Washington DC: Willard Intercontinental Hotel (4 Star Hotel)

0.3 business

Address: 1401 pennsylvania ave nw , Washington 20004, United states
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Lonely Planet review

  • Ryan Ver Berkmoes
  • Lonely Planet author
In a town where connections are everything, the Willard is about as connected as you can get. Luminaries (and low-lifes) from almost every administration can be found wining and dining (although the current crop doesn't do much of the former) in the elegant restaurants and bar.

So much is the Willard a part of the official Washington scene that it's hard to believe that it was a derelict hulk in the 1970s and early 1980s, but then so was much in DC at that time. A truly prodigal renovation not only restored its original 1904 opulence, but topped it. The public spaces are lavish, tile inlaid floors balance the ceilings with their intricate carvings of state seals. The hotel's traditions are celebrated in a worthwhile little museum near the F St entrance. There's been a hotel with this name in this spot since 1850 (so yes, it predates the movie about the rat of the same name). Rooms are comfortable but not opulent. Maroons and beiges dominate the palette - although in a nod to the Willard's chain association, you'll find a few spiky orchids scattered about.

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Atmosphere: Elegant and Busy

Check-in / Check-out Earliest check-in: 3:00 PM
Latest check-out time: 12:00 PM