Reviews from guests who stayed at this hotel, shared by our hotel supplier. Score based on the latest 200 reviews.
Toufic
Lebanon · Solo · October 2026
“Recommendable”
+The politeness of the staff, the cleanliness of the room, the comfort of sheets and tub.
−Nothing
Johan
United Kingdom · Couple · October 2026
“very nice. Hotel staff were very attentive”
+We did not have any breakfast it was very expensive, we had room at the back with no view and we assumed from pictures we would have White House view but got back alley view
U883WEmichaelc
Family · July 2026
“Truly exceptional experience; a world-class hotel”
+I stayed with my family at the Hay-Adams for 3 nights and we found it a truly exceptional experience. First, every single staff member was polite and welcoming -- from the doormen to the concierges, front desk, and even the cleaning staff. There was nothing perfunctory about the service; it was delivered with real warmth. I was particularly impressed that every guest is greeted by a member of the concierge staff whenever they enter or leave the hotel. So there is always someone available with a helpful suggestion and to really make you feel at home. The rooms were spacious and perfectly clean. The selection of soap and shampoo was incredible. Room service was reasonably priced. The location is, obviously, iconic. The bar was clearly a happening place, with great decor. Keep an eye out for the unique collection of coasters -- an incentive to have a few drinks to collect a complete set. I have to say we were a bit disappointed with the breakfast in the dining room. That particular room could use some updating, and breakfast wasn't anything to rave about. The portions were a bit small. But that should in no way take anything away from this hotel. I travel extensively, and don't recall
298katyam
Family · July 2026
“Avoid”
+Still wondering what is 5-star about this outdated, tiny-rooms, no view place.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 movem
alessandrarX5289WK
Business trip · July 2026
“Great hotel and location”
+Best location in DC and a classic
Stellatravels
Family · July 2026
“This one is the best. Heads above the rest!”
+Our recent stay at The Hay-Adams was, without question, one of the finest hotel experiences our family has ever had. Having stayed at many luxury hotels over the years - as an employee and as a guest - I don't make that statement lightly. This was a return visit for me, but a first for my husband and two boys (ages 11 and 13). They were mostly excited to see the hotel that they knew of from the Netflix hit, “The Residence.” From the moment we arrived until the moment we reluctantly departed, every interaction reflected a level of hospitality that is (unfortunately) increasingly rare. The service was warm, genuine, and effortless. Every member of the staff made us feel incredibly special - like we were their most important guest. It reminded me of luxury service levels from 20+ years ago when standards were higher. Our beautiful room overlooking the White House was simply breathtaking. Seeing the view of the Washington Monument and the White House at dusk was a highlight of our family's trip to Washington, D.C., and one we will never forget. One moment that especially stood out was the hotel's complimentary car service, which graciously drove us to Arlington National Cemetery early
WillTell1307
Business trip · July 2026
“Beep..beep…beep…beep…beep”
+If you enjoy the sound of a car alarm blasting incessantly for hours on end, a room overlooking Lafayette Park at the Hay Adams is the place for you. Shortly after I checked into my room, an incessant car sounding alarm blasted repeatedly from outside. Nearly two hours later, I finally called down to inquire as to the situation. The front desk woman told me that it was from an alarm that goes off on a locked restroom in Lafayette Park, but that it usually goes off by 7 pm (another hour) and that I could use a white noise machine to help dampen the sound. Clearly this was a routine complaint, and I was surprised and disappointed that they did not warn me. Once I was away from the beeping my headache receded and I could think clearly again. Upon my return to the hotel I requested a room change. While the beeping stoped, I was concerned that it would start again overnight. The front desk woman was clearly irritated by my request, and showed me to a dark, minuscule interior room measuring about 150 square feet. It had a dreadful smell and I doubt that it had been occupied in weeks. Much to her further annoyance, I declined that room, since the Hay Adams is a large property. Begrudingly
Melissa
United States · Solo · July 2026
+They anticipated my needs. As an example, there is no ice bucket in the room at check in but I brought drinks for later in the night. When I arrived back at the room in the evening, a bucket of ice was waiting for me even though I hadn't asked for one.
−They got rid of their delicious chocolate cheese cake! I was broken hearted because it was fantastic. I also wish Off the Record had colder AC.
Tom352VD
Business trip · June 2026
“Best in town!”
+This hotel is such a gem! I love their historical style and charming environment, it is very elegant and truly authentic. The rooms are so well kept! Its central location is probably very convenient also for tourists who are visiting, for us it's the best place in DC for a corporate stopover. A big thanks to Atsuko and also to the reception team for their wonderful hospitality. The avocado toast for breakfast at the restaurant Lafayette and the cheese platter for dinner at Off the Record have been my culinary highlights here. It's my 4th time at this place and I love returning once a year.
Wolin
United States · Solo · June 2026
“terrible”
+I paid for a king room. asked for handicapped room - given a double, not handicapped. staff told me it was the smallest room in entire hotel. I requested a larger room - concierge didnt care. spent time fawning over a would be UK socialite who came to hotel day after me. this is the absolute worst hotel I have been in anywhere in the world!! They need to fair both concierge employees