For more than two centuries, Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. has stood at the center of the nation’s political, social, and cultural life. Often referred to as “America’s Hotel” and the “Residence of Presidents,” Willard has welcomed world leaders, diplomats, writers, and distinguished guests while bearing witness to defining moments in American history.
Perfectly positioned just steps from the White House and directly along Pennsylvania Avenue, Willard offers an unparalleled setting to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary in the heart of the nation’s capital. As Nathaniel Hawthorne famously observed in 1862, the historic hotel “may be much more justly called the centre of Washington and the Union than either the Capitol, the White House or the State Department.”
As Washington, D.C. marks this historic milestone, we invite guests to experience exceptional dining, historic accommodations, and memorable moments at one of America’s most iconic hotels.
For more than 200 years, Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. has stood at the crossroads of the nation’s most significant political, cultural, and social moments. Often referred to as “America’s Hotel” and the “Residence of Presidents,” the historic property has welcomed U.S. presidents, foreign dignitaries, world leaders, writers, and notable figures since 1818.
Located along Pennsylvania Avenue just steps from the White House and the National Mall, Willard has witnessed pivotal moments in American history, from Abraham Lincoln’s stay before his inauguration to the drafting of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” the origins of the term “lobbyist,” and the first Japanese diplomatic delegation to the United States.
As Washington, D.C. commemorates America’s 250th anniversary, there is no more fitting place to experience this historic milestone than one of the nation’s most iconic hotels.
Washington marks the nation’s 250th anniversary with exhibitions, performances, and commemorative programming across the city through the end of the year. Willard InterContinental stands on Pennsylvania Avenue, two blocks from the White House and a short walk from the National Mall, the Smithsonian museums, and the monuments at the center of it all.
Guests can pair a stay with afternoon tea in the Willard Tea Room, cocktails at the historic Round Robin Bar, and dining at Café du Parc.
From historic landmarks to special America 250 programming throughout the nation’s capital, experience one of the most significant moments in modern American history from the heart of Pennsylvania Avenue.
Begin the day exploring the National Mall and the capital’s most celebrated monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol grounds. Throughout the city, guests can experience special America 250 festivities, patriotic programming, public art installations, and commemorative events taking place across Washington, D.C.
Discover the rich history surrounding Pennsylvania Avenue and the White House before returning to Willard InterContinental for cocktails at Round Robin Bar, afternoon tea, and special America 250 experiences throughout the hotel. Guests may also enjoy commemorative programming and festivities unfolding throughout downtown Washington, D.C.
Close the day with dinner at Café du Parc or a nightcap at the Round Robin Bar, where Henry Clay is said to have mixed the city’s first mint julep. Across the city, America 250 programming continues with concerts, exhibitions, and commemorative events at venues throughout the nation’s capital.
Following the completion of a comprehensive restoration of all guestrooms and signature suites, Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. offers an exceptional blend of historic character and contemporary luxury in the heart of the nation’s capital.
Inspired by iconic American figures and historic moments, Willard’s restored signature suites honor presidents, first ladies, civil rights leaders, writers, and cultural pioneers who helped shape the nation’s story.
Thoughtfully redesigned guestrooms blend classic architectural details with refined contemporary finishes, offering luxurious accommodations steps from the White House, National Mall, and America 250 celebrations throughout Washington, D.C.
From the George Washington Presidential Suite to tributes honoring Eleanor Roosevelt, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Frederick Douglass, and Martin Luther King Jr., each space reflects the enduring legacy of American history at Willard.
Helpful information for planning your America 250 experience at Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.
Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. is located on Pennsylvania Avenue, just steps from the White House, the National Mall, and many of the city’s major America 250 venues and commemorative events.
Yes. The National Mall, the Smithsonian museums, and the White House are all a short walk from the hotel, making it a convenient base for America 250 events across downtown Washington, D.C.
Guests can enjoy luxury accommodations, afternoon tea in the Willard Tea Room, cocktails at the Round Robin Bar, and dining at Café du Parc, all within a hotel that has hosted presidents and dignitaries since 1818.
Current packages and seasonal rates are listed on our Special Offers page. Availability changes throughout the year, so we recommend checking there or contacting our reservations team.
Established in 1818, Willard InterContinental has hosted presidents, diplomats, writers, and cultural leaders for more than two centuries, earning its reputation as one of America’s most iconic historic hotels.
Washington, D.C. hosts public programming, concerts, exhibitions, and commemorative events throughout the America 250 period, continuing through the end of the year. The official DC250 calendar lists what is coming up.