Source: Courtesy of The Hay-Adams via Yelp
Source: Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Washington via Yelp
Source: Courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Washington DC via Yelp
Source: Courtesy of Rosewood Washington DC via Yelp
Source: Courtesy of The Hay-Adams via Yelp
Washington D.C. may be the capital of the United States but there is so much more to it than just politics.
For instance, the District is home to dozens of attractions, including more than 80 museums, most free to visit. Among the most popular attractions are the Smithsonian museums, the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, the Capitol grounds and building, the Washington Monument, and the National Mall.
Spring is a popular time to visit when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and every four years, thousands will descend on the District for the presidential inauguration.
With millions of visitors coming in, there are hundreds of accommodation options, including some luxurious hotels. In this article, we'll look at some of the most expensive hotels in Washington D.C., and what makes them special. (Washington D.C. is among the 38 places in the U.S. that every American should visit.)
Staying in these hotels might cost you a pretty penny, so it's probably a good thing that many of the best things to do and places to visit in the District are free!
Four Seasons Hotel Washington
We begin our list with the always-posh Four Seasons, located closer to Georgetown and near Washington's political and social hubs. There are 222 rooms and suites to choose from with rates ranging from $854 to over $2,400.
Hotel amenities include a spa and fitness center; a Tesla charging station; a two-lane, indoor lap pool; steam rooms, saunas, and aerobic rooms; and child care and dog walking services.
One thing not to be missed at this Four Seasons is Bourbon Steak DC, a premiere steakhouse helmed by Michelin-lauded chef Michael Mina. Another dining option on-site is Seasons, which services breakfast and a brunch buffet.
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
The Waldorf Astoria is hard to beat when it comes to luxury accommodations, and the Washington D.C. location is a special one. Located between the White House and the Capitol Building, the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC used to be an old post office. Now, this historic and gorgeous building is home to 263 lavish rooms and suites. Rates start at $600.
This hotel is one of the highest-rated in the District, and it's easy to see why. The entire interior is breathtaking, from the banquet rooms to the common areas. Hotel amenities include a spa and fitness center, a concierge, room service, and more. But perhaps what makes this hotel truly unique is its clock tower, which is among the District's tallest and offers 360-degree views. Guests of the hotel can take an elevator up (for free!) to observe the city from a 270-foot observation deck.
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC also has some of the best food in the District with its signature Peacock Alley restaurant in the soaring grand atrium. You can also join in a cooking experience called Wednesdays at Waldorf Astoria, or enjoy Afternoon Tea. In-room dining is also available.
Rosewood Washington D.C.
Rosewood Washington D.C. is a five-star and Michelin-keyed restaurant where you'll instantly feel at home. Located in Georgetown and with views of the Potomac River, Washington Monument, and Kennedy Center, the hotel has 57 rooms, including 12 suites and eight townhouses (pictured). Rates start at $427.
Hotel amenities include a spa, a 24-hour rooftop fitness center, and a rooftop infinity pool. The dining here, though, may be the true draw. World-famous chef Wolfgang Puck opened his Beverly Hills steakhouse, CUT, in Rosewood Washington D.C. There's also the CUT Bar and Lounge, and CUT Above, the rooftop bar and lounge. (Or you could head to one of the District's Michelin-starred restaurants.)
The Hay-Adams
The Hay-Adams' says on its website that it's "where nothing is overlooked but the White House," a cheeky take on its location — right across the street from the biggest draw in Washington D.C. — but also the truth. This five-star hotel has a Michelin Key and offers the utmost privacy and discretion. There are 145 modern luxury rooms and suites, with standard rooms starting at $436 and suites starting at $829.
The Hay-Adams does not have a spa or a pool but it does have a well-equipped fitness center. Room amenities include modern technology such as digitally controlled heating and cooling, free Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth speakers. You also have access to room service, car service, and child care services.
Be sure to dine at The Lafayette, an elegant restaurant where you might run into some political powerhouses, or grab drinks at Off the Record, which also serves light bites. The Hay-Adams has an artful legacy and celebrates that with their Author Series, which has invited authors such as John Grisham and Maya Angelou, and the Music Salons where guests can enjoy live music performances by PostClassical Ensemble. (Which Washington D.C. landmarks are among the most-visited?)