Best Boutique Hotels in Downtown, Washington, D.C.

Take a look at the best boutique hotels in Downtown.

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1

The Hay-Adams

Downtown, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States

Quite possibly the most famous hotel in the capital, and deservedly so, the five-pearl Hay-Adams draws power brokers, dignitaries, and VIPs from around the world with its impeccable service, great bar and restaurant, and elegant rooms, some of which overlook its famous next-door neighbor, the White House. This historic property has stately, classically styled interiors full of Old World details, and its 145 guest rooms come equipped with an array of modern comforts, including large flat-screen TVs, well stocked minibars, and free Wi-Fi. Business amenities abound here, with a 24/7 business center complete with a Nespresso machine, free morning newspapers, and even Tesla car service around the downtown area. The Jefferson hotel has a similar historic and luxurious vibe -- plus added amenities like a spa -- but it doesn't beat the Hay-Adams' location. 

2

The Jefferson, Washington DC

Downtown, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States

A historic luxury property with a boutique feel, the 99-room Jefferson is among the most elite hotels in D.C. It's not as famous as the Hay-Adams, but its subtle blend of technology (TVs embedded in bathroom mirrors; electronic housekeeping buttons) and colonial charms (intimate library, working dumbwaiter) are second to none. It also has a good location, just south of vibrant Dupont Circle and within walking distance of the White House. While The Jefferson may not offer the famous views of its closest competitor in the area, the Hay-Adams (which overlooks the White House), it does have larger rooms and is closer to the action in Dupont Circle.

3

Kimpton Mason & Rook Hotel

Downtown, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States

THIS PROPERTY RE-OPENED AS KIMPTON MASON & ROOK IN APRIL 2016. WE WILL UPDATE OUR PHOTOS AND REVIEW AS SOON AS WE CAN.

4

Donovan Hotel

Downtown, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States

The Donovan House is a sleek offering that's helping define Obama-era D.C. cool along with hip counterparts like the W and the Dupont Hotel. From its dark-purple-and-white color scheme, to its pod-shaped "cocoon" showers, to its mod lobby, and rowdy rooftop pool parties, the Donovan House offers a sexy night in the nation's capital.

5

W Washington D.C.

Downtown, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States

Possibly the most stylish hotel in D.C., the four-pearl, 317-room W has a tourist-friendly location and offers some of the best views in the city, particularly from its rooftop terrace bar. Highlights include three swanky bars, two restaurants, a modern fitness center, and a boutique spa. Room rates are competitive, depending on when rooms are booked, but look out for pricey extras -- fees for Wi-Fi, pets, and valet-only parking can add up fast. For a lower-priced version of the W, guests might want to consider one of the Kimpton hotels -- such as the Palomar, Hotel Rouge, or Topaz -- located in the livelier Dupont Circle neighborhood.

6

The Henley Park Hotel

Downtown, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States

Built in 1918, this well-preserved downtown property features charming old-world decor, a classy lounge bar, and a full-service restaurant. Most of Henley Park’s 96 rooms are on the small side and have only one bed -- making it a poor choice for families. The similarly priced Eldon Luxury Suites, one block away, has much larger rooms but lacks the historic allure of Henley Park. Most of Washington’s famous monuments and museums are less than 10 minutes away by taxi.

7

Kimpton Rouge Hotel

Downtown, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States

This upper-middle-range property is a few blocks from Dupont Circle, one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. With edgy modern design throughout the property and rooms featuring bunk beds, Xboxes, and animal print bathrobes, Hotel Rouge is easily one of the more fun-spirited and family-friendly hotels in D.C. (though couples and business travelers are equally welcome here). Highlights include large, sexy rooms; in-room spa treatments, and nightly wine hours. There are slightly cheaper hotels in the heart of Dupont Circle, but the Rouge delivers more style and perks than most of its competitors. However, visitors interested in seeing Washington's major attractions may want to consider a hotel closer to the National Mall.

8

Hotel RL Washington DC

Downtown, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States

This 99-room mid-range boutique hotel doesn’t have many bells and whistles, but the location -- between Farragut Square and lively Dupont Circle -- is convenient. Highlights include a 24-hour business center, guest laundry room, and free Wi-Fi, gym passes, and shoe shines. Rooms are modern and spacious, and come with microwaves and mini-fridges. Travelers might want to also consider Topaz Hotel, which has a few more amenities and is closer to the action in Dupont Circle. 

9

The Eldon Luxury Suites

Downtown, Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States

This upper-middle-range hotel has 50 large, apartment-style suites that were fully renovated in 2009. Modern kitchens and contemporary furnishings make Eldon a comfortable choice in downtown D.C., but it lacks basic amenities, such as a fitness center and room service. Larger downtown competitors like Renaissance, Marriott Marquis, and Embassy Suites have more perks, but Eldon offers larger rooms at significantly lower prices. Most of Washington’s famous monuments and museums are less than 10 minutes away by taxi.