Lodge Washington Evaluate: DC Cherry Blossom Season Information


Cherry blossom season in DC is a kind of journeys that rewards getting it proper. The height lasts every week at most, usually much less, however the full blossom season runs two to 3 weeks and the window remains to be spectacular all through. The place you keep modifications all the things. Meaning peak bloom timing, a lodge shut sufficient to stroll in every single place, and someplace value coming again to on the finish of the day. Hotel Washington delivers on all three, and it does so at a stage that genuinely justifies the class it’s in.

We’ve been to DC earlier than. We thought we knew what to anticipate. Cherry blossom season at peak bloom, with the proper lodge behind you, seems to be a wholly totally different metropolis. Two days, 1000’s of steps, one unforgettable rooftop dinner, and we left already planning subsequent yr.

The Hotel Washington DC entrance lit up at night during cherry blossom season, with dramatic pink and orange floral arch installations framing the black entrance canopy displaying the Hotel Washington name in gold lettering, topiary plants flanking the doorway, a doorman standing at the entrance, and the front hood of a red Ferrari visible in the foreground Lodge Washington DC entrance at evening throughout cherry blossom season | Picture: Higher Residing

Lodge Washington has been a DC landmark since 1917, internet hosting world leaders, celebrities, and dignitaries throughout greater than a century of American historical past. Elvis stayed right here on his approach to meet President Nixon on the White Home. Harrison Ford reportedly purchased drinks for your entire rooftop bar. That very same rooftop was additionally featured in The Godfather Half II.

In the present day, it’s a Forbes Verified Luxurious, 5-star property with 326 rooms and suites, three distinct eating locations, a full-service spa, and one of the vital coveted rooftop views within the nation. If you happen to observe our luxury hotel reviews, this one belongs in your radar. The repute is nicely earned.

Lodge Washington at a Look

Location: 515 fifteenth St NW, Washington, DC 20004

Score: Forbes Verified Luxurious  ·  5-Star Lodge

Worth Vary: $$$–$$$$

Rooms: 326 rooms and suites, together with Monument view choices

Parking: Valet through LAZ Parking, $80/evening plus tax, with out and in privileges

Vacation spot Payment: $42/evening plus tax — consists of health heart, Wi-Fi, $15 Fireclay eating credit score, and extra

Eating: VUE Rooftop, Fireclay Restaurant and Foyer Bar, The Patio

Facilities: Full-service spa, 24/7 health heart, in-room Nespresso, rainfall showers, 12,000 sq ft occasion area

Greatest For: Cherry blossom season, romantic getaways, DC exploration, meals lovers

Value Realizing: All eating features a 20% gratuity. Fireclay desk seating could also be restricted throughout off-peak hours.

Reservations: thehotelwashington.com  |  (202) 661-2400

Arrival and First Impressions

The Hotel Washington DC lobby lounge viewed through ornate gold perforated metal panels, revealing an elegant cream and white room with soaring plaster coffered ceilings featuring Corinthian columns and an arched fanlight window, black and white diamond marble floors, a curved dove gray sofa on a cream rug, olive green and mustard curved accent chairs, tall tropical plants, and decorative circular wall sculptures
The Hotel Washington DC lobby lounge viewed through ornate gold perforated metal panels, revealing an elegant cream and white room with soaring plaster coffered ceilings featuring Corinthian columns and an arched fanlight window, black and white diamond marble floors, a curved dove gray sofa on a cream rug, olive green and mustard curved accent chairs, tall tropical plants, and decorative circular wall sculptures The foyer lounge at Lodge Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

We pulled up round 2 p.m., two hours forward of the usual 4 p.m. check-in. Valet was quick and genuinely pleasant, and the entrance desk held our baggage with out hesitation and supplied to alert us the second the room was prepared. Most inns make early arrivals really feel like an imposition. This one didn’t. We dropped our baggage and headed straight out to begin exploring, which felt like precisely the proper approach to start a cherry blossom journey.

Strolling into the foyer for the primary time, the speedy impression is area and light-weight. Extra open and ethereal than you would possibly anticipate from a historic downtown property, with beneficiant seating all through and an vitality that feels welcoming quite than intimidating. The design reveals itself progressively. Black and white checkerboard marble flooring. Glowing brass wall panels etched with graphic motifs. Customized illustrations on the entrance desk that really feel equal elements playful and complex.

Throughout cherry blossom season, a full floral set up with a neon Lodge Washington signal takes over one nook of the foyer and turns into a direct focus. We stopped to take it in earlier than we had even discovered the elevator.

The Hotel Washington DC check-in area viewed through the gold brass perforated entrance panels, showing the dramatic black and white diamond marble floors, illuminated front desk stations with custom black and white cartoon illustration panels depicting Washington DC political scenes, black neon light column accents, a staff member at the desk, and a second floor mezzanine with white iron railings visible above
The Hotel Washington DC check-in area viewed through the gold brass perforated entrance panels, showing the dramatic black and white diamond marble floors, illuminated front desk stations with custom black and white cartoon illustration panels depicting Washington DC political scenes, black neon light column accents, a staff member at the desk, and a second floor mezzanine with white iron railings visible above The Lodge Washington DC check-in foyer and entrance desk | Picture: Higher Residing

The design rewards anybody who pays consideration. The foyer arches characterize the curiosity teams generally lobbied for within the nation’s capital. The constellations contained in the elevators map the evening sky because it appeared on important dates in American historical past, from July 4, 1776 to January 20, 2009. The spiral staircase chandeliers are unique to the 1917 opening. Each evenings, stepping outdoors to search out the doorway lit up at evening, the floral set up glowing in opposition to the darkish facade and a cherry pink Ferrari parked out entrance, we stopped and simply took it in. Some inns are only a place to remain. This one is a scene.

💡 Arrival Tip

Test-in is at 4 p.m. however arriving earlier is value it. Valet is quick, the entrance desk holds your baggage with out subject, and they’re going to warn you the second your room is prepared. You could be out exploring inside minutes of pulling up.

Cherry Blossom Season: Why This Is the Proper Base

A wide view of the Tidal Basin in Washington DC during cherry blossom peak bloom, showing a long arc of pink flowering Yoshino cherry trees lining the waterfront path, with crowds of visitors walking along the seawall, several blue and white paddle boats on the calm water in the foreground, and the Washington Monument rising tall against a partly cloudy blue sky on the right side of the frame
A wide view of the Tidal Basin in Washington DC during cherry blossom peak bloom, showing a long arc of pink flowering Yoshino cherry trees lining the waterfront path, with crowds of visitors walking along the seawall, several blue and white paddle boats on the calm water in the foreground, and the Washington Monument rising tall against a partly cloudy blue sky on the right side of the frame Cherry blossom season on the Tidal Basin, Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

We timed this journey for peak bloom, and peak bloom it was. The Tidal Basin was genuinely packed, extra crowded than we anticipated, however the vitality of that crowd was one thing we weren’t ready for in the very best method.

Everybody there, and there have been 1000’s of individuals from what felt like each nook of the world, was merely joyful to be precisely the place they had been. On an ideal spring day, at full bloom, sharing one thing stunning with strangers who all confirmed up for a similar purpose. It was a kind of uncommon public experiences the place the gang turns into a part of what makes it particular quite than one thing to navigate round.

The cherry blossoms deliver a specific type of pleasure to the individuals who come to see them, and being in the course of that’s one thing value experiencing at the least as soon as.

Why Location Makes All of the Distinction

The Hotel Washington DC facade photographed from street level looking up during cherry blossom season, showing the full height of the historic brick building with ornate terracotta decorative panels, the black entrance canopy with Hotel Washington in gold letters, and an elaborate floral arch of pink and orange blooms flanked by topiary balls and potted flowers
The Hotel Washington DC facade photographed from street level looking up during cherry blossom season, showing the full height of the historic brick building with ornate terracotta decorative panels, the black entrance canopy with Hotel Washington in gold letters, and an elaborate floral arch of pink and orange blooms flanked by topiary balls and potted flowers Lodge Washington DC entrance with spring floral arch | Picture: Higher Residing

Site visitors out and in of DC throughout blossom season will not be straightforward to navigate, which is strictly why the place you keep issues a lot.

Having a lodge you may merely arrive at, hand off the automotive, and start strolling from modifications your entire expertise. The Washington Monument is a five-minute stroll from the entrance door. The Tidal Basin is about twenty minutes on foot, with the stroll there winding by further bloom and previous a number of of the town’s most vital memorials. There is no such thing as a rental automotive to fret about, no parking state of affairs to unravel, no transit to determine. You might be simply there, in the course of it, which is the entire level.

Lodge Washington leans totally into the season and it really works. The Cherry Blossom package, out there by mid-April, features a welcome basket with Sakura tea, Japanese Equipment Kats, Sakura Mochi candies, and a commemorative magnet, together with a $25 each day eating credit score and a $10 donation per reserving to the Undertake a Cherry Tree undertaking. It’s a uncommon lodge package deal the place each factor makes real sense for the second.

Among the many luxurious choices inside strolling distance of the Tidal Basin, nothing matches this mixture of location, design, and eating.

🌸 Cherry Blossom Ideas

Put on comfy sneakers. Plan on two or extra hours of strolling to do the complete Tidal Basin loop and take within the memorials. Sneakers are the proper name, full cease. Test our city trip packing tips if you’re nonetheless placing your bag collectively.

Deliver water and an actual digicam. The sunshine by the blossoms on the Tidal Basin is value the additional effort past your cellphone.

Take an Uber to the Jefferson Memorial and stroll again. Begin on the most iconic view and let the complete loop deliver you residence. Lodge Washington is ready on the different finish.

Go early. Peak bloom lasts solely 4 to seven days. Watch the Nationwide Park Service forecast at nps.gov and hit the Tidal Basin earlier than 9 a.m. in order for you respiratory room. The lodge’s walkability makes the early begin genuinely straightforward.

Ebook early for charges, not simply bloom timing. Spring charges at Lodge Washington replicate the season. The sooner you e-book, the higher your choices on each room class and value.

The Monument View King Spa Suite

The bedroom area of the Monument View King Spa Suite at Hotel Washington DC, showing a king bed with white linens and warm amber accent lighting, a large black door panel covered floor to ceiling in white lettering, a bold red velvet lounge chair, and floor-to-ceiling windows letting in bright natural light
The bedroom area of the Monument View King Spa Suite at Hotel Washington DC, showing a king bed with white linens and warm amber accent lighting, a large black door panel covered floor to ceiling in white lettering, a bold red velvet lounge chair, and floor-to-ceiling windows letting in bright natural light Monument View King Spa Suite bed room at Lodge Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

Our room was prepared by mid-afternoon and strolling into the Monument View King Spa Suite for the primary time, it delivered instantly. The suite has a separate dwelling space, a full bed room, and an outsized marble toilet, and it’s designed with real conviction. The espresso and seating space includes a floor-to-ceiling mural by artist Amit Greenberg, layered and detailed and the type of work you retain discovering new issues in. This suite is enjoyable, comfy, and trendy.

The living room of the Monument View King Spa Suite at Hotel Washington DC, featuring a gray sectional sofa, bold red lounge chair, wall-sized flat screen television, colorful pendant light fixture in green and white, and a black wall covered in white text lettering, with a red lacquered bar and Amit Greenberg mural visible in the background
The living room of the Monument View King Spa Suite at Hotel Washington DC, featuring a gray sectional sofa, bold red lounge chair, wall-sized flat screen television, colorful pendant light fixture in green and white, and a black wall covered in white text lettering, with a red lacquered bar and Amit Greenberg mural visible in the background The Monument View King Spa Suite lounge at Lodge Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

The lounge tv takes up your entire wall. It’s large. The bed room has a second display, and the pink lacquered bar space holds the Nespresso machine and glassware with seating for 4.

The king bed of the Monument View King Spa Suite at Hotel Washington DC photographed from the foot of the bed, showing crisp white Egyptian cotton linens, a warm bedside lamp with a geometric gold tripod base, floor-length cream curtains partially open, and a large multi-pane black-framed window with the Washington Monument visible in the distance against a soft blue sky with bare spring trees in the foreground
The king bed of the Monument View King Spa Suite at Hotel Washington DC photographed from the foot of the bed, showing crisp white Egyptian cotton linens, a warm bedside lamp with a geometric gold tripod base, floor-length cream curtains partially open, and a large multi-pane black-framed window with the Washington Monument visible in the distance against a soft blue sky with bare spring trees in the foreground Monument View King Spa Suite bed room with Washington Monument view, Lodge Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

However the second that stayed with us was easier than any of that. Waking up the primary morning and searching as much as discover the Washington Monument completely framed within the bed room window. That view, with a Lavazza espresso in hand and nowhere to be for an additional hour, is the type of factor a lodge room nearly by no means truly delivers. This one did.

The Toilet

The full marble bathroom of the Monument View King Spa Suite at Hotel Washington DC, featuring floor-to-ceiling white Carrara-style marble with dramatic grey veining on all walls and floors, a sculptural freestanding white soaking tub positioned in the corner with a chrome freestanding tub filler and handheld shower attachment, a white towel draped over the chrome fixture, a square backlit LED mirror mounted on the marble wall with a small shelf below holding dark glass toiletry bottles, and a plush white hotel bathrobe hanging on a chrome hook on the left wall
The full marble bathroom of the Monument View King Spa Suite at Hotel Washington DC, featuring floor-to-ceiling white Carrara-style marble with dramatic grey veining on all walls and floors, a sculptural freestanding white soaking tub positioned in the corner with a chrome freestanding tub filler and handheld shower attachment, a white towel draped over the chrome fixture, a square backlit LED mirror mounted on the marble wall with a small shelf below holding dark glass toiletry bottles, and a plush white hotel bathrobe hanging on a chrome hook on the left wall The marble toilet within the Monument View King Spa Suite at Lodge Washington DC. | Picture: Higher Residing

The toilet was a real delight. Full marble encompass, a deep freestanding soaking tub that earned its place after a full day of strolling the town, a rainfall bathe that was nearly as good because it appeared, and spa-weight robes ready on the hook. After two days of overlaying critical floor on foot, coming again to that loo was pure luxurious. We slept exceptionally nicely each nights, which in a downtown metropolis lodge is its personal type of achievement.

The place to Eat and Drink at Lodge Washington

Yellowfin Tuna Crudo served at VUE Rooftop at Hotel Washington DC, presented in a deep blue ceramic bowl filled with vivid golden yellow sauce, topped with thick slices of raw tuna, sliced green jalapeños, small red cherry peppers, pickled shallots, and a nest of crispy fried dark seaweed, finished with green herb oil drizzled over the sauce
Yellowfin Tuna Crudo served at VUE Rooftop at Hotel Washington DC, presented in a deep blue ceramic bowl filled with vivid golden yellow sauce, topped with thick slices of raw tuna, sliced green jalapeños, small red cherry peppers, pickled shallots, and a nest of crispy fried dark seaweed, finished with green herb oil drizzled over the sauce Yellowfin Tuna Crudo at VUE Rooftop, Lodge Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

Lodge Washington has two dining experiences value realizing nicely. The kitchen throughout each is led by Govt Chef Jerome Grant, whose method is rooted in his DMV upbringing and refined by celebrated kitchens. His dedication to Mid-Atlantic substances and genuinely intentional cooking reveals in each dish. A 20% gratuity is included throughout all eating, which is value realizing once you sit down.

Fireclay Restaurant and Foyer Bar

Three steamed Duck Confit Bao Buns served on a slate blue ceramic plate at Fireclay Lobby Bar at Hotel Washington DC, each soft white bao bun generously filled with tender shredded duck confit, topped with sliced red chili peppers, fresh cilantro leaves, and pickled accompaniments, presented on a woven dark rattan surface with a rocks glass of ice water and a small black check presenter visible in the soft-focus background
Three steamed Duck Confit Bao Buns served on a slate blue ceramic plate at Fireclay Lobby Bar at Hotel Washington DC, each soft white bao bun generously filled with tender shredded duck confit, topped with sliced red chili peppers, fresh cilantro leaves, and pickled accompaniments, presented on a woven dark rattan surface with a rocks glass of ice water and a small black check presenter visible in the soft-focus background Duck Confit Bao Buns at Fireclay Foyer Bar, Lodge Washington DC. | Picture: Higher Residing

Fireclay is the lodge’s all-day restaurant and foyer bar, and it served us nicely throughout two meals. One factor value realizing: after 2pm the principle eating room desk seating could also be closed, and you can be directed to the bar or high-top tables close to the bar as a substitute. We didn’t know that getting in and it was mildly sudden, although not an issue as soon as we settled in. The bar space is relaxed and cozy, and for a late afternoon meal after a protracted day of strolling it turned out to be precisely the proper vitality.

The meals at Fireclay is finest understood as a real lodge restaurant that occurs to be superb quite than a vacation spot eating expertise in its personal proper. There are distinctive eating places throughout this lodge, however in order for you the complete Lodge Washington expertise, a signature cocktail and some dishes at Fireclay is value doing. The $15 nightly Fireclay credit score from the vacation spot price helps make that straightforward.

A generous serving of Spicy Shrimp Bucatini at Fireclay Restaurant at Hotel Washington DC, presented on a speckled white ceramic plate, featuring thick bucatini pasta coated in a deep orange-red spicy tomato broth, topped with several large whole shrimp, finely chopped green chives and fresh herbs, a wedge of lemon on the side, and a silver fork resting in the dish, with a glass of ice water and folded striped napkin visible in the soft-focus background
A generous serving of Spicy Shrimp Bucatini at Fireclay Restaurant at Hotel Washington DC, presented on a speckled white ceramic plate, featuring thick bucatini pasta coated in a deep orange-red spicy tomato broth, topped with several large whole shrimp, finely chopped green chives and fresh herbs, a wedge of lemon on the side, and a silver fork resting in the dish, with a glass of ice water and folded striped napkin visible in the soft-focus background Spicy Shrimp Bucatini at Fireclay Restaurant, Lodge Washington DC. Truthful warning: the warmth is actual. | Picture: Higher Residing

The Spicy Shrimp Bucatini was wealthy and satisfying, however honest warning: the warmth is actual. Extra kick than we anticipated, which we cherished and would order it once more with out hesitation. The Duck Confit Bao Buns had been tender with shiny pink pepper and cilantro slicing by the richness cleanly. The Sizzling Crispy Rooster Sandwich arrived sliced, which made sharing straightforward, and disappeared simply as quick, crunchy and saucy with a real kick and a sesame bun that held as much as all of it. We break up all the things on that meal and it was precisely the correct quantity of meals. We completed with the Cherry Blossom Shortcake, a seasonal particular that was mild, creamy, and cooled down the warmth.

Breakfast at Fireclay

A close-up of the Mixed Berry Yogurt Bowl served at breakfast at Fireclay Restaurant at Hotel Washington DC, showing a rustic brown-rimmed ceramic bowl filled with creamy white Greek yogurt topped with a generous arrangement of fresh blackberries, blueberries, sliced strawberries, and raspberries, sprinkled with golden bee pollen, house-made granola, and pumpkin seeds, garnished with a fresh mint sprig, with a silver spoon inserted in the bowl and a wooden board of warm pastries including a chocolate croissant visible in the soft-focus background
A close-up of the Mixed Berry Yogurt Bowl served at breakfast at Fireclay Restaurant at Hotel Washington DC, showing a rustic brown-rimmed ceramic bowl filled with creamy white Greek yogurt topped with a generous arrangement of fresh blackberries, blueberries, sliced strawberries, and raspberries, sprinkled with golden bee pollen, house-made granola, and pumpkin seeds, garnished with a fresh mint sprig, with a silver spoon inserted in the bowl and a wooden board of warm pastries including a chocolate croissant visible in the soft-focus background Combined Berry Yogurt Bowl at Fireclay Restaurant, Lodge Washington DC. The breakfast that units the tone for the entire day. | Picture: Higher Residing

Breakfast on checkout morning was a distinct expertise completely, and a greater one. We sat within the eating space and our server Omar set the tone for the entire meal. Espresso was by no means lower than scorching, refills arrived earlier than we thought to ask, and his recommendations once we had been undecided turned out to be precisely proper. The Combined Berry Yogurt Bowl with Greek yogurt, seasonal berries, house-made granola, bee pollen, and honey struck a uncommon steadiness between indulgent and genuinely nourishing. The Fireclay Omelet with charred tomato, mushrooms, spinach, and cheddar alongside Chef’s potatoes and crispy bacon was a hearty and correct send-off. The Bread Board gave us just a few treats to take residence. Breakfast right here, with the proper server and nowhere to hurry, is a kind of meals that makes a lodge keep really feel full.

What We Ordered at Fireclay

Breakfast

Combined Berry Yogurt Bowl  ·  Fireclay Omelet with bacon  ·  Bread Board

Late Lunch

Spicy Shrimp Bucatini  ·  Duck Confit Bao Buns  ·  Sizzling Crispy Rooster Sandwich  ·  Cherry Blossom Shortcake

VUE Rooftop

Crispy Branzino served at VUE Rooftop at Hotel Washington DC, featuring two seared fish fillets with crackling skin presented in a shallow golden broth with enoki mushrooms, wilted greens, and potato, topped with bright red pickled pepper strips and fresh cilantro, with a pink cocktail flower visible at the left edge of the frame
Crispy Branzino served at VUE Rooftop at Hotel Washington DC, featuring two seared fish fillets with crackling skin presented in a shallow golden broth with enoki mushrooms, wilted greens, and potato, topped with bright red pickled pepper strips and fresh cilantro, with a pink cocktail flower visible at the left edge of the frame Crispy Branzino at VUE Rooftop, Lodge Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

VUE Rooftop is constantly ranked among the many finest rooftops in Washington, DC, and after one dinner right here we perceive why utterly.

We arrived round 6 p.m. to take our time with drinks and appetizers earlier than the sundown, and that timing turned out to be precisely proper. The rooftop was buzzing with packed, electrical vitality, the type of room the place you’re feeling like you’re someplace. Reservations are important right here, notably throughout cherry blossom season, and never one thing to go away till the final minute.

VUE Rooftop is the uncommon restaurant the place the vibe and the meals are definitely worth the journey, and the displays are as gorgeous because the views.

The view is a kind of issues that’s genuinely troublesome to oversell as a result of images don’t totally put together you for it. The Washington Monument instantly forward, the White Home seen to the proper, after which the sky begins to shift coloration behind all the things and the entire metropolis appears prefer it was organized only for you.

The view from VUE- A wide aerial view of Washington DC at sunset showing the Washington Monument silhouetted against a vivid pink and coral sky, with a neoclassical federal building lit in warm golden light to the left, Pennsylvania Avenue stretching into the distance lined with flags and cherry blossom trees, Capital Bikeshare docking stations in the foreground, and pedestrians and cyclists visible at street level
The view from VUE- A wide aerial view of Washington DC at sunset showing the Washington Monument silhouetted against a vivid pink and coral sky, with a neoclassical federal building lit in warm golden light to the left, Pennsylvania Avenue stretching into the distance lined with flags and cherry blossom trees, Capital Bikeshare docking stations in the foreground, and pedestrians and cyclists visible at street level Washington DC at sundown with the Washington Monument | Picture: Higher Residing

Each dish had a taste profile that pleasantly shocked us, extra layered and thought of than we anticipated getting in. Good parts, stunning displays, and nothing that missed. The Yellowfin Tuna Crudo was elegant, recent, and deliciously colourful. The Coastal Fritto, cornmeal-crusted shrimp and calamari with Calabrian chili mayo was completely fried and utterly addictive. The Crispy Branzino arrived with the pores and skin nonetheless crackling in a light-weight broth with citrus and fennel.

The 48-Hour Smoked Short Rib served at VUE Rooftop at Hotel Washington DC, presented on a dark plate with a gold rim, showing sliced deeply glazed and smoked beef short rib topped with pickled mustard seeds and chopped chives, alongside charred white sweet potato and broccolini in a rich dark pan sauce
The 48-Hour Smoked Short Rib served at VUE Rooftop at Hotel Washington DC, presented on a dark plate with a gold rim, showing sliced deeply glazed and smoked beef short rib topped with pickled mustard seeds and chopped chives, alongside charred white sweet potato and broccolini in a rich dark pan sauce 48-Hour Smoked Quick Rib at VUE Rooftop, Lodge Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

The 48-Hour Smoked Quick Rib was the dish of the night: deeply glazed, fork-tender, with white candy potato and broccolini and a end of pickled mustard seed and chives that pulled the entire plate collectively. The VXB Chocolate Bar with pistachio nougat, date caramel, and pistachio gelato was a showstopper. Don’t skip dessert at VUE.

The Power to the Peaches signature cocktail at VUE Rooftop at Hotel Washington DC, served in a crystal cut wine glass garnished with a purple orchid and fresh mint sprig, photographed on a black window ledge with the Washington Monument and National Mall visible in soft focus in the background at dusk
The Power to the Peaches signature cocktail at VUE Rooftop at Hotel Washington DC, served in a crystal cut wine glass garnished with a purple orchid and fresh mint sprig, photographed on a black window ledge with the Washington Monument and National Mall visible in soft focus in the background at dusk Energy to the Peaches cocktail at VUE Rooftop, Lodge Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

VUE has a formidable cocktail selection and we each ended up ordering the Energy to the Peaches with Gray Goose Essences Vodka, Cointreau, Chandon Backyard Spritz, chamomile, honey, and lemon. The menu calls it a VUE staple, and that’s correct. It’s refreshing, mild, colourful, and paired with all the things. Don’t miss it.

We had been warmly greeted earlier than we had been even seated, and the entrance desk had set the tone with a desk providing an unobstructed view and a welcome that made us really feel anticipated quite than simply accommodated. A number of workers tended to us all through the night, which meant somebody was at all times close by with out ever hovering. Each dish that got here to the desk had been steered by a suggestion, and each suggestion landed.

What We Ordered at VUE Rooftop

To Share

Yellowfin Tuna Crudo  ·  Coastal Fritto

Mains

Crispy Branzino  ·  48-Hour Smoked Quick Rib

Dessert

VXB Chocolate Bar

Cocktails

Energy to the Peaches  ·  we each ordered one. Begin right here.

📋 VUE Reservation Word

Ebook through OpenTable earlier than you arrive, ideally on the identical time you reserve the room. Throughout cherry blossom season this rooftop fills utterly. Ask for a window or terrace desk and plan to reach round 6 p.m. to catch the cocktail hour and the sundown in the identical sitting.

Day Two: Monuments, Blossoms, and a French Brasserie Across the Nook

The Washington Monument viewed across the Tidal Basin in Washington DC perfectly framed by cherry blossom branches in the foreground, the white and pink blossoms creating a natural border around the top and right of the frame against a bright blue sky with scattered white clouds, paddle boats visible on the water in the middle distance, and two birds in flight caught mid-frame above the monument
The Washington Monument viewed across the Tidal Basin in Washington DC perfectly framed by cherry blossom branches in the foreground, the white and pink blossoms creating a natural border around the top and right of the frame against a bright blue sky with scattered white clouds, paddle boats visible on the water in the middle distance, and two birds in flight caught mid-frame above the monument Cherry blossoms framing the Washington Monument on the Tidal Basin, Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

Our second day adopted a looser rhythm, which is strictly what a very good location makes doable. We headed towards the Capitol within the morning, seen straight down Pennsylvania Avenue from the lodge’s nook, one of many nice city walks in America in spring.

From there we moved by the Mall, took an Uber to the Jefferson Memorial, and walked the complete Tidal Basin loop again. Beginning on the Jefferson and dealing again is the route we might suggest to anybody. You start on the most dramatic view, stroll with the blossoms the entire method, and the lodge is on the different finish ready.

Lunch at La Grande Boucherie

The soaring interior of La Grande Boucherie DC restaurant photographed from the mezzanine level, showing the spectacular gilded coffered ceiling with intricate gold geometric patterns, a grand brass and glass chandelier, Art Nouveau stained glass panels in warm reds and oranges along the mezzanine balustrade, a central circular bar with dark wood surround, tropical potted plants throughout the main floor, and diners seated at bistro tables below
The soaring interior of La Grande Boucherie DC restaurant photographed from the mezzanine level, showing the spectacular gilded coffered ceiling with intricate gold geometric patterns, a grand brass and glass chandelier, Art Nouveau stained glass panels in warm reds and oranges along the mezzanine balustrade, a central circular bar with dark wood surround, tropical potted plants throughout the main floor, and diners seated at bistro tables below La Grande Boucherie DC inside, a 3 minute stroll from Lodge Washington | Picture: Higher Residing

For lunch we stepped into La Grande Boucherie, a French brasserie across the block from the lodge at 14th and G Avenue NW.

The area stopped us on the door. Artwork Nouveau styling, mahogany and glass, a hovering gilded ceiling, and a large curved bar with a metallic prime imported from France. It looks like a room from one other period, which is completely the proper vitality when you’re spending two days in a metropolis steeped in historical past since 1776.

We cherished {that a} restaurant this stunning is only a three-minute stroll from the lodge and transported us proper to Paris.

A classic Croque Monsieur served at La Grande Boucherie DC, presented on a round white plate with a gold rim, showing thick-cut brioche toast topped with a deeply golden broiled Gruyère crust sprinkled with chopped chives, with slices of jambon ham visible spilling from the sides of the sandwich, accompanied by a bright fresh petite salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrot, and red onion, with a vintage brass fork resting in the background against a dark wood surface
A classic Croque Monsieur served at La Grande Boucherie DC, presented on a round white plate with a gold rim, showing thick-cut brioche toast topped with a deeply golden broiled Gruyère crust sprinkled with chopped chives, with slices of jambon ham visible spilling from the sides of the sandwich, accompanied by a bright fresh petite salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, shredded carrot, and red onion, with a vintage brass fork resting in the background against a dark wood surface Le Croque Monsieur at La Grande Boucherie DC. Across the block from Lodge Washington and transported to Paris. | Picture: Higher Residing

We had the Soupe à l’Oignon, the Croque Monsieur on brioche with Gruyère, and a Steak Sandwich with hand-cut steak, caramelized onions, horseradish aioli, and pommes frites. A totally satisfying noon cease earlier than heading again out.

🥐 Close by Eating

La Grande Boucherie DC is at 699 14th Avenue NW, a three-minute stroll from Lodge Washington. No reservations wanted for weekday lunch. One of the crucial stunning eating rooms within the metropolis and a pure cease between blossom walks.

The Spa at Lodge Washington

The entrance to The Spa at Hotel Washington DC, showing the spa retail area through glass doors on the left with cherry blossom décor and skincare products on display, and a large dimensional sign reading THE SPA HOTEL WASHINGTON mounted on a warm brown wall to the right
The entrance to The Spa at Hotel Washington DC, showing the spa retail area through glass doors on the left with cherry blossom décor and skincare products on display, and a large dimensional sign reading THE SPA HOTEL WASHINGTON mounted on a warm brown wall to the right The Spa at Lodge Washington DC entrance | Picture: Higher Residing

At Lodge Washington, the spa is a classy and comfy retreat for face, physique, and wonder remedies once you want a bit pampering earlier than or after a day of sightseeing.

I booked the Pleasure of Magnificence Signature Facial on our first morning earlier than heading out to discover the cherry blossom scorching spots, and it turned out to be top-of-the-line selections of the journey.

Test-in was pleasant and easy. Snug spa flip flops, a locker, and a luxurious gown ready to alter into. The ladies’s lounge is trendy and genuinely trendy, the type of area the place you’re feeling your shoulders drop the second you compromise in.

Arriving early to spend time there earlier than the appointment, with fruited water and tea and no agenda, was its personal quiet pleasure.

The women's relaxation lounge at The Spa at Hotel Washington DC, featuring teal velvet curved armchairs with nail-head trim, a dark navy sofa with teal and floral pillows, a rustic wood and metal coffee table with a bowl of lemons, a white sculptural 3D floral accent wall with backlit shelving, an acrylic magazine display rack, and two dark metal cherry blossom silhouette artworks on the wall
The women's relaxation lounge at The Spa at Hotel Washington DC, featuring teal velvet curved armchairs with nail-head trim, a dark navy sofa with teal and floral pillows, a rustic wood and metal coffee table with a bowl of lemons, a white sculptural 3D floral accent wall with backlit shelving, an acrylic magazine display rack, and two dark metal cherry blossom silhouette artworks on the wall The ladies’s rest lounge at The Spa at Lodge Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

My esthetician Zoraya delivered the most effective facial I’ve had in a decade. After a protracted winter, pores and skin drained and boring and in real want of hydration, I used to be prepared for one thing that really labored. Facials listed below are bespoke, totally tailor-made to your particular person pores and skin quite than following a set protocol.

Zoraya analyzed rapidly, really helpful a microdermabrasion remedy adopted by a hydrating masks, and it was precisely the proper name. Utilizing Consolation Zone merchandise, made in Italy and formulated for seen outcomes, she left my pores and skin feeling and looking extra hydrated than it had in months. Zero irritation, zero downtime, and the facial included a hand, neck, and arm therapeutic massage that made the entire expertise really feel genuinely restorative.

Afterward, mint water and a chocolate-covered strawberry arrived within the lounge. That easy contact ended the go to completely. I left feeling like one million {dollars} and would e-book right here once more with out a second thought.

✨ Spa Ideas

Request Zoraya on your facial. She is a real pores and skin whisperer and the most effective I’ve encountered in years.

Arrive early and full the emailed consumption kind prematurely so you may focus completely on enjoyable. The lounge time earlier than your remedy is value constructing in.

Ask in regards to the Trager Methodology. Lodge Washington is the one property in DC with an authorized practitioner of this full-body stress launch remedy. Value reserving in case you have the time.

Is Lodge Washington Value It for Cherry Blossom Season?

The Washington Monument photographed from the National Mall grounds during cherry blossom season, flanked by two foreground pink flowering cherry trees, with visitors picnicking and walking on the green lawn below under a dramatic sky of white cumulus clouds against vivid blue, American flags visible at the monument base
The Washington Monument photographed from the National Mall grounds during cherry blossom season, flanked by two foreground pink flowering cherry trees, with visitors picnicking and walking on the green lawn below under a dramatic sky of white cumulus clouds against vivid blue, American flags visible at the monument base Washington Monument surrounded by cherry blossoms in spring, Washington DC | Picture: Higher Residing

Sure. DC throughout peak bloom rewards getting it proper. The blossoms look ahead to nobody, site visitors is a real impediment, and the distinction between staying in the proper place and the unsuitable one is the distinction between a aggravating sightseeing day and a visit you truly take pleasure in. Lodge Washington eliminates the friction completely. You arrive, you hand off the automotive, and also you begin strolling. That alone elevates the entire expertise.

What Stood Out Most

The suite was genuinely comfy and stuffed with inventive intention. The rooftop is among the many finest within the metropolis, full cease, and the eating throughout each VUE and Fireclay is value your time quite than simply your comfort. The spa delivered one of the vital memorable facials we now have had wherever. And the main points, Omar conserving the espresso scorching at breakfast, Zoraya realizing precisely what our pores and skin wanted, the valet having the automotive prepared earlier than we completed testing, are the place this lodge earns its Forbes ranking. None of it occurred by chance.

There are charges to know getting in, all detailed within the at-a-glance field above. None of it felt unreasonable at this stage, and the vacation spot price particularly returns real worth. Go in clear-eyed and checkout will really feel like the proper finish to an excellent journey.

If you wish to go to DC to see the cherry blossoms, this really is the place to do it. You might be proper within the coronary heart of all the things, the lodge makes a significant celebration of the season, and having a lovely room and an distinctive rooftop ready for you on the finish of a protracted day of strolling makes the entire journey really feel extra particular. That is the proper lodge for {couples} who wish to be in the course of the expertise quite than adjoining to it. When you’ve got been serious about a city weekend as a wellness reset, cherry blossom season in DC with a keep like that is precisely that. We’re already speaking about coming again. Most likely for a similar suite. Undoubtedly for VUE. And nearly definitely for another Energy to the Peaches at sundown.

The Backside Line

Lodge Washington is the proper place to expertise cherry blossom season in DC. Forbes Verified Luxurious, 5-star service, a historical past stretching again to 1917, and a location that places your entire metropolis inside strolling distance. The suite, the rooftop, the spa, and the workers all ship on the stage the ranking guarantees. Issue within the vacation spot price, valet, and included gratuity when budgeting. Go in ready and you’ll depart the way in which we did: already planning the subsequent go to.

Greatest for: {Couples}, romantic getaways, cherry blossom season, meals lovers, spa seekers

Value realizing: $42/evening vacation spot price, $80 valet, 20% gratuity on all eating, Fireclay desk seating restricted throughout off-peak hours

Ebook your keep: thehotelwashington.com  |  (202) 661-2400

Lodge Washington DC: Steadily Requested Questions

When is peak cherry blossom bloom in Washington DC?
Peak bloom usually falls between late March and early April, although precise timing varies by yr and climate. The Nationwide Park Service tracks blossom improvement in actual time at nps.gov and publishes forecasts because the season approaches. Peak bloom lasts roughly 4 to seven days, so timing issues. Ebook early and watch the forecast.

Do you want reservations for VUE Rooftop at Lodge Washington?
Sure, notably throughout cherry blossom season. VUE fills utterly throughout peak bloom. Ebook through OpenTable earlier than you arrive, ideally on the identical time you reserve your room. Ask for a window or terrace desk and plan to reach round 6 p.m. to catch each the cocktail hour and the sundown.

Is parking out there at Lodge Washington DC?
Sure. The lodge presents valet parking by LAZ Parking with out and in privileges, billed on to your room folio. The storage has a top restriction so verify prematurely if you’re driving an outsized automobile.

Is the spa at Lodge Washington open to non-guests?
Sure. The Spa at Lodge Washington welcomes each lodge company and locals. Reservations could be made on-line by the lodge web site. If you’re reserving a facial, request Zoraya particularly.

What else is there to do past cherry blossom season in Washington DC?
Rather a lot. From historical past, eating, museums there are lots of things to do in Washington DC. Additionally see our information to day trips from Washington DC which covers the most effective choices if you’re extending your keep or planning a go to outdoors of blossom season.

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