A Culinary Journey and Luxurious Escape: The Inn at Little Washington Trip Report

The Inn is not a bright new hotel that is flashy or attracts nightlife or influencers. They do not have to — their quality speaks for itself. As a seasoned traveler with a penchant for exceptional experiences, my recent stay at The Inn at Little Washington was nothing short of extraordinary. Nestled in the sleepy town of Washington, Virginia, this renowned establishment exceeded all expectations, offering a perfect blend of culinary excellence, luxurious accommodations and unparalleled hospitality.

From the moment I arrived, I was enveloped in an atmosphere of warmth and sophistication — and no snobbery. The inn's historic facade exuded charm, hinting at the timeless elegance that awaited inside, along with a complimentary glass of bubbly followed by a decadent afternoon tea in the conservatory. Stepping through the doors, I was greeted by a team of attentive staff members who ensured that every aspect of my stay was meticulously curated to perfection. They even handled the bags and delivered them to my room, and thoughtfully plugged in my vehicle to charge.

Image 1: Afternoon Tea in the Conservatory | Image 2: Dessert at the Inn’s Restaurant

The accommodations at The Inn at Little Washington are a testament to refined luxury. My guest room at the Parsonage, adorned with tasteful furnishings and plush linens, with a generous and updated bathroom and foyer. Attention to detail was evident throughout, from the beautifully appointed bathroom to the thoughtful amenities such as complimentary light drinks and snacks on the main floor.

Of course, the highlight of my stay was the culinary experience at the inn's acclaimed restaurant that evening. Led by Chef Patrick O'Connell, the culinary team showcased their artistry with each dish, artfully crafted using locally-sourced ingredients to create bold flavors and innovative combinations.

Arrive early to enjoy the afternoon tea, which is served from 2:00pm – 5:00pm (complimentary with an overnight booking). Do enjoy an aperitif in the Living Room. Drinks are an adventure here, but do not hesitate to ask for the menu to see prices, as their cocktails, wines and spirits can run anywhere from $20 to thousands of dollars. If you are dining at the restaurant — come hungry!

I recommend the Inn for foodies and couples or friends celebrating a special occasion, seeking a classy romantic getaway, or a comfortable launchpad to explore Virginia wine country. Reach out and let me help plan your romantic (or not!) stay at the Inn.

The Inn is set to expand with a new property across the street, behind The Parsonage building. The expansion currently under construction will introduce an array of exciting amenities, including a spa, pool and additional accommodations, promising an even more indulgent and unforgettable stay for guests.

The Inn is highly decorated with awards: The 2024 Forbes Travel Guide awarded the Inn’s hotel five stars for the 35th year in a row. Forbes also awarded the Inn’s restaurant five stars for the 34th year in a row. The Inn enjoys other awards from the James Beard Foundation, AAA and Wine Spectator. The 2024 Michelin Guide awarded the Inn its highest accolade of three stars for the fourth year in a row. It is the first and only three-star restaurant in the D.C. region, and the first and only Green Star.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Washington, DC. In need of further inspiration? Check out Ali Hamdany’s guide, Washington DC's Top Historical Gems: A Guide to Exploring the City's Rich Heritage.