If you assume that residing in the D.C. metro area means you’ll never actually be able to take advantage of the incredible hotels the region has to offer, think again. Planning a staycation – whether for just one night or an entire three-day weekend – is an excellent opportunity to enjoy some much-needed R&R within your own city. Because a staycation is also firmly about the hotel experience – think: lazy room service breakfasts and ultra-plush mattresses – you’re going to want to choose your home base wisely. Luckily, we know just the spot.
Rejuvenate at the Waldorf Astoria Spa with six treatment rooms, the Sanctuary relaxation area, and the Himalayan Salt Therapy Room. (Photos courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Washington DC.)
Located right in the heart of downtown D.C. in the historic Old Post Office building, the Waldorf Astoria Hotel is one of the city’s grandest properties, catering to business travelers, tourists, wedding celebrations – and, yes, staycationers – alike. Featuring oversized suites – no two rooms are exactly the same – and grand Gilded Age architecture, the Waldorf Astoria caters to guests’ comfort while offering all the charm of a boutique property.
While the hotel puts you within walking distance of the plethora of museums that line the National Mall, as well as a fantastic array of stores and restaurants, perhaps you’d rather not venture out at all. At the Waldorf Astoria, that’s entirely fine – the property boasts a spa, fitness center, and three primary restaurants: Bazaar Meat by José Andrés; Peacock Alley, which serves American classics (don’t miss the cheeseburger); and Sushi Nakazawa, a one-star Michelin destination. Feel like a mid-day snack? Don’t miss out on the hotel’s afternoon tea service, which is offered on Thursdays and Sundays. Cocktail enthusiasts will want to book time at The Tasting Salon, during which they’ll be able to sample rare spirits from across the globe.
Luxury accommodations include the Waldorf Townhouse Suite with a light-filled living room and a dining room that seats twelve, and the Nancy Hanks Suite with spectacular city views.
No travel experience, even a local getaway, is complete without some great photo opps, and the Waldorf Astoria offers plenty of those, too. While the architectural features located throughout the hotel will have you snapping your camera constantly, you’ll also want to be sure to set aside time for an elevator ride up to the Clocktower, which boasts stunning panoramic D.C. views from 270 feet above ground. The experience of taking in the city from this special perch will render even the most seasoned DMV residents speechless.
About the Author
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelance writer, originally from Bethesda, MD. She contributes to a number of national design and lifestyle publications like Architectural Digest, Apartment Therapy, MyDomaine, the Washington Post, and more. Sarah also works with designers to help them style spaces for photo shoots. Follow her on Instagram @sarahlyon9.
