Jeffersonian literary sanctum
The Book Room sets a quiet salon tone with a working fireplace, chess tables, and shelves of classic leather-bound volumes.
“It is said that Thomas Jefferson’s time in France left him with an abiding appreciation for the finer things in life.”
Where it shines
Remarkable
Military-precision evening turndown, custom Red Flower bath amenities, and knowledgeable staff delivering quiet, tailored hospitality.
Remarkable
A 1923 Beaux-Arts building displaying six original Jefferson-signed documents beneath a restored 1920s vaulted skylight.
Notable
A continuous haunt for Washington politicos and power brokers since its 1955 transition into hospitality.
What they say
Two Michelin Keys
Michelin
Forbes Recommended
Forbes Travel Guide
2026
US Readers' Choice Awards
Condé Nast Traveler
2025
Also in Wallpaper* and AFAR.
The Jefferson certainly has all the opulence and historical atmosphere you’d expect from one of the original grand dames, and the fact that it’s mostly the result of a 2009 renovation is neither here nor there.
“It’s been the go-to for plutocrats and politicos since 1955, when it morphed from a threadbare Beaux-Arts apartment building into the city’s grandest little hotel.”
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Set four blocks north of the White House on 16th Street, the hotel sits a short walk from Dupont Circle.
The rooms
Interiors feature custom furniture modeled on Monticello originals, accented by licensed estate schematic fabrics, toile, and gilded oil paintings.
The gym
Wood-paneled walls line the 24-hour fitness center, equipped with Peloton bikes, cardio machines, and TRX gear.
Treatments
Massages and customized bodywork can be booked through the concierge for private in-room sessions.
Dogs stay too.
Restaurant
The Greenhouse
Tables sit on checkerboard marble floors beneath potted palms, serving seasonal American dishes with coastal Italian notes.
Even with so much opulence, the defining characteristic of The Jefferson's design may be how refined it is — nothing seems overdone.
Bar
Quill
Cocktails are poured at a glowing amber bar, accompanied by live piano music from Tuesday through Saturday.
How it began
Originally built as Beaux-Arts apartments in 1923, a 2009 restoration uncovered a historic glass skylight concealed since World War II.
“A multimillion dollar renovation has converted this Beaux Arts gem, four blocks from the White House, into a bona fide business facility.”
Good to know
Stay here
The Jefferson
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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.