Washington, D.C. isn’t just for politics—it’s a must-see spot for luxury travelers seeking history, modern design, and plenty of world-class museums. In the 2025 World’s Best Awards Travel + Leisure The best D.C. accommodations were a perfect mix of landmarks and newcomers that are ready to move us forward. Whether you crave elegant décor steps from the White House or a waterfront retreat on the Wharf, D.C.’s hotels deliver exceptional service and unforgettable experiences, just as the nation’s capital should.
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How voting works
Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. The 2025 survey was completed by nearly 180,000 T+L subscribers. Over 657,000 votes were cast for over 8,700 different properties (hotels cities cruise lines etc.).).
Based on their location, hotels were classified into resort hotels, city hotels, inns, or safari lodges. They were also rated according to the following criteria:
- Rooms/facilities
- Location
- Service
- Food
- Value
The respondents were asked to rate each characteristic. They could select excellent, superior, average, inferior, or poor. These scores are the averages.
What Readers Loved
This year’s World’s Best Awards Winners in Washington, D.C. It is clear that visitors expect to receive impeccable service, along with historic charm and convenient access to the best sights of the city. The Hay‑Adams (No. The Hay-Adams (No. The Hay-Adams has hosted a number of famous guests including Theodore Roosevelt and Amelia Earhart. The Mayflower, on the other hand, was twice the venue for Presidential campaign kickoffs including Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1931. Meanwhile, newer entry InterContinental Washington D.C. – The Wharf (No. The fourth hotel, which opened in 2017, was astonished by its stunning waterfront views. It quickly became another icon of the city. But the winner is an old favorite. Travelers can’t stop raving about it. head to D.C.
The Winner
The Jefferson
The Jefferson, Washington DC
Near the White House, in a restored 1920s building, The Jefferson is an example of understated luxury. The hotel was converted in 1955 and features a large lobby, rooms, suites, period furniture, and an original skylight. The Greenhouse serves seasonal dishes and guests can relax at Quill’s cozy bar while enjoying a nightcap. This isn’t the Jefferson’s first time at the top—readers also voted it No. It’s no surprise that the Jefferson will be ranked No. 1 in 2024. “Impeccable customer service. One guest said, “This is one of the most beautiful hotels we’ve ever been to.” Highly, highly recommended!
T+L Reader
Impeccable customer service. We have stayed in some of the most beautiful hotels. Highly, highly recommended!
— T+L Reader
The full list
1. The Jefferson
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 95.95
2. The Hay‑Adams
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 96.48%
3. The Dupont Circle
Reader Score: 91.43
4. InterContinental The Willard Washington D.C.
WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Reader Score: 90.06
5. Four Seasons Hotel Washington, D.C.
Score of Reader: 89.26
6. InterContinental Washington D.C. – The Wharf
Reader Score: 88.84
7. Park Hyatt Washington D.C.
Reader Score: 87.50%
8. The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
Reader Score: 86.67
9. Conrad Washington DC
Reader Score: 86.71
10. The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection
Reader Score: 81.83
