A Review of Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC: Timeless Elegance and Luxurious Suites with a New Spa

From the shimmering striped marble floors to the vibrant floral display near the concierge desk, and the chance to encounter dignitaries or local politicians en route to discreet lunch meetings at Bourbon Steak, Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC offers an impressive experience.

Since its debut in 1979, this iconic hotel in Washington, D.C., the first Four Seasons-branded property in the U.S., has been a preferred choice for the city's social elite, politicians, and foreign dignitaries.

Here’s a glimpse into my experience at this classic hotel in Washington.

What to Expect at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC

Recognized among the top hotels in D.C. and noted for hosting historically significant meetings, Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC stands out as a remarkable place to stay. Its prime location in the upscale Georgetown area, just moments from stunning views of the Potomac River, combined with a superb restaurant and spa, exemplifies the exceptional Four Seasons service. The hotel has recently undergone significant renovations to its spa and multiple suites — one of which I had the pleasure of experiencing firsthand.

Nestled along the C&O Canal at the edge of Georgetown, this hotel is approximately a 45-minute drive from Dulles International Airport and only 15 minutes from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Due to Washington's notorious rush hour traffic, ride-hailing fares can vary widely, ranging from $25 to over $100. The nearest metro station, Foggy Bottom-GWU, is about a 10-minute walk away.

Checking In

As I stepped through the hotel’s revolving glass door, I was greeted by a chic, contemporary lobby filled with comfortable sofas and chairs. My first impression included an impressive art collection featuring notable artists such as Andy Warhol and Fernando Botero. This area led to a dual-counter check-in space, where a concierge was ready to assist me quickly, handing me a signature wooden hotel keycard. The staff at both desks were warm and attentive, always offering a friendly smile and asking, "How are you today?" throughout my stay.

Although my suite wasn’t ready upon my arrival, the check-in team kindly offered me a drink and provided updates on its status every 15 minutes. I mentioned needing to rent a gown for a formal event, and shortly after, the general manager personally handed me a note on Four Seasons stationery with a handwritten list of local gown rental options.

What are the costs at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC? How to make a reservation

Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC offers 222 rooms, varying from 385-square-foot deluxe accommodations to an expansive 1,924-square-foot presidential suite. A glance at the hotel's website reveals that rates start at approximately $825 for a deluxe room and $2,550 for a premier suite, which is the focus of this review.

Keep in mind that prices can skyrocket during peak periods such as spring (when cherry blossoms are in bloom), summer, college graduation weekends, Christmas, and the presidential inauguration.

Although Four Seasons doesn’t have a loyalty program, you can access elite-like benefits by booking through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts if you hold The Platinum Card® from American Express. Using your Amex Platinum for these bookings provides special perks like potential room upgrades at check-in (subject to availability) and complimentary daily breakfast for two. Additionally, you can earn 5 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent on prepaid hotel reservations or use points to pay for part or all of your stay.

Accommodations at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC

My 800-square-foot premier suite showcased a sophisticated entryway adorned with a dark wooden wall, inspired by the design of the Washington Metro, on the left. To the right, glass-paned closets contained two pairs of slippers, plenty of hangers, a laundry bag, a safe, and additional storage space. An elegant archway led from the entryway into the main area of the suite, which featured freshly installed hardwood floors in a herringbone pattern.

Adjacent to the two closets in the entryway was a generous bathroom featuring a separate wash closet for the toilet. The main area boasted a deep soaking tub positioned under a vibrant abstract oil painting, alongside a glass-enclosed shower equipped with both an overhead rain showerhead and a handheld shower wand. Citrus-scented toiletries by Diptyque added a touch of luxury, and two plush terrycloth robes were neatly hung on the wall to the right of the bathroom entrance.

Stepping through the suite's entryway, I found myself in an impressively spacious bedroom that felt almost cavernous, with soaring ceilings and enough space to host the Democratic National Convention. This area exuded a light and airy ambiance, highlighted by striking glass chandeliers and a sumptuous king-size bed draped in a down duvet and luxuriously soft linens. The bed was flanked by two mid-century modern wooden bedside tables, each equipped with lamps and standard USB-A and USB-C outlets.

To the right of the bed, there was a mirrored coffee area resembling a window, equipped with a Nespresso machine, an electric kettle, and glass bottles of water.

This space transitioned smoothly into a living room that managed to feel both cozy and refreshing. Sunlight poured in through the floor-to-ceiling windows, offering views of 29th Street.

On the left side, there was a beige couch that was moderately comfortable but not particularly cozy. In the center of the room, between the windows, stood a mirrored art deco bar hutch, complete with an ice bucket, a shaker, and cocktail glassware. Inside the cabinet, a mini fridge held the usual offerings: a limited selection of beer, wine, soda, seltzer, and snacks (none of which were locally sourced). On the right wall, a flat-screen television was mounted above a long, low desk.

A small two-seater marble table was also present, perfect for enjoying room service. A mint green velvet chair faced the bar area, while a small coffee table was placed between it and the sofa. The arrangement exuded a homey yet chic vibe, reminiscent of a stylish interior decor catalog. Fresh flowers on the marble table added a delightful touch.

Dining Experience at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC

Led by celebrity chef Michael Mina, Bourbon Steak has become a renowned spot for both lunch and dinner in Washington. Famous for its classic steakhouse dishes with contemporary twists, I decided to follow the general manager's recommendation and ordered the wedge salad with grilled shrimp ($52). I was thoroughly impressed by this choice and have been craving it ever since, even contemplating recreating it at home.

Other dishes worth trying include the duck fat fries ($10) and the refreshing West Indian limeade (non-alcoholic, $9).

During brunch at Seasons, the hotel's daytime eatery, I savored the Georgetown Benedict, which featured crab meat and Old Bay hollandaise ($38), alongside a perfectly crafted cappuccino ($11).

The room service was prompt and well-organized.

I chose a traditional Caesar salad ($28), which was crisp and refreshing, and a spaghetti Bolognese ($32) that boasted a rich and tasty sauce. Unfortunately, the pasta was overcooked, which was disappointing given the price.

Amenities and activities at Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC

As expected, the Four Seasons' location in Washington provides exceptional amenities and numerous activities for guests to enjoy during their stay at this historic hotel.

• The newly revamped spa now features a coed lounge that offers a chef-curated menu of nutritious snacks (think acai bowls and avocado toast), a dedicated couples treatment room, and cutting-edge Mind Sync technology that utilizes sound waves to soothe the mind during treatments.
• Guests can enjoy a workout at the hotel's fitness center, which spans two levels and includes a 12,000-square-foot gym equipped with Technogym machines, a swimming pool available by reservation, and locker rooms with saunas, steam rooms, and spa tubs. Personal training, guided meditation, and yoga sessions can be scheduled for an additional fee.
• For those wanting to explore beyond the hotel, there are paid options for tours of the monuments or a 2.5-hour private charter on the hotel's Cru Classe yacht.
• With twice-daily housekeeping, the guest rooms and suites are maintained in impeccable condition (in the evening, shades are drawn, slippers are placed next to the bed, and fresh water is provided on the nightstands).
• The hotel also offers a complimentary car service for transportation within a 5-mile radius of the property.

Insider tips for Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC

• Just a short walk from the hotel, visit the art collection at DTR Modern Galleries.
• Bourbon Steak is a highly sought-after dining spot, so it's advisable to make a reservation in advance (especially on weekends or during busy seasons like graduation).
• The spa at this location has garnered an excellent reputation and has recently undergone significant renovations, making it the perfect time to experience its offerings firsthand (even while renovations were still ongoing during my visit, the signature massage I received was among the best I've experienced in years).
• Make the most of the concierge services — the helpful staff are ready to assist with inquiries about your plans in Washington and can offer suggestions for activities, restaurant recommendations, and local shops, museums, and galleries.
• For guests focused on wellness and fitness, check the in-room wellness menu, which includes complimentary items that can be delivered to your room, such as yoga mats, various pillows, a white-noise machine, sleep crystals, and bath salts. Guests can also rent a Peloton bike, treadmill, Theragun recovery tools, and more for a fee.

Accessibility

Accessibility details for Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC can be found on the hotel's accessible accommodations page. There are three types of accessible rooms available: deluxe, grand premiere, and the Georgetown one-bedroom suite. In-room features include grab bars in the toilet, shower, and tub; 32-inch-wide wheelchair-friendly doors; lowered peepholes; raised toilet seats; and upon request, flashing lights for alarms and doorbells.

The hotel's public areas offer accessible pathways from the entrance to each accessible room. The restaurant, fitness center, business center, and meeting spaces are all designed to be accessible.

Service animals are allowed at this Four Seasons location.

Bottom line

For those who cherish luxury — or for devoted Four Seasons patrons — Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC is a prime choice when visiting the capital. The updated suites are so inviting and comfortable that I found it hard to leave, and the spa along with the on-site restaurant offer experiences that are truly noteworthy. Additionally, the hotel places guests within easy reach of some of Washington's finest attractions. While it may be a more expensive accommodation option, it's certainly worthwhile for anyone seeking exceptional service and the chance to mingle with the elite of the city — or even the world.