OVERVIEW of The Hay Adams

Even the most jaded political observer would have to admit to being impressed by the view from the Hay Adams, across Lafayette Square to the White House. At night with the building all lit up, it was quite spectacular.

The historic Italian Renaissance-style hotel opened in 1928 and today has 124 rooms and 21 suites. It is one of Washington’s premier addresses and a popular place for “power” breakfasts, drinks and dinner. The hotel underwent an extensive multi-million dollar renovation in 2001 and in 2010 added an additional floor with its own elevator and kitchen to create the “Top of the Hay” a rooftop event space. It has become one of the most sought after spaces for private events in town.

The renovation updated the public spaces and guestrooms, but much of the charm remains. There are antique dial phones on each floor, the original mail chutes remain, hallways and rooms are trimmed with crown moldings and the wonderful wood paneled lobby remains intact.

THE ROOMS at The Hay Adams

Our room on the 6th floor had French doors and a balcony that looked out onto Lafayette Square and the White House beyond. It was beautifully decorated with beige striped wallpaper, tulle draperies, a canopy bed, luxury linens, elegant furnishings and fresh flowers. Mirrored closet doors made the room seem larger. The marble bath had Asprey toiletries and plush towels.

DINING at The Hay Adams

Off the Record, the hotel bar is a hot spot and was called one of the “World’s Best Hotel Bars” by Forbes.com. The bar is helmed by John Boswell, 4 time winner of the “Washington’s Best Bartender” Award. Great drink, snack and lite meal menu. The bar was full when we left for dinner and still full when we returned at 10:30. The restaurant, The Lafayette, is one of Washington’s “power” breakfast spots and a highly regarded choice for an elegant dinner with live piano music, views of the White House and excellent service. No dinner on Saturday night, but a great Sunday brunch.

THE SERVICE at The Hay Adams

The service is impeccable and well thought out with the guest’s comfort and convenience well considered. The hotel provides a chauffeured Mercedes for jaunts around town. You are asked which newspapers you prefer in the morning and they are delivered to your door early. Turn down includes water, chocolates, a mat next to the bed with slippers and even Molten Brown Eye Rescue, a moisture cream for tired eyes. Room service is available 24 hours and the fitness center opens at 5am. The staff is pleasant and helpful without the “in your face” customer service at some high end hotels.

THE RATES at The Hay Adams

Weekend rates from $379.

WHAT OTHERS SAY About The Hay Adams

AAA Four Diamond Award
Forbes Four Star Award

Guests immerse themselves in the “mix of politics and intrigue” at this “sophisticated” “classic” that is across from the White House and known for its “power breakfast” scene in the Lafayette Room, as well as its rooftop private venue that treats every visitor “like royalty” (I doubt Hay or Adams would be treated better!”); the “comfortable” rooms that face Lafayette Square Park have “picture-postcard views”, leading loyalists to aver “it doesn’t get better than this in DC-unless you’re counting the Lincoln Bedroom.” ZAGAT

PROMOTIONS at The Hay Adams

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