Most people, when they visit the nation's capital, do so to more deeply appreciate history. So why not stay at a historic hotel in Washington DC to add to your experience? There are many hotels in Washington DC areas that pride themselves on their historic value, not the least of which is The Hay-Adams. The Hay-Adams, located across from the White House, holds a special place in Washington DC. This historic hotel Washington DC so loves takes its name from earlier residents of its site: John Hay, private assistant to President Abraham Lincoln and later secretary of state, and Henry Adams, an acclaimed author and descendant of U.S. Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams.
As were these presidential homes, the Hay Adams has long been a favored place for gatherings in the nation's capital. Guests enjoy its unparalleled views of the White House, Lafayette Square and St. John's Church. Opulent interior design, featuring decorative fireplaces, ornate plaster ceiling moldings and balconies, make these suites among the world's finest. Selected in 2004 by Forbes as one of the "World's Best Hotel Bars," Off The Record at the Hay-Adams is Washington's place to be seen.
If you happen to visit DC during the holidays, try the Morrison Clark, a famous boutique hotel Washington DC loves. A Victorian mansion located in the heart of the city, Morrison-Clark is the only inn in the nation's capital to be listed on the Register of Historic Places, making it an intimate historic hotel Washington DC visitors love. Built in 1864, each of the rooms is furnished with genuine antiques, some with fireplaces made from Italian marble. Featuring decorations a century old, all suites have period headboards, chandeliers, luxurious wardrobes and sumptuous curtains. Conde Nast Traveler has named the Morrison-Clark Inn's restaurant among Washington's best, and the wine list has been honored with The Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence for five straight years.
Another of the famous historic hotels in Washington DC area is the Willard InterContinental, just two blocks from the National Mall. Since its historic opening in 1850, the Willard InterContinental Washington has been a preferred location for tourists, whether American or from abroad. Considered the "Grand Dame of American Hotels" by many, and the "Crown Jewel of Pennsylvania Avenue" by many others, the Willard InterContinental plays a major role in the political and social culture of Washington DC. The Willard recently opened a spa, offering men and women's steam and sauna rooms and a wide range of restorative massage, facial and hydrotherapy body treatments.
Having recently completed an exciting $10 million guest room renovation, The Renaissance Mayflower nonetheless retains its prominence as a favored historic hotel in Washington DC. The largest luxury Washington DC hotel, this national landmark is a member of Historic Hotels of America and is located in the heart of Washington's business district. Because of its close proximity to the White House, the hotel is often referred to as the Washington DC White House Hotel. However, it is also close to the monuments and museums, and is within walking distance of the city's most esteemed restaurants and shops.
These are but a few of the more well-known and well-located choices of hotels in Washington DC area. You may also wish to try the lovely boutique hotel Washington DC knows as The Churchill near Dupont Circle, or the Aaron Shipman House if you prefer the intimacy of a Victorian bed and breakfast. Let your nation's history surround you as you explore Washington DC!
