Mayflower or Hotel Washington

Question

I will be traveling to DC in mid-June and I like to stay at historic hotels. The price between The Mayflower and Hotel Washington is about the same. Any insights or suggestions to break the tie? Thank you!

Answer

Both The Mayflower and Hotel Washington are iconic historic hotels in Washington DC, each with its own charm and unique qualities. Choosing between them will depend on your preferences for history, location, style, and amenities.

The Mayflower, known as the "Grande Dame of Washington," has been a fixture since 1925 and has hosted countless presidents, celebrities, and international dignitaries. Its architecture is classic and grand, with a strong sense of old-world elegance. Staying here gives a sense of stepping back in time while still enjoying modern comforts.

Hotel Washington, also historic and centrally located, is smaller and cozier than The Mayflower. Its charm lies in its boutique feel and proximity to key landmarks such as the White House, National Mall, and museums. The hotel has recently undergone renovations to modernize its rooms while preserving historical details.

Some factors to consider when making your choice:

Historic Significance: The Mayflower has a deeper historical pedigree and is often considered a landmark of DC history.
Location: Hotel Washington is slightly closer to the White House and downtown attractions, which could be convenient for sightseeing.
Atmosphere: The Mayflower offers a grand, classic hotel experience with a sense of luxury, while Hotel Washington is more intimate and boutique-style.
Amenities: The Mayflower has multiple restaurants, bars, and a fitness center, whereas Hotel Washington is smaller but still provides comfortable accommodations and a rooftop bar with great views.
Events and Crowd: The Mayflower tends to host more large events, conferences, and weddings, which might make it busier, while Hotel Washington often feels quieter and more personal.

If your priority is a grand, historic, luxurious experience with a full-service hotel vibe, The Mayflower is likely the better choice. If you prefer a boutique, centrally located, and slightly more intimate stay, Hotel Washington might be more suitable.

Another tip is to consider your room type and view. Both hotels offer rooms with varying views and levels of comfort, so checking recent guest reviews for specific room experiences can also help break the tie.

Choose The Mayflower for classic elegance, historic prestige, and a larger hotel experience.
Choose Hotel Washington for a boutique feel, central downtown location, and a more intimate atmosphere.

Ultimately, both hotels provide an authentic historic DC experience, so you really can't go wrong with either choice.