Dinogo Readers’ Top 10 Hotels in Washington, D.C.

For an inside look at the workings of the U.S. government, nothing rivals a trip to Washington, D.C. This city is home to the three branches of the federal government, as well as numerous museums (many of which are free) and monuments that commemorate significant events in the nation’s history. It attracts politicians and influential figures from around the globe, resulting in an abundance of luxurious hotels offering exceptional service and amenities.

Understanding the Voting Process

Each year, for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L invites readers to share their travel experiences worldwide, providing feedback on the best hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. In 2024, over 186,000 T+L readers participated in the survey, casting more than 700,000 votes across over 8,700 properties (including hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Hotels were categorized as resort hotels, city hotels, inns, or safari lodges based on their location and offerings. They were rated according to the criteria listed below:

Room features and amenities
Proximity
Quality of service
Culinary offerings
Cost-effectiveness

Respondents could rate each aspect as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores represent the average of these ratings.

What Readers Appreciated

The outcomes of the 2024 World’s Best Awards survey highlighted several historic hotels situated in remarkable locations. For instance, The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, D.C. (No. 10) delivers the reliability and prestige associated with major hotel brands. One T+L reader stated, “Numerous hotels and resorts distinguish themselves from others; this hotel is definitely one of them. … It should be on your must-visit list for this area.”

In contrast, other establishments like The Hay-Adams (No. 3) are independent boutique hotels, boasting a coveted location directly across from the White House and a legacy that spans over a century.

One T+L reader referred to The Hay-Adams as, “Old Washington at its finest,” while another described it as their “top choice for a hotel.” Nearly all readers commented on the stunning views of the White House and the property’s prime location close to downtown Washington, D.C.’s most famous landmarks.

The Champion

The Jefferson, Washington, DC

Skylight illuminating the dining area at The Jefferson hotel in DC

Image courtesy of The Jefferson

The top-rated hotel in Washington, D.C. boasts all the amenities you'd expect from a prestigious establishment, including its location in a Beaux-Arts building from the 1920s, just a few blocks from the White House, along with elegant rooms featuring details like fireplaces, four-poster beds, and standalone bathtubs.

However, it’s The Jefferson’s exceptional customer service that has elevated it to the pinnacle, as noted by T+L readers. “What sets The Jefferson apart is the warm, attentive service from the staff. They make you feel like family.” The hotel even features a resident historian, and its Book Room is filled with leather-bound books and inviting reading chairs.

This dog-friendly hotel also includes a fitness center and two dining options: The Greenhouse and Quill.

The recognition for The Jefferson is well-earned; it is a WBA Hall of Fame inductee and was ranked No. 2 on the World’s Best Awards list for the previous two years. This reflects what one reader called a “unique capability to uphold luxury standards and staff consistency over time. They never compromise on quality.”