The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection

The longest continuously operating hotel in Washington D.C., the Mayflower is nearly as well known for its history of hosting political mistresses as it is for its hosting inaugural balls. Those scandals aside, it's a landmark destination in the district, and is most popular among politicians and business travelers. Opened in 1925, the 10-story hotel sits just four blocks from the White House. Its grand lobby is ornately decorated with marble and gold-trimmed light fixtures, and covered by a large coffered skylight that only adds to the impressive overall effect. The second-floor mezzanine overlooks the lobby and offers relaxing places to escape from the hubbub below. Beyond the lobby is a block-long grand hall that's flanked by meeting rooms. Designed by the same firm that created Grand Central Station, the Mayflower can often feel like that famed transportation hub, especially when it's bustling with guests and attendees of the many special events that are regularly hosted by the hotel. 

Often referred to as, "the second-best address" in Washington, the Mayflower Hotel is in the heart of the city's political and business district. Located on Connecticut Avenue, directly between Dupont Circle and the White House (each of which is four blocks away), it's just a minute away from K Street and a 15-minute walk to the World Bank. For the culturally inclined, the Mayflower is also within walking distance from three of the city's top museums: National Geographic Museum (across the street), The Phillips Collection (15 minutes away on foot), and the Renwick Gallery (a 10-minute walk). The Farragut North Metro station is only one block away and the Farragut West Metro station is only two blocks away, putting four of the city's metro lines within striking distance. Amtrak's Union Station can be reached by metro in 15 to 20 minutes, while it's 20 to 25 minutes by metro to National Airport. Otherwise, expect a 45- to 90-minute drive to either BWI or Dulles. 

A renovation of all 581 rooms was completed in 2015, and in contrast to the historic Beaux Arts designs seen elsewhere in the hotel, guest rooms have decor that's more classic, but with a modern twist. The color scheme features cool grays and bright whites, with small pops of purple and green. It blends nicely with the dark wooden desks and dressers. Accent walls are wallpapered with signatures from famous guests who have stayed at The Mayflower, which include Amelia Earhart, Bob Hope, and John F. Kennedy. The bathrooms have marble and wood washstand-style vanities and subway tiling, making them particularly attractive. They include shower/tub combos, a decent amount of counter space, hairdryers, and toiletries. 

Standard amenities include 37-inch flat-screen TVs, laptop safes, air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, mini-fridges, irons and ironing boards, and robes. There are also lots of conveniently located electrical outlets. Makeup mirrors, microwaves, and nightly turndown services are available on request. There's a cost to access Wi-Fi in the rooms; however, it's free for guests who are members of the free Marriott Rewards program. Noticeably missing are coffeemakers, which is rather annoying given that delivery of a pot of coffee is wildly expensive. It is important to add a cautionary note regarding the Mayflower's Cozy Rooms. Although they only make up a small portion of the entry-level rooms, their lower price points make them appealing to many guests who often fail to notice before booking that they are only 250 square feet (23 square meters). That's very cozy by American standards, to say the least.

Absent a pool and spa services, the Mayflower features most of the amenities one would expect from an upscale property. Edgar Bar and Kitchen -- named for former FBI director J. Edgar Hoover (who dined at the hotel regularly) -- is a full-service restaurant serving elevated classic American dishes and highly praised craft cocktails. It also has a daily selection of grab-and-go items. A generous breakfast buffet is served daily, though it's quite pricey. Room service is only available during select hours (not late night or in the late afternoon).

The 24-hour fitness center is spacious, with a nice selection of modern equipment plus free headphones, bottled water, and fresh fruit. There's also a full-service business center, concierge desk, in-house florist, sundries shop, and Thomas Pink clothing store. Parking for guests is limited to valet only, and fees aren't small. The eighth-floor Club Lounge is available to Marriott Rewards Elite members and guests staying in Club Level guest rooms. Lounge visitors have access to free Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, snacks, and non-alcoholic drinks throughout the day, plus evening hors d’oeuvres and an honor bar featuring wine, beer, and spirits. The Mayflower's approximately 43,000 square feet of event space is a major feature. The ornate grand ballroom has held many inaugural balls from Calvin Coolidge's to Ronald Reagan's. Unfortunately, if you don't want to sign up for the free rewards program, Wi-Fi comes with a daily fee.