Set in the painstakingly restored Old Post Office Building, the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC rivals the magnificence of the nearby monuments and memorials. This building has been through as much history as the city itself. Built in 1892 as a grand headquarters for the U.S. Post Office Department, the stunning building dodged demolition numerous times, but in the end, was saved due to its unique architecture and historical significance.
The building was converted into the famously controversial Trump International Hotel in 2016 and then turned into the current Waldorf Astoria in June 2022.
Today, the Waldorf Astoria is one of the most luxurious hotels in Washington, DC.
The Unforgettable Moment: Sipping chilled cucumber water in the heated Himalayan Salt Therapy Room following a deep tissue massage at the Waldorf’s spa.
Pros
- Spacious rooms and suites starting at 310 sq. ft.
- Elegant decor, including chandeliers in guest rooms
- Home to one of the most luxurious spas in the city
- Large fitness center with Peloton bikes, chilled eucalyptus towels, and fresh fruit
- Access to the Clock Tower observation deck
- Free WiFi
- Pet-Friendly
- In-house restaurant, The Bazaar by José Andrés is one of the most exclusive dining destinations in DC.
Cons
- With 263 guestrooms, the large hotel can feel impersonal
- The lobby is always busy with diners, guests, and tourists
Rooms
We’ve never been inside the White House, but the rooms at the Waldorf Astoria feel like a personal guestroom at a stately place of power. The opulent design features plush blue carpets, heavy white drapery, four-poster canopy beds, marble bathrooms, and gold accents. The sparkling chandeliers are the pièce de résistance of every room.
Standard guestrooms are spacious, starting at 310 sq. ft for a King Bed Guestroom and ranging up to 558 for a Grand King Bed Guestroom, and feature spa-like baths, double vanities, espresso machines, and glass-enclosed showers.
For a truly indulgent experience, the Waldorf offers a number of different types of suites.
Room Types
- Deluxe King Bed Guestroom (350 sq. ft.)
- Premium Two Queen Bed Guestroom (480 sq. ft.)
- Deluxe Two Queen Bed Guestroom (350 sq. ft.)
- Premium King Bed Guestroom (400 sq. ft.)
- Grand Room with two Queen Beds (570 sq. ft.)
- Junior Suite with 1 King Bed (530 sq. ft.)
- Superior Studio Suite with 1 King Bed (480-555 sq. ft.)
- One Bedroom Suite with 1 King Bed (713 sq. ft.)
- Bi-Level Loft With Library (860 sq. ft.)
- Pennslyvania Avenue One Bedroom Suite (1500 sq. ft.)
- Nancy Hanks One Bedroom Suite (1645 sq. ft.)
- Capitol One Bedroom Suite (1630 sq. ft.)
- Post Office One Bedroom Suite (1600 sq. ft.)
- Franklin One Bedroom Suite (2000 sq. ft.)
- Presidential One Bedroom Suite (4000 sq. ft.)
- Waldorf Townhouse Two Bedroom Bi-Level (6300 sq. ft.)
- Accessible Rooms: Deluxe King, Premium King, Premium 2 Queens
Luxury Check In’s Choice: The Presidential One Bedroom Suite, located in the U.S. Postmaster General’s original office, is the hotel’s best room. Look closely and you’ll find USPS symbols carved into crown moldings and window cornices
Amenities
- Pet-Friendly
- Streaming TV
- Fitness Center
- Valet parking
- Business center
- Spa
Spa
Located one floor down from the lively lobby, the Waldorf Astoria Spa is a tranquil retreat from the Washington chaos. Arrive for your treatment and you’ll be whisked into the relaxation area to unwind in a dimly lit cocoon beside a soothing water fountain. Once you’re fully in the spa mindset, you’ll be taken to one of six treatment rooms for your massage, diamond facial, or fleur de sel floral foot bath.
After, continue decompressing in the Himalayan Salt Therapy room.
Restaurants
No chef embodies Washington, DC more than José Andrés and one of his newest restaurants, The Bazaar by José Andrés takes center stage at the Waldorf. Open for breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks, and dinner, this is the place to be seen and close deals over innovative small plates.
Cementing the Waldorf’s reputation as the hotel with the best restaurant in DC is Sushi Nakazawa, a Michelin-starred omakase sushi restaurant that must be booked well in advance to secure a table or seat at the sushi bar.
For something a little more casual, Peacock Alley, located beneath the soaring glass atrium in the lobby, is open all day for guests and locals. The atrium’s stunning decorations change with the season, providing a vibrant backdrop to your meal or cocktail.
Who’s It For?
Power brokers, travelers looking for five-star luxury, spa-goers, foodies, and history buffs.
Location + How to Get There
The Waldorf Astoria occupies a prime location on Pennsylvania Avenue between The White House and the U.S. Capitol. It’s within easy walking distance to the National Mall, monuments, and numerous other attractions.
The hotel is within a 10-minute drive from Regan National Airport (DCA) and Washington Union Station, making it easily accessible no matter if you’re flying in or taking the train.
A number of Metro stops are located within a few blocks of the hotel in case you want to explore further afield.
Luxury Check In Tip: Indulge in the afternoon Clock Tower Tea, which changes seasonally, at Peacock Alley.
Overall Verdict
The Waldorf Astoria Washington DC undeniably delivers a luxurious and historic experience. However, the hefty price tag (rooms start around $500) demands serious consideration. Here’s our verdict:
- Yes, if: You crave an unforgettable stay in a landmark location, with top-notch service and amenities. Bonus points for history buffs and foodies.
- Maybe, if: You can snag a good deal.
- No, if: Luxury isn’t your top priority, or you’re on a tight budget.
How to Book
Room rates start at around $500 per night. Find a good deal on the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC at Booking.com.
FAQ
What time is check-in at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC? Check-in is at 4 p.m.
What time is check-out at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC? Check-out is at 12 p.m.
Are pets allowed at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC? Pets are allowed for a $250 fee.
Is there parking at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC? There is no self-parking, but valet parking is available for $65.
Does the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC have a pool? The hotel does not have a pool.