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1818
The Willard InterContinental, Washington DC
Washington, District of Columbia
1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20004
Original Property Opened in 1818
Historic Hotels of America member since 2010
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A most celebrated historic Washington, D.C. hotel, The Willard InterContinental has been the focal point for elegant dinners, meetings, and social events since 1818. Located in the heart of Washington, one block from The White House, The Willard has hosted almost every U.S. president since Franklin Pierce in 1853. Ranked among the “Top 10 Best Hotels in Washington, D.C., 2019” by U.S. News & World Report, The Willard’s unique blend of contemporary luxury and historic charm subtly reflects the spirit of the city.
Discover
- Step through the brass doors of the magnificently designed Beaux-Arts Willard InterContinental, Washington, D.C. to see the grand lobby’s completely restored, coffered ceilings, Corinthian columns, rare mosaic floors, brass chandeliers, and intricate woodwork. Then, look up to find the 48 hand-painted state seals that adorn the ceiling of the lobby, then find Alaska and Hawaii featured nearby in the luxurious Peacock Alley.
- Discover the micro-museum in the back of The Willard, which features exhibits on key events that took place at The Willard, like Julia Ward Howe’s penning of Battle Hymn of the Republic, and Martin Luther King sitting in the lobby to finish his “I Have a Dream” speech.
- Walk “The Extra Mile”- Points of Light Volunteer Pathway located just outside of the lobby of The Willard; this National Monument honors over 30 influential Americans who helped to create positive change across the country.
Explore
- Walk through the architecturally stunning United States Capitol Building and admire the Brumidi Corridors and historic Capitol Dome. Sit in the Senate or House galleries and watch Congress in session, then head outside and look at the Statue of Freedom that crowns the dome.
- Explore the National Mall, designed by Pierre Charles L’Enfant, and explore 19 Smithsonian Museums. From the Air and Space Museum to the National Museum of African American History and Culture, visitors will visit some of the world’s best museums.
- Gaze at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial honoring those who served in the Vietnam War and admire the long black granite panels that constitute the Memorial Wall. The Memorial Wall has a mirror effect, symbolically bringing the past and present together when visitors gaze at the engraved names and their own reflection.
Experience
- Walk down Pennsylvania Avenue to discover America’s past with a visit to the National Archives Building, home to the Charters of Freedom: the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, and the Bill of Rights.
- Attend a world-class performance at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in the main Concert Hall or enjoy one of the free performances that take place every day at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage.
- Tour George Washington’s historic Mount Vernon Estate to experience the life of colonial Americans by touring Washington’s home, gardens, and outbuildings such as the distillery and gristmill.
Taste
- Taste a delightful cup of tea in The Willard’s Peacock Alley. A Washington, D.C. tradition for more than 150 years, this opulent setting features live harp music, fine teas, and an array of beautiful tea sandwiches and pastries.
- Try a Mint Julep at the Willard’s own Round Robin Bar, where it is said that Senator Henry Clay introduced the Southern favorite to Washington. Ask if legendary bartender and unofficial historian Jim Hewes is present to learn about the cocktail habits of former presidents.
- Enjoy a meal in the main dining room of The Occidental restaurant. A gathering place for the nation’s political powerbrokers, sports figures, and celebrities since 1906, the photos of these notables line the walls of the restaurant and serve as a barometer for the city and a reminder of the honorable, scandalous, and fun adventures that have taken place within its walls.
Featured Offers
Best Available Rate
Book the Best Available Rate at this property on HistoricHotels.org and receive a complimentary one-year family membership (a $30 value) to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.
Daily Parking Package
A perfect package for anyone driving to the Washington DC area.
National Trust for Historic Preservation Special Member Rate - Save up to 15% off
Friends of Historic Hotels of America receive up to 15% off the Best Available Rate at member hotels.
