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1925
Sofitel Washington, D.C. Lafayette Square
Washington, District of Columbia
Sofitel Washington, D.C. Lafayette Square
806 15th Street NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20005 Original Property Opened in 1925 Historic Hotels of America member since 2018
art
gardens
memorabilia
presidential
Once the site of a grand hotel where presidents and celebrities resided in the 1800s, this fabled address has been restored from the original building designed by Mihran Mesrobian in 1925. Sofitel Washington, D.C. Lafayette Square continues to host celebrities, emissaries, dignitaries, and heads of state from around the world with its French authenticity, levels of service, and cuisine served in high French style. The 12-story building, located on Lafayette Square in historic Washington underwent an extensive makeover in 2014 and 2015, showcasing Art Deco-infused elements blended with design touches inspired by The White House renovations in the 1960s.
Discover
- Admire the iconic entrance of the Sofitel Washington, D.C. Lafayette Square and its brass doors and Sofitel sign. This historic hotel sits on the former site of a grand hotel that presidents and celebrities visited in the 19th century. The former hotel even served as a temporary home for both President Andrew Johnson and President Woodrow Wilson. The building was designed by Mihran Mesrobian, who strived to create a French-inspired oasis in historic Washington.
- Discover the White House-inspired lobby of Sofitel Washington, D.C. Lafayette Square, which features columns, coffered ceilings, and Art Deco-era limestone marble floors with a brass inlay.
- Marvel at the grand Paris Ballroom, which has its own private entrance on H Street. This dignified ballroom is tastefully decorated in historic fashion reminiscent of 1920’s Paris, and features floor-to-ceiling windows.
Explore
- Take a look at the White House, the people’s house and the official residence and workplace of the president of the United States, which is located at the most iconic address in the city, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. Be sure to appreciate its the Neoclassical architecture.
- Roam across the National Mall, designed by Pierre Charles L’Enfant, and explore the memorials to presidents and other influential Americans, as well as wars fought in defense of the country’s ideals. Some of the memorials to visit include the Lincoln Memorial and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, as well as the World War II Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
- Explore the Smithsonian Museums, which are among the most famous museums and galleries in the world. Comprised of nine research facilities and 19 museums, including the National Zoo, the Smithsonian Museums cover a wide range of subjects including cultural history, air and space, American art, and natural history. Explore the newest Smithsonian Museum, the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Experience
- Attend a performance at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the busiest performing arts facility in the United States. This spectacular building hosts approximately 3,500 performances for nearly two million visitors every year. The Washington National Opera, the National Symphony Orchestra, and Suzanne Farrell Ballet all make their homes at the Kennedy Center.
- Experience Washington, D.C. by attending a festival. Washington is bustling all year long with a wide variety of festivals and events spread across the city’s many neighborhoods, providing a range of experiences for every visitor. Some of the most popular festivals include the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Smithsonian Folklife Festival, DC Jazz Festival, and more.
- Tour the most popular historic sites in Washington on a relaxing hop-on hop-off bus tour. Drive past many of the top attractions in the nation’s capital, including the White House, the Washington Monument, the National Mall, historic Georgetown, and Arlington National Cemetery, and choose where visitors want to get off and explore in more detail.
Taste
- Taste thoughtful, French-inspired cuisine at Opaline Bar and Brasserie. Favorites include Oysters on the Half Shell, Boudin Blanc, Steak Frites, Rattatouille, Herb Roasted Chicken and the signature Opaline Burger topped with gruyere and caramelized onions. Guests can also enjoy a spring menu with an emphasis of fresh produce and weekly French Riviera nights.
- Enjoy a delightful meal from the Enhanced Private Dining menu which can be ordered directly to guestrooms at the hotel. The menu features fresh ingredients and carefully prepared cuisine.