Checking Into Willard InterContinental in Washington D.C.
Produced in Collaboration with The Willard InterContinental Washington D.C.
Photography & Words by Alison Engstrom
Washington D.C. has something for every visitor—museums for art and culture lovers, buildings and monuments on most people’s bucket lists, a haven for political fanatics, along with a thriving food scene. When it comes time to booking your stay, the Willard InterContinental Washington D.C. hits the same high marks. Located a stone’s throw from the White House, the Treasury, and the Washington Monument, the hotel, which first opened in 1818, has stood the test of time and has expanded and grown with the city. Today the hotel offers a variety of luxury accommodations, an idyllic afternoon of high tea, a relaxing spa experience, and noteworthy dining.
Click here for first-timer’s guide to a perfect weekend in Washington D.C.
a stay with a slice of american history
If only these walls could talk is what you might think as you enter into the hotel’s grand Beaux Arts-inspired lobby and gaze up at the ceiling detailed with each state’s seal and anchored by marble columns. Throughout the property’s impressive 200-year-plus history, notable political figures and dignitaries have stayed or stopped by the hotel on their way to leaving their mark. Martin Luther King Jr. polished off his prolific I Have A Dream speech here. Ulysses S. Grant coined the word lobbyist in 1869 when his cigar and brandy, enjoyed in the lobby, were interrupted by lingering individuals looking to seek his favor. Since 1853, the hotel has welcomed every U.S. President—except one—and some have even called it home including Abraham Lincoln, who moved to the hotel before his inauguration in 1861 and Calvin Coolidge in 1923. Its notoriety stretches beyond politics, Henry Clay, a Kentucky Statesman, introduced the mint julep in the still-existing Robin Bar in the 1830s and it would go on to become the hotel’s signature drink, where they serve more than 20,000 libations each year.
Enjoy French bistro fare at café du parc
Savor the traditional flavors of France with a contemporary twist at Café du Parc, situated next to the hotel. Since it opened in 1997, it’s been serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner where guests can expect a bistro-inspired menu including a range of salads and signature French bites like croque monsieur for lunch. For dinner you can be transported to the south of France with dishes like Bouillabaisse and truffled mashed potatoes.
Above The outdoor dining area at Cafe du Parc is perfect for people watching.
Above A gilded mirror hangs inside of the Oval Suite (left). A room with a view of the Washington Monument (right).
Your stay
There are an array of accommodations to choose from—the hotel has 335 rooms—including classic and premium options and suites, like the Abraham Lincoln, which nods to the fact that you are in the nation’s capital. Each spacious room is furnished with the InterContinental’s inviting Simmon’s Beauty Rest pillow top mattresses, Byredo’s alluring Bal d’Afrique scented products, and a Nespresso machine.
Above Each accomodation is stocked with heavenly scented products from Byredo.
Above Peacock Alley detailed with plush gilded seating and cozy lighting. It is also where afternoon tea is served.
Delight in Afternoon Tea
While any trip, especially visiting a city for the first time can be go, go, go, it’s nice to have a reason to slow down and soak in your surroundings. Afternoon tea at the Willard gives you that opportunity all in the timeless setting of Peacock Alley. Relax to the soothing strums of a harpist, the gentle clanking of tea cups, and soft chatter while you delight in inventive pastries, finger sandwiches, and a delicious range of teas from J’enwey Tea Company. The menu, which recently received an overhaul, suits all palettes and needs including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free. Depending on your preference can include a melt-in-your-mouth tomato, basil, mozzarella mascarpone tart, or a cucumber sandwich with citrus-scented cream cheese. Pastries include a luscious strawberry ginger choux and an unexpected banana chocolate tart, which will make you question why you don’t pair the two flavors more often. No tea experience would be complete without scones and the Willard has mastered this confection. Served warm, they are accompanied by decadent spreads including lemon curd and Devonshire cream. This memorable experience is open to both guests and the general public and reservations must be made in advance.
You might also enjoy
JW Marriot Cusco
the Retreat at The Blue Lagoon