Washington, D.C. Hotels|Washington, D.C., District of Columbia, United States

Willard InterContinental

Name: Willard InterContinental
Telephone: 307-733-2200

Historic elegance on D.C.'s famed street

VERIFIED LUXURY

Learn How We Inspect

Ideally positioned just blocks from the White House, the iconic Willard InterContinental hotel has been a center of the Washington, D.C. social and political scene since it opened in 1818.

The Willard is as known for its historic moments — it’s the hotel where Martin Luther King Jr. famously finished his “I Have a Dream” speech — as it is for its well-loved Round Robin bar or Peacock Alley's lavish afternoon tea.

Visit for the unique blend of location, historic charm and high-touch service, as well as the glamorous spaces that take you back to the gilded age of travel.

Our Inspector's Highlights

Since its opening, the property has been a popular choice for politicians and celebrities alike, hosting almost every president since Franklin Pierce (in 1853), along with notables like Charles Dickens, Buffalo Bill, Martin Luther King Jr. and more.
Relax in the Willard Spa’s sauna, steam rooms, spacious outdoor terrace, or with one of the retreat’s signature treatments like the HydraFacial.
Want to get in a little fitness? The hotel also offers a well-stocked fitness center.
The DC property’s high tea is always a hit, but it’s particularly popular during spring cherry blossom season, when the hotel offers a special service.
Positioned at 14th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, the Willard remains a popular choice for business and leisure travelers due to its ideal location, just blocks from the White House, the National Mall, multiple Metro stations and more.

Things to Know

Don’t miss a stop by the history gallery, located just off the lobby. Inside, you’ll find photos, newspaper clippings and artifacts from the over 200 years the luxury hotel has been in business.
It’s long been rumored that the term (or at least the concept) of “lobbying” was coined at the hotel, thanks to Ulysses S. Grant, who often held his meetings at the property.
The Jenny Lind Suite is a popular space with brides. This bi-level suite boasts a massive four-poster bed and a deep soaking tub overlooking the Washington Monument.

The Rooms

The newly restored 335 rooms, including 69 suites and 14 signature suites, at Willard InterContinental are decorated in a grand yet traditional style.
Oversized by D.C. hotel standards, rooms start at a spacious 425 square feet, and most offer prime views, either of Pennsylvania Avenue, the White House, or downtown Washington, D.C.
Parker-Torres Design managed the historic hotel’s renovation, achieving the perfect balance in the guest rooms with design choices that respect the hotel’s heritage while providing modern comforts.
Each of the hotel's signature suites pays tribute to a historical figure through thoughtful design elements. For example, the Martin Luther King Jr. Suite features a custom mural depicting a Georgia peach, while the Jenny Lind Suite showcases jewel-toned accents inspired by the famous opera star.

The Restaurants

A meal at the Willard should always begin with drinks in Round Robin. Order a scotch or classic cocktail and cozy up to the dark wood paneled bar.
Another favorite spot is the Willard Peacock Alley, the grand, gilded central hallway of the hotel, where you can perch on cozy velvet settees and indulge in traditional high tea.
The Willard Tea Room serves an enchanting afternoon tea, complete with accompaniment from a live harpist, the hotel’s beloved scones, an impressive selection of loose-leaf J’enwey tea and exclusive Presidential china.
For full dining, Café du Parc, with its classic bistro-inspired fare, is a popular destination, particularly in the warmer months when you can sit outside on the patio.
Café du Parc serves up unfussy but delicious French bistro-style offerings ranging from French onion soup to seasonal favorites like the Bedford scallops, served with mushroom risotto and porcini cream sauce.

Amenities