Washington, D.C.
The Mayflower Hotel
An Autograph Collection Hotel
What it is
A storied Art Deco icon since 1925, with 581 tranquil rooms and two locally beloved restaurants.
What it isn't
Off the clock. Workaholic-primed amenities include valet dry-cleaning, a notary public and business center to get you ready for your meetings on Capitol Hill.
What we think
Even in a city that teems with historical sights, the Mayflower’s past will still drop your jaw. Take the 1,000-person breakfast Charles Lindbergh had here when he won the Hubbard Medal in 1927. Or the fact that President Franklin D. Roosevelt wrote the immortal words “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself” from room 776 the night before his inauguration. You can make history yourself during your stay, because each room is outfitted for greatness, with marble-lined bathrooms and a color palette of calming neutrals mixed with saturated purples and golds (the wallpaper adorned with signatures nods to the thrill of getting things done.)
You're here because
Politicos flock here thanks to its boldfaced-named former guests, including President Eisenhower, President Truman, President Reagan and beyond.
The Moment
You’ve got nothing against fried chicken North of the Mason-Dixon line, but it’s rare to find it done properly. But the crispy wings at Tolson Bird Bar are edible Southern comfort, through and through; you vow to come back tomorrow order the ‘Bucket Experience’ —a bucket of fried chicken served with caviar, champagne, and truffle gravy that’s “slap yo Momma good,” as they say.
Restaurants & Bars
Edgar Bar & Kitchen - Traditional American brasserie with a modern flair.
Location
A few blocks from Dupont Circle in one direction and a few blocks from the White House in the other. Between Smithsonian visits, don’t forget to stop by the International Spy Museum, where you can play spy yourself on covert missions.