson Hotel, you’ll be in the heart of Downtown Washington DC, less than 1 mile from the White House and just 1 mile from the Washington Monument.
11. Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC
Price: $$ | Rating: 4.3/5 | View rates & availability
The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC is a vibrant upscale hotel housed in the old 1839 neoclassical General Post Office.
The welcoming rooms and suites have a contemporary design featuring geometric shapes, warm wood tones, and royal hues. Each room has vaulted ceilings, plenty of natural light, luxury Atelier Bloem bath amenities, and king, queen, or double beds.
The hotel has a 24-hour fitness center, yoga mats for your use in each guestroom, a complimentary afternoon select beverages and lite bites, vale parking, an evening wine hour, complimentary morning coffee and tea, and pet-friendly rooms.
The on-site dining, Dirty Habit, is a restaurant and bar with a large outdoor patio, craft cocktails, and innovative sharable plates.
We stayed for NYE and the hotel was excellent. The historic building is gorgeous. I loved the high ceilings and architectural details. Located near the Capital One Arena and National Portrait Gallery. Bryan at the complimentary happy hour was so hospitable to all of the guests.
– Angela A. (see more reviews)
When you stay at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC, you’ll be in the heart of Penn Quarter just a 2 minute walk from the Capital One Arena and less than a half mile from the National Mall.
DC Hotels Map
Ready to book your stay in Washington DC? Use the map below to find all the best Charleston hotels listed in this post.
I hope you have an amazing trip to Washington DC!
Where to Stay in Washington DC FAQ
What area of Washington DC is best to stay in?
The best area to stay in Washington DC depends on your interests. For first-time visitors, I recommend staying in Downtown or Penn Quarter as these neighborhoods offer great proximity to major attractions like the National Mall and museums.
Georgetown is perfect if you’re looking for charming streets, shopping, and waterfront dining. Dupont Circle has a vibrant nightlife and cultural scene, while Capitol Hill is great for history lovers. If you prefer luxury, Foggy Bottom and West End have high-end hotels near the Kennedy Center.
How many hotels are in Washington DC?
There are about 149 hotels in Washington DC and about 772 hotels within the Greater Washington Metropolitan Area.
How many nights should I stay in Washington DC?
I recommend staying three to four-nights in DC for first-time visitors. This will allow you enough time to see major attractions like the National Mall, Smithsonian museums, and monuments while also enjoying neighborhoods like Georgetown or Dupont Circle.
If you want to take your time or visit additional sites like Arlington Cemetery or Mount Vernon, I recommend staying five nights or more.
What is the safest area to stay when visiting Washington DC?
Some of the safest areas to stay in Washington DC include Foggy Bottom, Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and Penn Quarter. These neighborhoods are well-patrolled, popular with tourists, and have plenty of restaurants, shops, and hotels. Capitol Hill and the West End are also safe choices, especially near major landmarks and government buildings.
Save on Washington DC’s Top Attractions
Want to save big on Washington DC’s top attractions? With the Washington DC Sightseeing Pass, you can save up to 60% on the cost of entrance tickets to museums, tours, and attractions all around the city!
Visit bucket list attractions, enjoy top tours, and discover hidden gems handpicked by local experts. With one price and one pass, you have everything you need right on your phone. This is the perfect pass for visiting Washington DC!
Where to Stay in Washington DC
Find the perfect place to rest your head on your visit to Washington DC, from the top rated accommodations to unique stays you can’t get anywhere else.
- Where We Stayed: Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center or the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf
- Top Hotel: The Hay-Adams
- Great Value: Phoenix Park Hotel
- Unique Stay: Unique DC Row House Near Historic H Street
Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center
We enjoyed our stay at the Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center when attending an event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
This hotel has a great location. It’s just on the edge of Chinatown and is within easy walking distance to the National Mall and all the tourist hot spots. There are plenty of restaurant options and nightlife nearby.
Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf
We love the location of the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf, though the hotel’s customer service could use some work.
The Wharf is a great spot to be for beautiful waterfront views and lots of dining and nightlife. It’s also only a 10-15 minute walk from two different Metro stations, and it’s really easy to get to and from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
More Things to Do in Washington DC
Explore even more of the nation’s capital! Check out these other top tips for visiting Washington DC.
- 45+ Best Things to Do in Washington DC
- 27 Free Things to Do in Washington DC
- 21 Best Restaurants in Washington DC
- 12 Best Washington DC Bars, from Rooftops to Political Hangouts
- 10 Best Washington DC Tours That Are Worth the Money
- Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC
- 4 Best Rooftop Bars at The Wharf in Washington DC
- Visiting the Smithsonian Castle in Washington DC
- 6 Best Restaurants in Chinatown DC
- One Day in Alexandria, Virginia: Day Trip from Washington DC
- One Day in Baltimore, Maryland: Day Trip from Washington DC
Ready to visit Washington DC? Plan your trip with these tips.
- Book Your Flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
- Find Accommodation: You can find top hotels in Washington DC using Hotels.com.
- Start Packing: Check out my packing list resources so you’re prepared for your trip.
- Explore DC in a New Way: Enjoy a Mystery Picnic in Washington DC to discover more of the city.
Cheers!
Paige
Which of these hotels in Washington DC will you stay at? Let me know in the comments!
