Washington D.C., DCDowntown
Le Méridien Washington, D.C., The Madison
Kennedy-era political hotel
Downtown Washington D.C., DC
Renovated
2024
Price
$$
Rated for
Design Heritage ClassicOutside the door
The house
MarriottKennedy-era political hotel
Built for mid-century capital insiders, the hotel maintains its diplomatic poise and political pedigree near 15th Street.
What it’s good at
Listed
Parker-Torres interiors blend Tidal Basin blues with motifs inspired by Jackie Kennedy.
Listed
A mid-century downtown address where Robert Redford worked on presidential screenplays.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
The White House and McPherson Square sit four blocks south, putting downtown monuments within an easy walk.
1 of 5
The rooms
Rooms have crisp tailoring and understated finishes, with penthouse suites sitting on the highest floor.
The spa & gym
Bar
Lady Madison
Bartenders shake seasonal cocktails at a marble counter lined with pink stools. Dinner draws on French and West African influences.
How it began
Developer Marshall B. Coyne opened the hotel in 1963, furnishing it with his own collection of European antiques.
Washington D.C.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.