Washington, D.C.

With political leaders from the United States and the world traveling frequently to Washington, D.C., there are numerous hotel options for your stay. From luxurious hotels to more quaint locations, you will have different options to meet your wants and needs. Pricing can be on the higher side, especially during peak travel times.

Rooms

The Watergate Hotel features a variety of rooms and suites, in various sizes and with different views of the city and/or Potomac River. If you are history fan though, you’ll want to try and book The Scandal Room. The room that was used in the 1972 break in – originally room 214. What an opportunity to stay in such an infamous location!

Eating & Drinking

Options abound for eating and drinking onsite at The Watergate. Kingbird offers Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. You can also enjoy an afternoon tea experience there on the weekends. For a refreshing drink in a visually stunning setting, try The Next Whisky Bar. From Spring to Fall, you can take in panoramic views of the city from the rooftop bar, Top Of The Gate.

Nearby

Located on the banks of the Potomac River, you can take a nice walk along the river. Just south of the hotel is the John F. Kennedy Center for Preforming Arts. Northwest of the hotel is Georgetown, where you can find numerous restaurants, shops, and a canal that makes for beautiful photos.

Rooms

I found the rooms at The Salamander to be very well appointed during my stay. It felt luxurious and very comfortable. I was particularly impressed with the marble bathroom that makes you feel like the spa is right there in your room. With plenty of space and clean, comfortable beds, this is a wonderful place to rest up for your adventures around D.C.

Eating & Drinking

The Lounge is the on-site restaurant and bar. It features an extensive menu and is a good option for a meal. There is also a very nice outdoor seating area when weather permits. Room service is also available if you are looking for the ultimate convenience.

Nearby

Less than ten minutes away on foot is the National Mall – home to the Washington Monument, Smithsonian Museums, Lincoln Memorial, and more. Head about then minutes in the other direction and you’ll find The Wharf. With a variety of bars, restaurants, shops, and even a music venue, The Wharf is a one-stop place for entertainment.

Rooms

Being an older building, the rooms aren’t as large as in some modern hotels in the area. I found them to have plenty of room though, and are generally well laid out. Some of the corner rooms and be a little awkward, but if you’re a Hilton Honors member you can see a floor map of the hotel when you check-in through their app and select accordingly.

Eating & Drinking

In the basement of the hotel you’ll find Casta’s Rum Bar. A Cuban restaurant with an outstanding rum selection. There are a number of small tables to choose from, as well as some seats at the bar which I definitely recommend. The food is delicious, the service excellent, and the rum selection I found outstanding. If you’re looking for a recommendation for rum, Diplomatico is my all-time favorite.

Nearby

Washington Circle is just southwest of the hotel, and if you head northeast you’ll find Dupont Circle. There are a number of restaurants and coffee shops close by as well. I really enjoyed The Admiral, which is right by Dupont circle and has a fun atmosphere and tasty food. If you crave a good cup of coffee in the morning, head a couple blocks west to Bourbon Coffee. They specialize in direct trade, crop-to-cup coffee.

Washington, D.C. features a large variety of culinary dining options. You can find just about anything to fit your budget, ethnic, and atmosphere preferences. There aren’t many wrong choices you can make (looking at you, chain restaurants) so this list includes some of my favorites that I think you should consider.

MXDC

Penn Quarter, just east of The White House
600 14th St NW STE 700
Washington, DC 20005
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If you are in the area of The White House, Ford’s Theater, Capital One Arena, of the Federal Triangle, MXDC is a fantastic dining option. They have a full dining room, but I prefer sitting in the bar. If you get there in time for Happy Hour, they have some fantastic deals on food and drink. Nationally-renowned chef Todd English is the Executive Chef/Partner here, and his culinary skills are on full display.

Boqueria Dupont

Dupont
1837 M St NW
Washington, DC 20036
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If you enjoy Spanish Tapas, then this restaurant is definitely for you. With a menu that will transport you to the Iberian Peninsula, you can dine on small plates (tapas) or get a full order of Paella and everything in-between. If you are wanting a table I would recommend reservations. There is also bar seating available, which provides a great view of the bartenders and some of the kitchen.

Suquoia

Washington Harbor
3000 K St NW
Washington, DC 20007
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A restaurant where the food is only matched by the view. Located along the Potomac River, Sequoia features a menu that ranges from sandwiches, to seafood, to steak and will no disappoint. The decor is spectacular, with almost a art gallery quality about it. The view overlooking the Potomac from the outside terrace is simply spectacular.

Monuments and Museums dominate the list of things to do in Washington, D.C., but those aren’t the only things. Here are some favorites of mine along with other activities you may enjoy.

National Mall

Between Constitution Ave. and Independence Ave.
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Spanning over two miles from east to west, the National Mall is home to many of the monuments and museums you are familiar with. It is America’s most visits national park, and the park itself is free as are most monuments and museums. The Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, , Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, as well as over a dozen museums are all on the grounds at the National Mall. There is a lot to see and you will definitely get your daily steps in, so wear comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for the weather. There are refreshment stands throughout, and many museums have food courts or restaurants.

National Archives Museum

Constitution Ave. and 7th & 9th St.
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Located just north of the National Mall, the National Archives Museum is home to many of America’s most famous documents and artifacts. The Deceleration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights can all be seen here. Various other exhibits around the founding of America and her growth through the years can also be seen here. There is no charge for admission, so this is a must do if you are visiting D.C.

Roosevelt Island Park

Potomac River
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There can be a lot to see and do in Washington, D.C., so why not take a breather and relax on a beautiful park in the middle of the Potomac River. Accessible via a pedestrian bridge on the west bank of the river, Roosevelt island is a pedestrian only park. There are walking trails, shade provided by trees, and places to relax and take in the view of the city. If you’re an aviation buff, you might even catch some planes on final approach to Reagan Washington National airport via the River Visual RWY 19 approach. What a sight!

Catch a Ballgame – The Washington Nationals

1500 S Capitol St SE
Washington, DC 20003
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Located in Washington, D.C. towards the south end of the city, this is a great opportunity to take in America’s pastime in America’s Capital. With the season typically running from April through September, there are lots of opportunities to catch a game.