Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
Washington, DC
Federal Triangle
Vibe
Original metal trusses arch across the nine-story atrium, where oversized chandeliers and velvet couches give the former postal headquarters a grand gathering place.
“Postal palace”
The 1890s postal headquarters retains its imposing clocktower, Romanesque arches and original doors.
Preserved metal trusses span a nine-story atrium furnished with oversized chandeliers and velvet couches.
Concierges contact guests before arrival to arrange custom sightseeing itineraries and secure concert tickets.
On Pennsylvania Avenue beside Federal Triangle station, with National Mall museums a short walk away.
“The hotel maintains much of its historic feel, thanks to 16-foot ceilings and period detailing like hardwood floors, original windows and doors.”
Rooms
Original wood doors and tall windows preserve the building’s character, while six-foot soaking tubs sit beside separate glass-enclosed showers.
“preserved original details like arching metal truss-work are juxtaposed with new additions like oversized chandeliers and velvet couches.”
Wellness
The spa occupies the former mailroom beneath original curved ceilings, with a eucalyptus steam room and private resting cocoons in The Sanctuary.
“The 263 guest rooms and suites are truly sumptuous, with softly lit chandeliers and ornate frames surrounding sink-in king-size beds.”
Backstory
Preservationists repeatedly saved this Romanesque Revival postal headquarters from demolition, allowing its clocktower, arches and turrets to survive.
Eat & drink
Peacock Alley moves from morning coffee and pain au chocolat to The Waldorf, its Manhattan-inspired cocktail, beneath the atrium’s skylight.
The neighborhood
Federal Triangle station sits beside the hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue, with National Mall museums and the White House a short walk away.
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The app
This is one hotel. The app has every one we rate, in your pocket, for the whole trip.
Our shorthand
What makes a hotel special, how well they pull it off, and what it feels like outside the door.
How well they pull it off
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
They did this well. You’ll notice.
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Architecture and interiors lead. There’s a creative vision at work.
The guest is conspicuously well cared for. Requests met before they’re made.
Rooted in place. Local character runs through the whole stay.
Energy and scene. Where the city goes out, whether or not it’s sleeping here.
A building with history. The story of the place is part of the stay.
Built around feeling better. Rest, sweat, soak, spa.
A hotel the city grew up with. Same rituals, same regulars.
A world of its own. No reason to leave the property.
Scene — what’s outside the door
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
A place apart: the property is the destination.