The Best Washington DC Hotels with National Mall Views.
Search or scroll down to a list of Washington DC hotels with views, such as The White House and Washington Monument. Enjoy luxury hotels with scenic room balconies and inviting pools.
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Exceptional Washington DC Hotels, Independently Reviewed
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5-Star Hotel in Downtown
♡ Balconies with White House Views
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Presidential legacies whisper through the corridors of The Hay-Adams, where Washington DC's political heritage finds its most elegant expression. Named for John Milton Hay, Abraham Lincoln's private assistant and later secretary of state, and Henry Brooks Adams, the distinguished author, and presidential descendant, this landmark hotel overlooks its iconic neighbor, the White House, with whom it seems to have a symbiotic relation.
The property's prestigious position along Lafayette Square – once part of the White House grounds – places guests at the epicenter of American history. Today, this Washington DC hotel with a view of the White House continues its tradition of hosting luminaries, from past presidents to pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart and celebrated author Sinclair Lewis.
Guests can start their mornings with coffee on their private balconies, gazing at either the iconic White House or the lush greenery of Lafayette Square Park. Inside, the accommodations' decorative ceilings and romantic fireplaces tell the story of the building's rich past, and luxury add-ons – from fine European linens to marble bathrooms with gleaming brass fixtures – add an extra layer of nicety. The rooms at this exquisite hotel feel wonderfully historic. Still, they are fully equipped for today's travelers with large HD TVs, speakers, and climate control systems that let guests adjust everything to their liking. For special occasions, guests will want to head up to the rooftop terrace, where they can host memorable gatherings against a backdrop of DC's most famous monuments.
The hotel's signature restaurant, The Lafayette, stands among the capital's premier dining establishments. Here, seasonal American cuisine showcases regional ingredients with sophisticated flair. The Sunday brunch elevates weekend dining with delicacies like lobster omelets studded with shiitake mushrooms and crab cake Benedict draped in tarragon hollandaise. Pastry chef Elenor Apolonio-Frantz crafts seasonal desserts that turn each meal's finale into an event, featuring creations like apricot and almond tart accompanied by wine-poached fruit and brown butter olive oil cream.
The Hay-Adams cultivates intellectual discourse through its Author Series, welcoming literary luminaries like John Grisham and Maya Angelou for intimate discussions that engage guests and locals. Meanwhile, the Off the Record bar has earned its reputation as Washington's discrete gathering spot, where political insiders convene amid caricatures of capital personalities past and present. Les Clefs d'Or concierges orchestrate guest experiences with insider knowledge, arranging everything from monument tours to coveted restaurant reservations, while the hotel's luxury car service ensures stylish transportation throughout the city.
🔭 Hotel View: White House, Washington Monument, Lafayette Park, Lafayette Square, St. John's Church
Address: 800 16th Street Northwest, Northwest, Washington, DC 20006
5-Star Hotel in Northwest Washington
♡ Panoramic Rooftop Bar
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The Conrad Washington, DC, brings a modern edge to downtown, with 11 stories of glass and steel designed by Herzog & de Meuron, the Swiss firm behind several famous museums. The real showstopper here is Summit, the rooftop bar on the 11th floor - grab a drink, and you can see everything from the Washington Monument to the U.S. Capitol's dome. Summit isn't just about the vistas - they do creative cocktails and small plates and even grow their own garnishes in the rooftop garden. Downstairs, Estuary focuses on seafood from the Chesapeake Bay. The Maryland crab rolls and whole grilled lobster are standouts on the menu.
Most accommodations in the 360-room hotel also have great views, thanks to big windows. The standard rooms are surprisingly spacious at 400 square feet, and floor-to-ceiling windows make them feel even bigger. If you're looking to splurge, the Sakura Club rooms on the 10th floor come with access to a private lounge where they do interesting Japanese whisky tastings in the evening. Corner Kings are worth investing in - the extra windows make a big difference. For serious luxury, the Presidential Suite spans 2,520 square feet with some of the best U.S. Capitol views in the city.
The designers clearly had fun with the lobby - it's up on the third floor with an atrium setup, mixing Calcutta marble floors and white columns with some eye-catching features like chain mail hanging from the ceiling and a big moon-shaped light fixture that catches the skylight. They've also scattered local art throughout the hotel, including pieces inspired by DC's Color School art movement.
🔭 Hotel View: Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol
Address: 950 New York Ave. NW, Northwest, Washington, DC 20001
5-Star Hotel in Southwest Waterfront
♡ River-Facing Rooms & Pool Vistas
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The Wharf has transformed into one of DC's most exciting neighborhoods, and the InterContinental - Washington D.C. - The Wharf puts you right in the middle of the action. With 278 rooms overlooking the Potomac River and Washington Channel, this waterfront location means you can watch everything from sailboats to water taxis cruise by your window.
Want to really splurge? The Presidential Suite spreads out over 2,080 square feet (193 square meters) with some of the best river views in the city through wall-to-wall windows. Even the regular Waterfront View rooms are worth booking - they're a front-row seat to all the maritime traffic and monument views.
Up on the roof, WAVES Bar, next to a gorgeous infinity pool, has become a popular spot for sunset drinks - the views stretch from the Washington Channel all the way to the monuments. The Watering Hole across the street is just the place to enjoy light bites with a marina vista.
This end of The Wharf feels like its own little world - lots of shops and restaurants within walking distance, plus water taxis that can zip you over to Georgetown or National Harbor if you want to explore. Even if you don't leave the neighborhood, there's usually something going on, from live music to waterfront festivals. It's definitely not the stuffy DC hotel experience some people might expect.
🔭 Hotel View: Potomac River, Jefferson Memorial
Address: 801 Wharf Street SW, Southwest, Washington, 20024
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4-Star Hotel in Northwest Washington
♡ Washington Monument Views
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The Willard InterContinental Washington has been a Pennsylvania Avenue landmark since 1818, sitting just two blocks from the White House. The hotel's history runs deep - this is actually where the term "lobbying" started, thanks to President Grant's habit of relaxing in the lobby with his cigar, where people would try to catch his ear.
The rooms here start at 305 square feet, noticeably bigger than most DC hotels, and many look out over the Washington Monument. If you're after a real treat, check out one of the seven named suites. The Jenny Lind Suite is split across two levels and has a cool feature - a soaking tub with a view of the Washington Monument. The Matthew Perry and Thomas Jefferson Suites are massive at 1,900 square feet each, with some of the best views of Pennsylvania Avenue in the city. The Oval Suite is another good pick for views, with windows wrapping around for a full city panorama.
The food scene here is impressive. Café du Parc does solid French bistro cooking - take a seat by the window, and you can witness the constant flow of people along Pennsylvania Avenue while you eat. History buffs will love the Round Robin Bar, where the dark wood paneling and circular bar haven't changed much since Lincoln's day. The hotel's most photographed spot is probably Peacock Alley, a grand hallway where they serve a traditional afternoon tea. It's popular with locals celebrating special occasions, so book ahead if you want to try it.
Need to unwind? The Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa takes up 10,000 square feet and has four treatment rooms plus sauna and steam rooms. It's a quiet escape from the bustle of downtown DC.
Location-wise, you can't get much more central. The hotel puts you right in the middle of the city's main sights - an easy walk to the National Mall's museums and monuments, and the Capitol Building is about a 15-minute stroll away.
🔭 Hotel View: Washington Monument, President's Park
Address: 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest, Northwest, Washington, DC 20004
5-Star Hotel in Southwest Waterfront
♡ Landscaped Pool & River View
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The latest addition to The Wharf's waterfront brings a fresh look to DC's hotel scene. The Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf stands out with its angular design and floor-to-ceiling windows, housing 131 rooms that feel more like stylish apartments than hotel rooms.
White walls, wood floors, and black metal four-poster beds give the rooms a clean, modern feel. If you can swing it, book one of the Waterfront King Rooms or Potomac River View Suites - watching the boats go by from bed isn't a bad way to start the day. The design firm DesignAgency mixed in some nice touches like arched doorways and interesting local art that keep things from feeling too minimalist.
The rooftop restaurant Moonraker is already drawing crowds for its Japanese food and river views. During warm weather, they open up the walls to create an indoor-outdoor space that's perfect for sunset drinks. Downstairs, Flora Flora does Latin American dishes in a bright space with water views. Don't miss Bar Pendry - besides the cool design (think navy walls with gold palms), they've got this great collection of casual presidential photos. There's something fun about sipping a cocktail next to a photo of Obama surfing or JFK eating ice cream.
The saltwater pool deck is a nice relaxing spot, with black-and-white striped umbrellas shading the cabanas. The spa has five treatment rooms, and the 24-hour gym is properly equipped with Technogym machines, Pelotons, and even Theraguns for post-workout recovery.
Getting around is easy - they'll give you a ride in a Cadillac, or you can grab one of their Scott e-bikes if you want to explore on your own. The Tidal Basin's cherry blossoms are just a quick ride away in spring. That said, with The Wharf's restaurants and bars right outside, you might not want to go far.
🔭 Hotel View: Potomac River, Jefferson Memorial
Address: 655 Water Street Southwest, Southwest, Washington, DC 20024
5-Star Hotel in Southwest Washington
♡ National Mall Vistas & Creative Dining
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DC's most desirable waterfront location belongs to the Salamander Washington DC, the only luxury hotel sitting directly on the Tidal Basin and moments away from the National Mall. If you visited before 2022, you might remember this 373-room property as the Mandarin Oriental. The limestone exterior and columns fit right in with DC's classical architecture, but the real draw here is the views - many rooms look straight out to the Jefferson Memorial, and during cherry blossom season, guests get an incredible view of the pink blooms reflecting on the water.
The rooms make the most of this unique location. Premier Water View Rooms offer a front-row seat to the Tidal Basin, while the 1,900-square-foot Presidential Suite takes in panoramic views of both the Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial. Nice touches throughout include deep soaking tubs and easy-to-use lighting controls you can adjust from your bed.
Food options are solid. The lounge is popular with locals for weekend afternoon tea, where you can watch the sunset over the Jefferson Memorial. Things got even more interesting in 2024 when Kwame Onwuachi (you might know him from Top Chef) opened his new Afro-Caribbean restaurant, DŌGON, at this waterfront address.
A 10,500-square-foot spa houses fourteen treatment rooms, including two for couples. Their signature treatment includes a fancy 24k gold scrub. The gym has new Technogym equipment and looks out over the water - much better than working out in a basement. There's also an indoor pool that's open year-round.
Getting around is easy with the free electric car service that runs to the National Mall and nearby spots. But the best part about staying at this peaceful waterfront retreat (at least for some) is being away from downtown's constant buzz while having easy access to the city's main attractions.
🔭 Hotel View: Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, Tidal Basin, Potomac River
Address: 1330 Maryland Avenue Southwest, Southwest, Washington, DC 20024
5-Star Hotel in Northwest Washington
♡ Executive Lounge’s National Mall Views
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The JW Marriott Washington, DC sits in a prime spot on Pennsylvania Avenue, just down the street from the White House. One of its best features is the 12th-floor Executive Lounge, where guests can look out over Pennsylvania Avenue toward the Washington Monument while enjoying a morning coffee or evening drink.
The hotel houses 777 rooms, each designed for comfort rather than flash. Standard Executive King Rooms are spacious at 300 square feet (28 square meters), with nice touches like marble bathrooms and high-quality bedding. For special occasions, the Presidential Suite stretches out over 1,400 square feet (130 square meters) and includes separate living and dining areas. Its floor-to-ceiling windows offer an impressive view of the U.S. Capitol Building.
Local ingredients star at Avenue Grill, the hotel's main restaurant, where American classics get thoughtful updates without being pretentious. The 1331 Lounge is a good spot for a drink and some small plates after seeing the sights – busy with a mix of travelers and locals, especially during happy hour.
The fitness center is surprisingly good - no dark basement gym here. It's up on a higher floor with big windows looking out at the city, and they've put in plenty of new Technogym equipment. There are several treadmills and weight machines, so you probably won't have to wait for equipment even during busy morning hours.
While anyone can enjoy the hotel's amenities, guests staying in Club-level rooms get access to that 12th-floor Executive Lounge, which really adds something special to a stay. The views of the Washington Monument and National Mall from up there are worth the upgrade, especially at sunset. The location right near major landmarks means you're never far from what you came to see.
🔭 Hotel View: Washington Monument, Capitol Hill, President's Park
Address: 1331 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest, Northwest, Washington, DC 20004
4-Star Hotel in Navy Yard
♡ Capitol View Rooms
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Where Capitol Hill meets Navy Yard, a stylish newcomer has joined the neighborhood. The AC Hotel by Marriott Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard brings a modern European vibe to this historic area, with 225 rooms that skip the typical DC hotel fussiness for clean lines and practical comfort.
Book a Capitol View King room if you want to wake up looking at the U.S. Capitol Building - the floor-to-ceiling windows make quite an impression. These rooms are set up nicely for work, with good desk space, fast WiFi, and plenty of outlets right where you need them. The design is intentionally simple, letting those views do the talking.
Breakfast at the AC Kitchen feels like being in Europe - think fresh croissants, good prosciutto, and proper cheese (not the plastic-wrapped kind). In the evening, the AC Lounge gets a decent after-work crowd mixing craft cocktails with city views. It's a good spot to unwind or meet colleagues for a drink.
The gym has all the usual equipment, but the big windows make it nicer than your typical hotel fitness center. If you're planning meetings, there are several modern conference rooms with views that might keep your attendees awake better than coffee.
The location works well for different types of trips. You're an easy walk to the Library of Congress and Capitol Building if you're here for work on the Hill. For dinner and drinks, Navy Yard has really come alive in the last few years - lots of good eateries and bars within a few blocks, plus Nationals Park if you're in town during baseball season.
🔭 Hotel View: U.S. Capitol
Address: 867 New Jersey Ave SE, Southeast, Washington, DC 20003
4-Star Hotel in Southwest Waterfront
♡ Waterfront View Rooms
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Along DC's revitalized Wharf district, where fishing boats still bob alongside luxury yachts, the Canopy By Hilton Washington DC The Wharf adds a modern twist to the waterfront scene. This 175-room hotel makes the most of its location with oversized windows throughout - you can watch boats coming and going all day on the Washington Channel.
The Waterfront View King rooms are the ones to book here. They come with the brand's "Just-Right" beds (marketing speak aside, they're pretty comfortable), and the floor-to-ceiling windows make the rooms feel bigger than they are. The designers kept things nautical without going overboard - think subtle blue tones and clean lines rather than anchor prints everywhere.
For food and drinks, there are two main spots. Canopy Central Café does Chesapeake Bay-inspired dishes with fresh seafood and local ingredients. The real gem, though, is Whiskey Charlie up on the roof. It's become a favorite with locals for sunset drinks, and you can see why - the views stretch across the water to the monuments.
The gym faces the water too, which makes morning workouts a bit more bearable. A nice touch: they offer free bikes if you want to explore the waterfront or pedal over to the nearby National Mall.
The location puts you right in the middle of the Wharf's buzz - loads of restaurants and bars within a few minutes' walk, plus live music at places like Pearl Street Warehouse and the Anthem. The water taxis stop nearby if you want to zip across to Georgetown or Alexandria.
🔭 Hotel View: Potomac River, U.S. Capitol
Address: 975 7th Street SW, Southwest, Washington, DC 20024
5-Star Hotel in Pentagon City
♡ Pentagon Vistas From the Club Rooms
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Just across the Potomac from DC, in a prime Arlington spot, The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City, gives you impressive views of the capital's skyline, the Pentagon, and the river. If you're looking to really splurge, the 18th-floor Club Lounge has some of the best views around - it's worth the upgrade just for the morning coffee with a monument backdrop.
The rooms start at a decent 400 square feet and go up to the 1,800-square-foot Ritz-Carlton Suite if you're feeling fancy. They've kept the design clean with blacks, whites, and grays, plus some nice touches like fresh flowers. All rooms come with really good beds (400-thread-count Frette linens), marble bathrooms, and Asprey toiletries. The Club Level rooms on the higher floors are your best bet for views, plus you get access to food and drinks throughout the day.
Santé, the main restaurant, does Mediterranean food well - try the shrimp saganaki or the whole branzino if it's on the menu. The dining room and fireside lounge look out over Pentagon Row, which makes for good people-watching during dinner.
Getting into DC is super easy - the Pentagon City Metro station is basically attached to the hotel. Families seem to love this place; they do cute things like giving kids welcome wagons full of toys and setting up scavenger hunts. The gym has all the usual equipment plus sauna and steam rooms. One really convenient thing: you can walk straight into The Fashion Centre mall with its 140 shops and restaurants without going outside - nice during DC's steamy summers or winter chills.
🔭 Hotel View: The Pentagon
Address: 1250 South Hayes Street, Arlington, VA 22202