I went to The Hay Adams for their unique "Be Gin the Evening" event, which opens the normally private Top of the Hay to the public for a limited number of dates and times. If you have the opportunity to catch one of these evenings, it is absolutely worth the effort. I arrived early and stopped at Off the Record for a drink before heading upstairs. The bartender mentioned that this event also helps provide additional hours for staff during the slower month of August, which made me appreciate the concept even more. The Top of the Hay itself is stunning. The views and setting are exactly what you would expect from such an iconic DC property, and getting to experience a space that is typically reserved for private events made the evening feel particularly special. The drinks were also excellent. Sweet, but not overly sweet. But what really stood out was the staff. I do not say this lightly. The service was outstanding. I genuinely wish I had caught everyone's names because anyone working between roughly 4:30 and 7:30 that evening in the lobby, Off the Record, or Top of the Hay deserves recognition and a raise! Every person I interacted with was incredibly attentive without ever being overbearing. What impressed me most was that the staff remembered my schedule for the evening and made sure I left Off the Record at exactly the right time so I could be the first person to step into Top of the Hay when it opened. That level of attention to detail is rare. Beautiful space, great drinks, and truly exceptional hospitality. "Be Gin the Evening" is such a clever way to let locals and visitors experience a part of The Hay Adams they otherwise might never see. I would absolutely do it again. read more

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Still wondering what is 5-star about this outdated, tiny-rooms, no view place. Our stay at The Hay-Adams was deeply disappointing and fell far short of basic expectations, let alone what you would expect from a property claiming five-star luxury. For the rates they charge, the conditions and service are unacceptable. The building is old, heavily dated, and features cheap fixings. The bathroom is tiny, featuring a cramped round sink with virtually zero counter space to set down any personal items. Furthermore, for a five-star hotel, lacking a proper hot tub and standalone shower is unacceptable. The towels provided are cheap, rough, and feel entirely out of place at this price point. The bathroom ventilation is so old and loud, that I can't even believe it's there. No fridge in the room, only a mini bar that will charge you if you move around mini bar items to place your own drinks. The view of the White House was severely misadvertised. To actually see it, you are required to pay an extra $700 on top of an already steep $600-per-night room rate. The acoustic insulation is non-existent. If anyone is staying in the room above you, forget about sleeping--every single footstep and movement carries straight through. The front desk staff was entirely dismissive. After promising to switch our room to resolve our issues, they dragged us through three separate attempts, wasted hours of our time with non-responsive answers, and then finally demanded we pay even more money to fix their mistake. After we went through, not even a complimentary breakfast or really anything. Shocked that this place is more expensive than Four Seasons, St. Regents, and the kind. This is barely a three star hotel (except location of course). Stay away. read more

This review is for the 'Top of the Hay at Hay-Adam's' which is a terrace located on the ninth floor. I attended a dinner at the Terrace which had great views of the White House and the surrounding Neighborhood. The food was great and the service was good although I had a hard time getting an Uber back out of that location. read more

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Delicious food, incredible views. Stunning architecture. Clean. Comfortable. The beds are like clouds. Just Exquisite. read more

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If you have never visited the Hay Adams in Washington DC, you are simply letting the best in life pass you bye. Many of the World's movers and shakers have stayed at this historical hotel. There is good reason for that, the Hay Adams is the pinnacle of what a great hotel should strive to become, they have an amazing attention to detail that far exceeds your expectations. They really know how to pamper their grateful guests. I was asked for my name upon arrival and I was greeted by name when I was seated as well as upon my departure. This may seem like a small thing but it meant the world to me, well done! Thank you for making my stay special, I'm already looking forward to my next visit. read more

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This hotel has rooms with amazing views of the White House and St John's Church though you have to specify that you want to see the WH or you'll be facing the church. Rooms facing the WH are pretty pricey $850 minimum. The building is luxe in general. Off the Record Bar has great decor but the staff are unfriendly and rude. Honestly feels like a tourist trap these days. The bellMan broke my expensive rolling bag and didn't tell anyone. Put the broken pieces of the handle inside the bag and left me to discover it when I was leaving the hotel. I told the front desk and they said they'd have to look at the video camera footage to see what happened. I had a business meeting and was going to walk with my roller bag but had to carry it by hand as IT WAS BROKEN by their staff. I guess they didn't believe me that their guy broke it ergo the video replay. Later offered me $100 credit but the bag has to be replaced for $500. Said they couldn't help me with the whole amount. When the bellman put our bags in our room the first day of our stay my gf noticed a black evening bag with our bags....it wasn't ours; the bag had a passport, money, etc in it.. We called the front desk to tell them and they were totally unimpressed and acted like it was no big deal...said oh, ok we will send someone up for it. The overall attitude of management seems to be they can't be bothered with "the small stuff" I won't be staying there or going to the bar again. Not worth the $$$$ read more

Have been here for events and also went for dinner. First stop was the bar, so much fun and a great place to people watch. The restaurant is impressive and the food is delicious. The staff is always superb and always friendly! I would recommend this place again and again. read more

We had a Greg casual dinner at Off The Record bar. It was a lively, fun place to hang out. Food and service were great. Looking forward to going back again. read more

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Top-notch service and timeless style. Our family of four had a wonderful stay. I'll admit, I was a bit skeptical after reading some of the reviews, but I can say firsthand that our experience was nothing short of spectacular. We stayed in a beautiful suite with a fantastic view and plenty of thoughtful amenities. The hotel's location--right across from the White House--could not be more ideal. Service throughout was exceptional, from check-in to housekeeping. We also enjoyed breakfast at the restaurant, where both the food and service were excellent. The combination of classic styling, phenomenal service, and unbeatable location make this a perfect choice when visiting our nation's capital. Yes, it's expensive--but absolutely worth it. We would certainly stay here again. read more

The Hay Adams is my favorite hotel in the world, hands down. Everything is managed to perfection and the staff are absolutely perfect. The bar, Off The Record, has a great vibe and I love the politically themed coasters. If you ever get the chance, stay here. read more

Old school high end with prices to match. Great service. Amazing location near the White House. Great place to have a small sized business conference. read more

My wife & I were there May 1. Our experience could not have been better, from check in to check out. We especially appreciated the Saturday morning attention we received from the concierge, Brian. He had the answers to all of our questions and was a wealth of knowledge about the Hotel and the neighborhood. Thank you Brian! read more

Beautiful hotel right by the White House. Got to redeem Amex FHR benefits and used our $100 food credit on room service and $60 breakfast credit during brunch. The decor reminds gives me beautiful old Victorian vibes. Service was generally really good but found some people at the front desk to be kinder than others. Sadly the restaurant was closed on Sunday night so we had to order room service. Got the steak frites, salmon and risotto, and octopus. Everything was as expected but the risotto was a bit undercooked and didn't have as much flavor as I thought it would. Octopus can easily be overcooked but luckily it was perfect. Dinner came with a nice side of bread and butter as well as bottled fresh spring water. During breakfast we had the benedict royale and marscarpone pancakes. Savory was good but the pancakes were a tad too sweet for us. read more

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This is a solid old hotel with an AWESOME location. The vibe is definitely old school and that is generally good. The walls are not super thick and there are a lot of odd spaces. The bathrooms have enough room but not a ton. If you want to be in the center of DC, this is an excellent spot and compares favorably to lots of older properties around the world read more

If you are coming to DC, there is no place to stay like the Hay Adams. If you book the right room, you will have a beautiful view of the White House. It is the crème de la crème of a visit to DC. All of the staff is operating at 110% feel at home and no one thing goes unchecked. Don't waste your money sleeping anywhere else come and enjoy history at its best in the most beautiful city on earth. read more

Very plush and comfortable place to stay. The staff are ultra-professional and accommodating. Even people who weren't around when I checked in seemed to know my name, which on the one hand could be a touch unsettling, but overall makes it seems like they place priority on their customers. The lobby is absolutely gorgeous with its wood columns, arches, and embellished white ceiling lit by gold bulbs in the chandeliers with copious fresh flowers. The Lafayette Room is just up a short flight of stairs off the lobby and served a very nice brunch. The branzino was perfectly prepared and the service was polished. Off the Record is a classic hotel bar down a set of stairs off the back of the lobby (see separate review). I decided to go for a little more space and got the executive studio, which gives you a sitting area with a sofa and coffee table, along with a separate closet nook with a desk. The bathroom was quite large, with very upscale toiletries, a separate tub and shower, and a commode with multiple controls for temperature and spritzing various parts of your undercarriage. I was on the second floor overlooking the enclosed courtyard, so not much in the way of view, but it was blissfully quiet. Bed was very comfortable and the decor was classic upscale and very soothing. It oozes class and grace. If you're using public transportation, the Farragut West and the Lafayette Square Metro stops are both close by. Farragut West is just a little closer. read more

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An immaculate historic luxury hotel, operating since the year 1928. The Hay-Adams is a shining example of what a 5 star hotel should be, which is no surprise considering their affiliation with Leading Hotels Of The World. Their location is ideal, offering panoramic views of the White House, and walkability to many significant DC sights, restaurants, and museums. I stayed in an Executive Studio room ($700/night), which was wonderfully quiet, and visually stunning. I loved the gold and cream color palate, juxtaposed with black and white photos and modern amenities. This room features separate desk and seating areas, a spacious bathroom, and a beautiful canopy bed. The mattress and bedding were cloud-like. From the moment I arrived, I felt warmly welcomed and appreciated. All of the staff I encountered were genuinely lovely; polished professionals who were seemingly always one step ahead of anything I needed. I ordered room service one morning: a stack of buttermilk pancakes with blueberries and an oat milk cappuccino. The pancakes were delicious, and the espresso perfectly pulled. I highly recommend The Hay-Adams for a memorable stay in Washington D.C. read more

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Well appointed rooms, excellent service, and comfortable bedding are our three requirements and all were met. Great location.

We came your specifically for off the record, which was highly recommended by a friend. Such a cool speakeasy vibe. Decor is great, the food was tasty and well presentation clean cute decor inside. Nice bathrooms. read more

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Amazing service. The staff goes above and beyond to make your stay perfect. I highly recommend staying at the Hay Adams. Worth it. If you are not familiar with D C., Hay Adams will make sure that you see any site you desire and will help you get there; either by direct verbal directions and assistance with transportation. read more

Worst experience, started from the moment I entered the door. the door man gave me a Stare up and down. Coming from Los Angeles never has happened before. felt super in welcomed and waited a couple minutes to be attended to at the bar. On my way out the door man again just looks at me and does not make it feel welcoming. i opened my own door after he seen me coming. wanted to stay a few nights but I guess I just picked bad timing. read more

Top notch hotel. Outstanding breakfast experience. Unbelievable view from the top floor. And clubby elegance. read more

The Hay-Adams - View from the ninth floor conference space showing the White House, Washington mt, Jefferson mt, Maryland, Virginia, and the Potomac. - Hotels Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This is one of many fabulous hotels in the Capital district. What makes it extra special are the views out your window due to its excellent location. Walked into our beautifully furnished room with a view of the White House & Washington Monument. Perfect! Love the Off the Record bar downstairs. read more

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We were in town last November before Thanksgiving, and had a great stay at The Hay-Adams from start to finish. Bell staff were friendly and efficient, front desk was courteous and accommodating, and housekeeping did a great job every morning and at turndown. We'd booked a Lafayette Park-View Room, and were upgraded to a Lafayette Park-View Suite thanks to the Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts program. The room was beautiful, and the view was quite good as well. Not too much street noise in spite of the location, although particularly sensitive sleepers might want to pack a white noise machine. One other minor complaint is that the thermostat seems very bright in the dark room (we addressed this through creative stacking of luggage to block the light). Mattress and bedding were A+. Some creaky floors (though we never heard any noise from above), and the bathroom was maybe a touch cramped, but both are to be expected in a historical building of this age. We didn't get a chance to try any of the hotel's restaurants or bars; hopefully we can remedy that next time we're in town. But really, you stay here for the location (which can't be beat), and the quality of accommodations (top-notch). I think we've found our new "home base" when we're visiting the city. read more

The Hay-Adams - Lafayette Park View Suite - Hotels Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

This is a beautiful hotel; not over the top. It is elegant and very well appointed. My husband and I stayed here for 5 days while we toured DC. The location was perfect as it is directly across from Lafayette Park and the White House. We were greeted at the entrance and directed to registration. There was a beautiful huge arrangement of white roses and lilies by the elevator. Shaun took us to our room on the second floor. We were told we overlooked the "courtyard." The courtyard is a roof between the hotel and the building next door that has been decorated with rocks, benches, and fake plants - a very clever way to disguise an ugly rooftop. The room was a comfortable size in an L shape with a queen bed, sofa, and chair. The smaller section had the closet and writing desk. The bathroom had one sink, a tub, & shower. But the highlight was the Toto Washlet toilet with a heated seat! We were also told at registration that we had a $50 credit for breakfast at the Lafayette restaurant in the hotel (we heard it as $50 ea, but it turned out to be $25 each). Overall, the staff were very helpful, kept fresh cookies all day the reception desk, and the concierge was alway there, knowledgeable, and helpful. There were hiccups though. It is an old hotel, so at night we heard the floor above us creaking. The daytime housekeeping staff did ok, they cared for the basics - towels, bed, trash, etc. but the turndown staff was very inconsistent. On our first night my husband opened the door for the housekeeper and she was reluctant to come in the room until I went to the door. Even then she was reluctant to enter, but she came in and only left ice and then hurried out. One night no dirty towels were taken, no trash emptied, and only water was left. Only one night did we receive a full turndown and that was after we called to request it. We also noticed the lamps and sconces were dusty and had cobwebs. The other inconsistency was at the Lafayette restaurant. We ate all of our breakfasts there. This is an exquisite room that is just lovely to sit in. Most days there were government officials or journalists dining there. The first couple of days the staff was very attentive, remembering us and what our preferences were. However, there were days when we were completely ignored until we waved someone over to take our orders. Additional notes, review your bill as we were charged for the mini bar/drawer that we never used. When questioned, we were told the drawer was "finicky" and the charge removed. Because of the proximity to Lafayette Park where protesters gather, the hotel ended up in the middle of the Gaza war anniversary protest where protesters spilled out of the park and in front of the hotel. The police closed off the street and we had to catch our Lyft (and later be dropped off) several blocks away. All in all, I was happy with our stay and would likely stay again. Looking at reviews for other high end hotels I don't think we would fare any better. read more

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Museum visit (renwick gallery short walk) then a delightful lunch in the Lafayette room. Made a reservation for 2 (tip#1 reservations!!) the day before and it was ez by phone. The service was first rate (thanks Emanuel) and most professional and fun ... Jackie the hostess was A+ and gave us a quiet table with defused sunlight in the corner . A wonderful way to rest, feed, and review the exhibits just viewed. Expensive ... a bit, so do lunch and don't drink too much ... but absolutely have dessert ! We split one & it was 'killer-diller'. So food was really good (even mushroom soup was superior!), the service is the best, and the environment is quite fancy. There is even a chance you'll see a famous type. (Tip#2, great cherry trees just outside. ... go late March/early April and check em out in bloom) Worth the calories and $ read more

The Hay-Adams - Nutrition advice - Hotels Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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What a location! In sight of the White House!! We came to support the local businesses and have some good food. Of this, we were not disappointed. The hat Adam's hotel is a fantastic destination unto itself. The staff was top-notch, the rooms, steeped in history and the Top of the Hay restaurant really good. Since their regular diggs are closed because of covid, this, their event space is now their restuarant's temporary home. They, frankly were a little out of sync but the food was still awesome. The view was killer! (See picture #2) This place is a Washington tradition! Right across from St. James's Church (where all the fun was...) and down the new 'Black Lives Matter' Blvd., worthy look at history in the making! read more

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Great hotel. Probably the best run hotel I have stayed in and I've still a lot all over the world. Housekeeping replaced all used products. Concierge was excellent. Gar and eating are great. So happy!! read more

The hotel has an incomparable location. You can't get any closer to the White House. The concierge and reception staff, along with the valet and bellmen, are top notch; the service is seamless and impeccable. We would give the hotel a well-deserved five stars, but the waiters in the restaurant were forgetful and dismissive of us at both meals (while being attentive and kind to other tables), and the bed was a bit hard. Otherwise, it was quite a lovely stay and we enjoyed our experience. read more

The Hay-Adams - Outside - Hotels Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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The Hay-Adams is an absolutely breathtaking location for a wedding. The reception area is on the 9th floor and overlooks the entire city as well as The White House. There is a balcony that lines the perimeter of the venue if you want to step outside and take photos. Although the wedding was on a frigid cold night, the balcony views were worth braving the cold. Although the views are incredible, it's really the exquisite interior that makes the Hay-Adams such a special place for an event. Everything about the hotel is regal and elegant. It's just the type of place that oozes class. As expected, the service and the food matched the vibe and was top notch. The entree of filet and crab cake was perfectly presented and tasted even better than it looked. All wine and top shelf cocktails were also delicious. It's hard to put The Hay-Adams into words - I've been to my fair share of weddings and can easily say that this is one of the most beautiful wedding venues that I've ever had the pleasure of experiencing! read more

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As part of my AMEX perks I got free breakfast for two daily. Received my order quickly and the server was very nice and courteous...food was delicious also. What a wonderful way to start the day...my room is a double bed with a view of St. John's church from my window. Staff overall are very nice and accommodating... read more

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The staff go overboard with exceptional service. I'm bowled over! Claudia gave me early check in. Bellmen and doorman are great with help, advice, water. So kind and upbeat. the cleaners are terrific kind and thorough. They stored my bags, let me change. Such nice service. The room was meh. No full length mirror. Noisy, drippy faucet, but for an active Dc experience requiring attentive help, this is THE place! read more

Stayed here for several days. Came to DC for a family event. Great location and excellent staff. Very welcoming Breakfast daily and it was great. Good food and the staff attentive. The greeter always asked if I'd like to reserve for the next morning's breakfast. Yes, thank you! Great bar too. Very crowded as it is popular. read more

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION... As soon as we arrived at the 5-Star Hay Adams Hotel from our long flight, we were greeted by professional and friendly staff. It's a discrete luxury hotel in Washington DC, right next to the White House, St. John's Church, and the scenic Lafayette Park! Right in the heart of DC. The rooms are on the small side, but are VERY clean, nicely decorated and comfortable beds. The staff go out of their way to please guests. You must visit their popular bar "Off the Record" located in the downstairs area of the hotel. In keeping with the hotel's culture, the service, food and atmosphere in the bar were A+. We are enjoying our stay and this place is Number One! I highly recommend. read more

Amazing hotel with immaculate attention to details. Accommodating every request, all team members were always willing to help. Cannot recommend this hotel enough! They were so kind with our kids, assisted with transportation, reservations and even helped us move rooms mid stay without any hassle. read more

Almost a 5-star review ... the Hay Adams is one of the most luxurious hotels in DC for sure. However, you have to enjoy history and 'vintage' in order to enjoy it. I've stayed twice in the last year ... once in a suite and once in a standard room. To say the standard room was small would be kind ... the suite was luxurious with a lot of space. If you like to spread out in a hotel room and need a proper bathroom ... you may want to think twice about staying here. If you want a staff who really goes out of the way and a classy clientele, you won't find more well heeled folks than who stay here. It's proximity to the White House is overrated. The photo shopped photos on the website make it look right next door but it is actually across the street and on the other side of a fairly large park. The rooms in the front have fantastic straight on views of the White House, the views to the side and rear of the hotel face construction sites and dirty corridors. Not judging ... just making you aware. The rooms have a federal style design ... be prepared for a lot of gold and brown. There are silk draperies on the windows and surrounding the headboard. An old vintage style pendant light hangs over the bed. The flat screen television is large (55 inches?) and looks comically large on the desk in the tiny standard room. The bathroom has a step-in standard bathtub and a curtain with a curved rod. The tiny single sink has very little storage space and it will be hard for a woman with lots of products to spread out. The bathroom also has a cracked frosted glass door so privacy from a sound standpoint is not there. The suite on the other hand features a large marble stand alone shower, a bathtub and a large marble sink with lots of space to spread out. There is also a toilet with a Toto bidet in the suites ... I liked it so much I bought one for my home toilet at considerable expense after using it. The bath products are Etro, an Italian luxury brand. They tend to be a bit masculine but they give you giant soaps and shampoo, lotion, etc. bottles. (Took some home) The bed is absolutely one of the most uncomfortable beds I've ever slept on. When I stayed this summer and complained about it, they told me they are updating their mattresses. If so, they are taking their time because in April it felt like sleeping on a box spring ... so hard and there was a dip in the center, just as had been before. The pillows were feather but very limp and I woke up with a headache. The comforter and sheets were luxurious. Beyond the rooms, the lobby is wood paneled and feels like old money. The crowd at the hotel is clearly a business crowd. Anyone there with their family is likely a member of Leading Hotels or wants a luxury experience even with young kids. The staff is on the young side ... I was surprised that the front desk agents, though incredibly friendly, were unable to make judgment calls without checking with a manager in the back. Was expecting some more seasoned vets behind the desk on the front line. Concierge was super and crossed keys, of course. The bellman who brought our bags to the room was a bit on the rude side but in his defense, it was incredibly busy being Cherry Blossom season. Overall ... I would probably stay here out of any other hotel in DC IF a suite was available ... this is a classy hotel with great service. I would tend to avoid in the future if only a standard room is available because they are just too small and the bathroom is so tiny and dated. So, if a standard room is my only choice ... I'd choose St. Regis. There were some hiccups during my stay ... but then again, a little welcome amenity left in the room, Fiji water in the gym and a heck of a fun hotel bar make it worth coming back to the Hay Adams. (One small note ... the front desk has incredible cookies and fruit infused water normally. During my last stay, there were no cookies or water. We missed our cookies!) read more

I have stayed at hotels in Europe, throughout the USA, Mexico and the Hay-Adams was the absolute BEST (Rm. 608). The entire staff, management (Paul), concierge (Franziska/ Brian), room reservations (Dan), front desk (Lotte, Karen & Patrick) & switchboard(Eli) - I dealt with all and all were 100% pleasant and professional. Additionally the location can't be beat, the views can't be beat and the restaurants were tops! read more

Classy and cultured hotel in a perfect location. Elegant, lovely rooms. Well appointed. What more can you ask for?

We tried to check in on time(3pm) only to be told our room wasn't ready. We even booked the spot for early check in through our credit card(supposed to be at 12pm), but the room still wasn't ready by 3:15pm. I am posting this review now since we are trying to get a refund through our credit card, so that we may try to find a better location at which to spend our money. Breakfast policy for the credit card benefit is 30 dollars for 2(even though we booked a room for 3), valet is not included in this or the food and beverage credit. No upgrade even mentioned not available. Other hotels in the area(which we stayed in just the night prior) had much better accommodations. Place was tacky and old fashioned. If you are a fine-hotels -booking-maker do not come to this place. Edit/PS: also felt treated differently because of who we are. Don't want to use the R Word but we felt like it. read more

My husband and I considered The St Regis, and The Four Seasons Hotel's before booking The Hay-Adams. We booked because of it's proximity to the White House. We are not fan's of the President, but are big fan's of most thing's DC. We arrived in time for the media circus surrounding the Supreme court hearing's. Despite the rush we were able to check in relatively easily. Hay-Adams is a beautiful hotel that is ideally located, and very well run. Our room is beautiful, and has spectacular view's of DC. read more

The Hay-Adams - Hotels Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

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