Why book?
For a sophisticated stay in the nation’s capital, look no further than The Dupont Circle. Guests are treated to traditional Irish hospitality, world-class dining, and buzz-worthy cocktails, all while being nestled near historic landmarks, museums, and must-see attractions.
Set the scene
The Dupont Circle is centrally located in Washington, DC, with close proximity to nearby tourist attractions while still offering that homey, neighborhood feel. Upon check-in, I was greeted by friendly and accommodating hotel staff who made sure I felt right at home with welcoming Irish hospitality at the forefront of The Dupont Circle’s service. I was given a rundown of the hotel’s offerings, including where to grab breakfast, an afternoon tea, and happy hour (Doyle Bar, of course).
The hotel lobby is elegantly designed and ridiculously upscale, with polished and meeting-ready guests constantly pouring in and out. There’s ample space for setting up shop to work, read a book by the fireplace, or meet a friend for coffee. I knew right away I was in for a treat—I couldn’t wait to get outside and explore all the can’t-miss hotspots and historic attractions around me, knowing I’d have a relaxing retreat to return to at the end of a full day.
The property is less than a two-minute stroll from the Dupont Circle Metro Station, providing quick access to everything from the Smithsonian Museum to the National Mall. Ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft also make it easy to head out to sightsee, sip, and shop around the city.
The backstory
The Dupont Circle originally opened in 1947 as The Dupont Plaza Hotel, and has been welcoming guests with open arms and full glasses ever since. Over the years, it underwent a multi-million dollar renovation in collaboration with Martin Brudnizki Design Studio and Clodagh New York which introduced original artwork and vibrant furnishings to the space. The Dupont Circle belongs to The Doyle Collection, known around the world for its home-away-from-home Irish hospitality and unrivaled, luxe stays. It’s easy to see why it’s been recognized with a Michelin Key and continues to attract guests from around the world, including celebrities, ambassadors, politicians, and more.
The rooms
All 327 rooms at The Dupont Circle make for a relaxing stay, with modern and airy design choices and warm, vibrant decor. For longer stays, consider one of the hotel’s 32 luxe suites, all equipped with ample space and city views. On the ninth-floor penthouse level, accessible via a private elevator, there are 12 residential-style suites, which are truly fit for an unbelievable, upscale experience.
I checked into one of these penthouse-level suites, which was a real treat after spending the day clocking 20,000 steps. The sizable suite offered everything I needed, including a workspace, a breakfast area, an in-room Nespresso coffee machine, a mini bar, two Smart TVs, and best of all, a heated outdoor balcony with sprawling views of the nation’s capital. What struck me the most about this suite was the plentiful natural light flooding in through the floor-to-ceiling windows that covered most of the room’s walls. I also appreciated the spa-like bathroom with marble tiles, heated floors, plush bathrobes, and Malin + Goetz bath products—it was just the place to get ready each morning. But the thing that really caught my eye was the bed. It’s not often I’m met with a hotel room bed that’s actually more comfortable than my one at home—but this one with 300-thread count imported crisp linens takes the cake. More available in-room amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, nightly turndown service, dry cleaning and laundry services, and room service.
Food and drink
Expect some of the best food you’ll have in DC served right here at the hotel itself, courtesy of The Pembroke, a Michelin-recommended restaurant serving up classic American cuisine with exciting global influence. It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and when the weather is right, the outdoor terrace overlooking the Dupont Circle Foundation is the place to dine. I was blown away by The Pembroke—seriously, it was the best meal I’ve had in some time. Fresh burrata, mouth-watering bone marrow, and grass-fed Australian wagyu left me mesmerized, but I still saved room for a few sweet bites of olive oil cake and Bailey’s flavored gelato.
For upscale craft cocktails inspired by the 1950s and 1960s, head to Doyle Bar, the swanky hotspot beloved by locals and hotel guests alike. Here, you’ll find fun twists on classic drinks with Irish influences that are sure to impress. The bar was buzzy and packed for happy hour, while the moody lounge area offered a chic place for friends to meet after work.
If you want to grab a quick breakfast, guests can pop by Doyle & Co Coffee Bar, located just off the lobby. Snag homemade pastries and lattes before heading out for the day. But if you’re like me and look forward to a room-service breakfast, simply fill out the provided menu card the night before (anytime before 3 a.m.) and leave it hanging on your door. In-room breakfast options range from fresh croissants and seasonal fruit to Nutella-topped French toast and fluffy omelets. I opted for the lemon ricotta pancakes that are served with lemon curd, stewed blueberries, and maple syrup. It was so delicious that I had to order it two days in a row.
The neighborhood/area
Nestled in Dupont Circle, a stylish diplomatic neighborhood, the hotel is centrally located, offering guests close proximity to popular nearby restaurants, local shops, and tourist attractions while still being slightly tucked away from the city's hustle and bustle. To get there, it’s about a 20-minute Uber or taxi ride from Washington Union Station and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. If sightseeing is on the to-do list, you’re in luck: The hotel is about an eight-minute drive from the White House; less than 15 minutes from the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington National Cathedral; and 20 minutes from the Library of Congress. And it’s a short drive from countless museums, too, including the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and the International Spy Museum.
Or travel on foot to historic Georgetown and grab lunch at Yellow, a trendy cafe from Chef Michael Rafidi that blends sweet French pastries with Middle Eastern flavors. If you plan on venturing out for dinner, you simply must pay a visit to L'Ardente, a lively Italian restaurant serving 40-layer lasagna and the most incredible duck ravioli.
The service
I was made to feel right at home by the concierge, hotel manager, bartenders, and everyone else I met at The Dupont Circle. The hotel staff made sure I knew my way around the property and was quick to give recommendations for where to go and what to do. The Doyle Collection prides itself on top-notch service, and the hotel certainly delivers an elevated yet comfortable experience.
For families
The hotel draws in a variety of travelers, from business people and politicians looking to stay close to the Convention Center and the US Capitol, to friend groups and families looking to explore all that DC has to offer. While I would recommend the hotel to anyone headed to DC, there isn’t anything about the elegant and upscale property that feels overly family-friendly.
Anything left to mention?
I can’t overstate how much The Dupont Circle excels with its dining and cocktail offerings. The Pembroke is a treasure in itself, serving up some of the most delicious meals you’ll have while in DC. End your evenings with a nightcap at the lively Doyle Bar, where classic cocktails are perfected.
1500 New Hampshire Ave. NW, Washington, DC, Washington, DC 20036
United States
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(202) 483-6000