The Watergate Hotel
A renovated mid-century-modern icon on the Foggy Bottom waterfront, leaning into its infamous name with retro style.
The call
Worth it if you only have one day and you're traveling as a couple.
Short answer
Is The Watergate Hotel worth it?
The Watergate Hotel deserves a place on most first itineraries.
The answer depends on your budget, time and travel style; the breakdown below shows who gets the most value.
Why
- 01
Sleek, curvaceous 1960s architecture reimagined with a wink at its scandalous history.
- 02
River-and-Kennedy-Center adjacent, with a notable rooftop bar.
Is it a fit?
Go if
You only have one day
Short trip or not, keep The Watergate Hotel.
You're traveling as a couple
As a couple, The Watergate Hotel is an easy yes.
You're traveling solo
Solo, The Watergate Hotel is an easy yes.
You care about the visual experience
The Watergate Hotel rewards a trip built around beauty & photography.
Think twice if
You're watching the budget
The Watergate Hotel can strain a tight budget. Go only when it is a priority.
You're traveling with kids
With kids, The Watergate Hotel needs the right timing and tolerance.
You want the trip to feel easy
The Watergate Hotel offers some relaxation, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
The night matters
The Watergate Hotel offers some nightlife, but not enough to make it the reason to go.
What you're near — and what you're not
- The Potomac waterfront & Georgetown (walkable)
- The Kennedy Center (next door)
- Foggy Bottom Metro
- The National Mall (a ride or longer walk)
- Downtown dining (a ride away)
What you're paying for
Renovated rooms and suites in a restored mid-century building, many with river or city outlooks. The rooftop bar, Top of the Gate, and the spa are part of the draw; request a Potomac-facing room for the views.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Upper-moderate to luxury rate / night