The hype
The location and rooftop views are unbeatable, but the rooms are small and the extra fees are frustrating.
Hotel Washington
$250-$400/ night
Book this if You want to be steps from the White House with unparalleled rooftop views and don't mind paying luxury prices for a historic, moody vibe.
Why People Love It
- VUE Rooftop bar with direct White House and Washington Monument views
- Incredible location just steps from the National Mall and museums
- Beautiful 1917 Beaux-Arts architecture mixed with modern, edgy design
Quick Take: You're paying a massive premium for the zip code and the rooftop view, but the standard rooms are tiny and the hidden fees add up fast.
Reviewed by @selinagissele: I stayed in this gorgeous suite at Hotel Washington and the modern, moody vibe is unmatched. The massive living area and that incredible marble bathroom with the soaking tub made it the perfect luxe city escape. Highly recommend for a DC getaway!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Street noise and thin walls can disrupt sleep, and some bathrooms show signs of wear and tear despite the luxury price tag.
- Sightseers wanting to walk to the monuments
- Couples looking for a romantic rooftop cocktail spot
- Travelers who prioritize location over room size
Cleanliness & Maintenance
7
- Housekeeping: Daily cleaning is provided, but reviews are mixed—some praise spotless rooms, while others note missed dust and inconsistent service.
- Bathroom hygiene: Bathrooms are modern but small; some guests report pristine conditions while others complain about worn grout and slow drains.
- Maintenance: The historic 1917 building shows its age in spots, with occasional reports of peeling paint or scuffed walls despite renovations.
- Linens & towels: High marks for crisp Egyptian cotton sheets, down comforters, and plush towels.
- Odors & scents: Generally fresh, though the lobby features a distinct, moody signature scent and the hotel strictly enforces a $300 smoking fine.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Sirens and traffic from the busy 15th Street corridor
- Hallway chatter due to thin doors
- Bass and crowd noise from the VUE Rooftop on the highest floors
Before you book
Good to know
- The $42 daily destination fee includes a $15 daily credit to Fireclay restaurant
- The hotel is completely smoke-free with a strict $300 fine
- No self-parking available on-site, only $80/night valet
What to pack
- Comfortable walking shoes (you are steps from the National Mall)
- Earplugs (to combat street and hallway noise)
- Smart-casual attire (for the upscale VUE rooftop bar)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Monument View Premier King for iconic DC views right from your bed
- City View Deluxe for a bit more space and natural light
Rooms to avoid
- Standard Classic Rooms (too cramped at 245 sq ft)
- Rooms on the 10th floor directly below the VUE rooftop bar (foot traffic and music noise)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi team, I'm excited for my stay! Could I please request a room on a higher floor away from the elevators, and ideally not directly under the VUE rooftop bar to ensure a quiet night's sleep? A Monument view would be amazing if available!”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a pool?
No, the hotel does not have a swimming pool, but it does have a full-service spa and a 24-hour fitness center.
How much is parking?
Valet parking is $80 per night with in-and-out privileges. There is no self-parking, and the garage has a 6'8" height limit.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, dogs up to 40 lbs are allowed for a $35/day fee plus a $100 non-refundable deep cleaning fee.
What is the destination fee?
It's $42 per day and includes Wi-Fi, 24-hour gym access, two waters, and a $15 daily credit to the on-site Fireclay restaurant.
Can you see the White House from the rooms?
Only from specific Monument View rooms and suites, but everyone can see it from the VUE Rooftop bar on the 11th floor.
Is there a gym?
Yes, there is a 24-hour fitness center available to guests, included in the destination fee.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use your $15 daily destination fee credit for morning coffee or breakfast at Fireclay.
- ✨
You don't need to be a guest to visit VUE Rooftop, but make a reservation around sunset for the best experience.
- ✨
Skip the $80 valet and use a parking app like SpotHero to find a cheaper garage nearby, or just rely on the Metro.
5 things to know before you go
💡The hotel was formerly the W Hotel, and it still retains some of that dark, moody, nightclub-esque decor.
💡Standard rooms lack bathtubs, featuring only rainfall showers.
💡The elevators can be slow during peak times, especially when the rooftop bar gets busy.
💡The $42 destination fee includes $8 off snacks at the front desk market.
💡You are literally across the street from the US Treasury and steps from the White House lawn.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Hotel Washington is located and what's nearby.