Grand postal stronghold
Washington's former postal headquarters commands Pennsylvania Avenue as a monumental gathering place, framing power lunches and quiet mornings beneath soaring steel trusses.
“The interior of what was once the Old Post Office Building is equally stunning: a nine-story atrium acts as the hotel's lobby and main restaurant and bar, dubbed Peacock Alley.”
Where it shines
Remarkable
Dedicated concierges reach out before arrival to tailor Capitol itineraries and book tickets.
Remarkable
An 1890s Romanesque Revival post office retaining its original clocktower and Congress bells.
Notable
Preserved steel trusses frame a nine-story skylit atrium hung with crystal chandeliers.
What they say
Forbes Four-Star
Forbes Travel Guide
2026
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
The hotel maintains much of its historic feel, thanks to 16-foot ceilings and period detailing like hardwood floors, original windows and doors.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Set on Pennsylvania Avenue in Federal Triangle, the property places the White House, Capitol Hill, and Smithsonian museums within walking distance.
The rooms
High ceilings and original solid wood doors preserve historic proportions, complemented by six-foot soaking tubs and seating nooks tucked into corner turrets.
The spa
Six treatment rooms sit in the former mailroom alongside a dedicated Himalayan salt chamber and a serenity fountain.
The gym
The 24-hour fitness center is lined with mirrors and stocked with modern cardio machines and strength equipment.
Dogs stay too.
Restaurant
Peacock Alley
Afternoon tea and evening cocktails are served beneath the atrium's soaring steel trusses and crystal chandeliers.
The 1890s Richardsonian Romanesque landmark still maintains its imposing clocktower, arches, and turrets, but gone are the omnipresent protestors; in their place are flocks of business travelers
At the table
Bazaar Meat serves wood-fired cuts and suckling pig, and Michelin-starred Sushi Nakazawa prepares a 20-piece omakase tasting menu.
How it began
Built in the 1890s as the Post Office Department headquarters, this Romanesque landmark narrowly survived multiple demolition threats before its grand revival.
Good to know
Stay here
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
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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.