Directly across from the White House at 515 15th Street NW, the terra-cotta-encrusted Beaux-Arts building that houses Hotel Washington has commanded this corner of Pennsylvania Avenue since 1918, when architects Wyeth and Sullivan completed what was then the city's first fireproof hotel. The facade visible in the images tells you everything about the ambition of that moment — ten stories of brick and limestone faced with ornamental cartouches and classical pilasters, rooftop finials catching the last of the evening light above a streetline that includes some of the most surveilled real estate on earth. The property underwent a substantial renovation that reopened it under Hilton's Curio Collection flag, with interiors by Darryl Carter that hold an instructive tension between the building's ceremonial bones and a thoroughly contemporary sensibility. That tension plays out most clearly in the lobby, where a black-and-white marble checkerboard floor anchors Corinthian pilasters and soaring arched windows — original fabric, immaculately restored — while curved velvet seating in ochre and caramel, open-frame oak tables, and brass-detailed shelving bring the room into the present without apology. Guestrooms take a different approach entirely: walnut-toned headboard panels etched with cherry blossom line drawings, chartreuse modular lounge seating, and gold-framed open shelving units give the 317 rooms a mid-century graphic energy. Above it all, the POV rooftop bar frames direct sightlines to the Washington Monument across dark marble counters, woven pendant lamps overhead, and white wire barstools lined along the counter's full length.

No travel notes provided yet.

At Hotel Washington, the finest luxury amenities and unrivaled sophistication come to life. Since 1917, Hotel Washington has been at the center of the action, known for its roster of A-list visitors, including prominent politicians, movie stars, and even King of Rock 'n' Roll Elvis Presley. Following a thorough makeover in 2019 that blended modern luxury into its historic backdrop, Hotel Washington stands as a beacon of elevated experiences for guests and downtown DC locals alike. Toast the impressive skyline views from 11 stories up at Vue. Explore the city's top attractions-just outside our doors.