From the incredible museums of the National Mall to fun and trendy neighborhoods like Logan Circle, America’s capital is much more than the seat of the country’s political power. Of course, many travelers do visit Washington DC to bring attention to important issues and causes. Whatever the case, if you’re looking for the best hotels in DC, you’ve come to the right place!
We’re covering four of our favorite DC hotels, plus how to score VIP hotel perks at no extra cost.
Want tailored recommendations instead? Connect with Fora to plan and book your trip. We’ll help you narrow down your options, per your preferences and budget, then add in fun extras like complimentary daily breakfast or extended checkout times at the best hotels in DC.
Is it better to stay in or outside of Washington DC?
It really depends.
If budget is a determining factor, there are affordable options both in and outside of DC. However, Northern Virginia (a.k.a. NoVA) and some parts of southern Maryland are very affluent, with hotels that match the upscale vibe.
If you want convenient access to Washington DC’s top historical gems or other fun things to do in DC, staying outside the city may be unwise. Traffic to and from the city can be a nightmare to navigate, and you’ll save a lot of time, frustration and money by staying in DC. (Pro tip: the opposite is also true. If you’re visiting DC to catch a Commanders game, for example, staying in Maryland may make more sense for the same reason.)
Can’t decide if it’s better to stay in or outside of Washington DC? We can help! Plan your trip with Fora for expert recs.
The 4 best hotels in DC
Read on for four of our favorite hotels in DC.
1. Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC: an elite hotel in DC’s charming Georgetown neighborhood
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC
Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC brings the brand’s elite pedigree to the charming and historic streets of the city’s affluent Georgetown neighborhood (which is also home to tons of great shops and eateries). Found at 2800 Pennsylvania Avenue, only about a mile from the White House — you know, where the President lives — this world-class DC hotel is not far from many of the city’s coolest sights.
Now, the nearest metro station is a little far (about 15 minutes away on foot). But the hotel makes up for this with a complimentary sedan service that’ll take you to Downtown destinations within a five-mile radius, which covers most of the city's coolest sights (need ideas? Check out our DC weekend itinerary).
As for the hotel’s style, Four Seasons Washington, DC feels very much at home in Georgetown, with matching architecture and decor.
Fora Perks at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC:
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
2. Kimpton George Hotel - Washington, D.C.: a fun, Americana-themed boutique hotel in DC
Image courtesy of Kimpton George Hotel
One of the most unique boutique hotels in Washington DC, Kimpton George Hotel — or “The George” — oozes with character. In every room, you’ll encounter lavish contemporary furnishings accented with decor featuring reproductions of President George Washington’s first inaugural address. In complementary fashion, the hotel’s common spaces boast tasteful, pop-art stylings of iconic Americana.
Location-wise, The George is only a few blocks away from Capitol Hill, in the heart of Downtown DC.
Plan and book your trip with Fora to level up your stay at The George.
Fora Perks at Kimpton George Hotel:
$50 hotel / resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & late check-out whenever possible.
3. Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf: a lovely hotel on DC’s waterfront promenade
Image courtesy of Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf
An eye-catching hotel on The Wharf, DC’s lively and scenic waterfront promenade along the Potomac River, Pendry Washington DC boasts a beautiful façade, high-class amenities and picturesque views of the channel and nearby golf courses.
The Wharf is just one of several places mentioned in our DC foodies’ guide, and the whole area is part of a concerted effort to reinvigorate the capital’s central neighborhoods. In addition to checking out the awesome (and free) museums of the nearby National Mall, you can enjoy a variety of laid-back watersports, take a water taxi to various points of interest or catch a concert at The Anthem.
Fora Perks at Pendry Washington DC:
$100 hotel / resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
4. Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square: an opulent DC hotel only steps away from the White House
Mere steps from Lafayette Square and the White House, Sofitel Washington DC is an exceptional choice teeming with sophistication and luxury. Even among the most luxurious hotels in DC, Sofitel stands out with its breathtaking presentation and attention to detail.
Sofitel Washington DC blends elegant contemporary French design with subtle nods to DC’s Georgian aesthetic for a look and feel that’s both unique and captivating.
Want more intel? Connect with Fora for the full low down (and to VIP your stay at Sofitel Washington DC).
Fora Perks at Sofitel Washington DC:
Hotel / resort credit.
Breakfast daily.
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Want to VIP your stay at the best hotels in DC? Connect with Fora
Need more recs for great hotels in DC? Connect with Fora for tailored hotel and itinerary suggestions, plus access to A+ hotel perks at no additional cost.
Considering other destinations for your next trip? Maybe the following guides have the right travel inspiration:
This article has been fact checked by Fora Advisors Caroline Murray, Falon Sweeney, Mildred Balzac-Alvarez and Melissa Ranallo, all experts on Washington DC.
