As the U.S. gears up for another historic election, all eyes are on Washington, D.C. The city, already buzzing with political energy, will soon be the epicenter of the nation’s democratic process. Whether you’re visiting to witness history unfold or seeking a captivating escape amidst the excitement, finding the perfect hotel is crucial. Forbes Travel Guide is here to help you navigate the capital’s vibrant hotel scene.
You can trust FTG’s exclusive list — we have been rating hotels since 1958 using an objective and independent process. To find the best hotels in Washington, D.C., our incognito inspectors posed as ordinary guests and stayed multiple nights at each property. The inspectors tested hundreds of exacting standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, which accounts for 70% of a property’s rating. The remaining 30% comes from the quality and condition of the facilities. FTG does not require a business relationship from the properties it rates, and it does not earn a commission if you book one of the following hotels.
Five-Star Hotels
Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C.
For more than a quarter century, Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C. has reigned supreme over Georgetown. In fact, it was the brand’s first property to open in the United States.
The 222-room grande dame has welcomed nearly every dignitary, visiting A-lister and VIP to pass through the nation’s capital during its tenure. See more.
Four-Star Hotels
Once part of the White House grounds, Lafayette Square contains a number of important, historic buildings, including this timeless address.
The guest rooms have a regal vibe with ornamental ceilings, fireplaces, European linens and marble bathrooms, and some have balconies with views of the White House or Lafayette Square Park. See more.
The Jefferson, Washington, D.C. underwent a major renovation, updating the lobby and unveiling an arched skylight dating back to the 1920s. The hotel’s decor and art echo Thomas Jefferson’s taste — most furniture consists of custom-built replicas of pieces from Monticello, Jefferson’s home. See more.
Tucked away in D.C.’s West End neighborhood, Park Hyatt Washington D.C. offers a sleek urban escape in the capital city. The contemporary feel comes thanks to interiors created by famed designer Tony Chi, who used a neutral palette to dress the space, from the spacious, minimalist lobby to the streamlined guest rooms. See more.
The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, D.C.
The upscale Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, D.C. sits on a quiet side street in the heart of the charming neighborhood. It occupies the turn-of-the-century Georgetown Incinerator building and retains much of the industrial feel, but inside, the place is all about modern comfort. See more.
The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner
Well-positioned just 15 miles from Washington, D.C., The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner is ideally primed for business and pleasure. The 398-room property resides in McLean, Virginia’s booming tech corridor, surrounded by Fortune 100 headquarters. See more.
The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.
This West End hotel is Ritz-Carlton at its finest: sophisticated, traditional décor; attentive service; comfortable rooms; and a great location. See more.
Rosewood Washington, D.C., Georgetown is a go-to spot for dignitaries, celebrities and visiting jet-setters alike. While the 55-room property along the C&O Canal may be small, it delivers an exclusive, personalized experience. See more.
The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
A historic spot in the middle of the nation’s capital, The St. Regis Washington, D.C. has hosted most of the U.S. presidents as well as an assortment of royalty and prime ministers. In fact, President Coolidge cut the grand opening ceremony ribbon at the hotel in 1926. See more.
Perfectly poised between Capitol Hill and the White House, Washington’s Old Post Office was once one of the city’s most important buildings — the postmaster general even had a seat in the president’s cabinet. In recent years, it has been restored and reborn into Waldorf Astoria Washington DC. See more.
Recommended Hotels
This artistic Washington, D.C., stay is ideal for business or pleasure, sitting in the heart of City Center, one of the metropolis’ top destinations for high-end shopping and dining. See more.
Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown
Power players have made Fairmont Washington, D.C., Georgetown a popular place to congregate for years, but renovations over the past few years make this gem even more inviting. See more.
Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf
Tucked inside a striking angular modernist building along D.C.’s Wharf waterfront, Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf brings a new hot spot to the popular neighborhood. See more.
The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City
Surrounded by the history of both Arlington and Washington, D.C., The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City offers an overnight experience that beautifully melds tradition and modern touches. Iconic monuments, renowned museums and important historical sights are moments away, and after a day of meetings or exploration, the property offers an inviting respite. See more.
After nearly a decade of closure, Washington’s iconic Watergate Hotel is back and arguably better than ever. Completely revamped in 2016, the property blends the swinging ’60s feel of the original with a contemporary aesthetic intended to appeal to the millennial traveler. See more.
Ideally positioned just blocks from the White House, the iconic Willard InterContinental hotel has been a center of the district’s social and political scene since it opened in 1818. See more.
