Best Historic Hotels in Washington, D.C.

This article is part of the Hipmunk #CityLove Project

To travel to Washington, D.C. is to step into the pages of a history book. Since it became the capital of the United States in 1790, this unique city has seen over two centuries of high-profile historic events, and has been at the center of a nation’s identity. Through international conflict, civil war, issues of race, national identity, and some intense political maneuvering, Washington, D.C. has seen it all, and with its iconic monuments, memorials, and historic buildings, the city is a living, breathing museum.

The most historically significant buildings throughout the city are in the National Register of Historic Places, with many transformed into luxury hotels. The following are the best historic hotels in Washington, D.C.

Willard InterContinental

Two blocks from the White House, Willard Intercontinental has stood since 1816, hosting such dignitaries as Abraham Lincoln and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Charming and refined, the hotel today includes luxury amenities such as a world-class spa and award-winning restaurant.

It remains a favorite for heads of state, celebrities, and political power players.

The Hay-Adams

Directly opposite the White House,  The Hay-Adams is an exceptionally elegant hotel housed in a 1928 Italian Renaissance mansion. Guest rooms are modern, though the hotel has preserved the original high ceilings and ornate plaster moldings throughout.

One of the grandest standing hotels in Washington, D.C., and with arguably the city’s best views of the White House, the rooftop is a local favorite for private events. President Obama stayed here before his inauguration, and other famous guests have included Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindberg.

Omni Shoreham Hotel

A 1930s hotel registered as a Historic Hotel of America, the grand chandeliers and echoing ceilings at Omni Shoreham Hotel have played host to guests such as Frank Sinatra and the Beatles to Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.

This upscale hotel includes 11 acres of beautifully manicured gardens and lawns, an outdoor pool with cocktail lounge, and a full service spa. Unique photography adorns the elegant rooms and suites.

The St. Regis, Washington, D.C.

The St. Regis, Washington, D.C. is where glamour meets tradition. A leader in luxury and grandeur, this historic hotel is an artistic masterpiece visited by American presidents.

Modern rooms exceed guest expectations with an unrivalled night of sleep in signature St. Regis beds, and oversized bathrooms and vanities composed from Italian marble. The hotel is a favorite of royalty, presidents, and celebrities alike.

Hotel Monaco

Designed by architect Robert Mills (the same architect responsible for the Washington Monument), this 1839 Greek Revival building once housed the General Post Office. Now a National Historic Landmark, the building opened as Hotel Monaco in 2002.

A grand historic building with an attitude, and interior design which screams eclectic luxury (striking patterns, bold colors), history and luxury have never come together in a more artistic way.

Historic Washington, D.C. Hotels

No trip to Washington, D.C. is complete without a stay in a historic hotel. With the hotels described here offering luxury accommodation at its best, the nation’s capital is a favorite vacation destination.