The Watergate Hotel: A Historic and Luxurious Destination

The Watergate Hotel is not just any hotel, it is a historic landmark that has played a significant role in American political history. Located in the heart of Washington D.C., the hotel offers luxury accommodations and world-class amenities that attract visitors from all over the world.In this blog post, we will explore the history of the Watergate Hotel, its iconic architecture, and the luxurious amenities that make it a top destination for travelers. We will also share some insider tips on how to make the most of your stay at this iconic hotel.

The History Of The Watergate Hotel

The Scandal That Changed America

The Watergate Hotel is not only known for its luxurious accommodations and high-end amenities but also for the infamous scandal that rocked the United States in the 1970s. The scandal, which is now referred to as the Watergate Scandal, was a political scandal that involved the then-president Richard Nixon and his administration.

The scandal began in 1972 when five men were caught breaking into the Democratic National Committee’s headquarters at the Watergate complex. It was later discovered that the break-in was part of a larger conspiracy to spy on the Democratic Party during the presidential campaign. The investigation into the break-in led to the discovery of a series of illegal activities carried out by the Nixon administration, including wiretapping and other forms of surveillance on political opponents.

The scandal resulted in the resignation of President Nixon in 1974, making him the first and only president in U.S. history to resign from office. The Watergate Scandal had far-reaching consequences and changed the way Americans viewed their government and the media.

The Watergate Hotel played a central role in the scandal, serving as the site of several key events, including the break-in and the subsequent cover-up. Today, the hotel has been completely renovated and restored to its former glory, but its history remains an important part of American political history.

The Renovation And Reopening Of The Hotel

The Watergate Hotel, located in Washington D.C., has a rich history that dates back to its opening in 1967. However, after the infamous scandal that took place in 1972, the hotel’s reputation was tarnished and it eventually closed its doors in 2007. In 2016, after an extensive renovation project, the Watergate Hotel reopened to the public.

The renovation of the Watergate Hotel was a massive undertaking and cost over $125 million. The goal of the project was to restore the hotel to its former glory while also updating it with modern amenities. To achieve this, the hotel’s interior was completely gutted and redesigned. The new design pays homage to the hotel’s mid-century roots, with a sleek and modern twist.

One of the most impressive features of the renovated Watergate Hotel is the Next Whisky Bar. This bar boasts one of the largest selections of whisky in the world, with over 2,500 bottles on display. The bar also features a unique cocktail menu that incorporates rare and vintage spirits.

In addition to the Next Whisky Bar, the Watergate Hotel also offers guests a rooftop lounge, a luxurious spa, and a fitness center. The hotel’s guest rooms are spacious and feature floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the Potomac River and the city skyline.

The reopening of the Watergate Hotel was met with much excitement and fanfare. It has quickly become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The hotel’s rich history combined with its modern amenities make it a truly unique and special place to stay.

The Architecture And Design Of The Watergate Hotel

Mid-Century Modern Style

The Watergate Hotel is a prime example of Mid-Century Modern Style architecture and design. This style was popularized in the 1950s and 1960s, characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and minimal ornamentation. The Watergate Hotel’s sleek exterior features sharp angles and a minimalist color palette, with its iconic curvilinear roofline drawing inspiration from the nearby Potomac River.

Inside the hotel, guests are greeted with a spacious lobby decorated in the same Mid-Century Modern Style. The furniture is sleek and functional, with simple lines and organic shapes. The use of natural materials such as wood and stone adds warmth to the space, while large windows provide ample natural light.

The guest rooms at the Watergate Hotel also embody the Mid-Century Modern Style. The decor is simple yet elegant, with a focus on functionality and comfort. Guests can enjoy modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs and high-speed internet while surrounded by classic mid-century furnishings.

Mid-Century Modern Style Features	The Watergate Hotel Examples
Clean lines and geometric shapes	The hotel’s exterior and interior design
Minimal ornamentation	The simple yet elegant decor of the guest rooms
Natural materials such as wood and stone	The lobby’s use of natural materials for warmth
Focus on functionality and comfort	The guest rooms’ modern amenities and classic furnishings

The Watergate Hotel’s Mid-Century Modern Style has been praised by design experts and guests alike. The hotel’s attention to detail and commitment to preserving its historic architecture have earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

For more information on Mid-Century Modern Style, visit Architectural Digest.

Artwork And Decor

The Watergate Hotel is renowned for its unique architecture and design, which includes a mix of modern and classic styles. But it’s not just the building itself that’s impressive – the artwork and decor inside the hotel are equally stunning.

From the moment guests enter the lobby, they are greeted with an impressive display of contemporary art. The hotel’s collection includes works by both established and up-and-coming artists, including Jeff Koons, Frank Stella, and Mickalene Thomas. These pieces are carefully curated and placed throughout the hotel, creating a cohesive and visually striking environment.

In addition to the artwork, the Watergate Hotel’s decor is equally impressive. The interior design team worked tirelessly to create a space that was both luxurious and comfortable, using high-quality materials and finishes throughout. From the plush furnishings in the guest rooms to the custom lighting fixtures in the public spaces, every detail has been carefully considered.

Item	Description	Example
Furniture	The hotel features custom-made furniture designed specifically for the space, including sofas, chairs, and tables.	The lobby features a stunning sofa designed by Roche Bobois.
Lighting	The lighting fixtures throughout the hotel are custom-made and add to the overall ambiance.	The chandeliers in the ballroom were designed by Lindsey Adelman.
Rugs and Carpets	The hotel’s carpets and rugs were custom-designed to complement the overall aesthetic of the space.	The guest rooms feature plush, high-quality carpeting from Stark Carpet.

The Rooftop Lounge

The rooftop lounge at the Watergate Hotel is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to enjoy a stunning view of Washington D.C. while sipping on delicious cocktails. The lounge is located on the 15th floor of the hotel and offers panoramic views of the Potomac River, Georgetown, and the Kennedy Center.

The design of the rooftop lounge is modern and sophisticated, with sleek furniture and a color scheme that complements the surrounding cityscape. The lounge features a large indoor bar area as well as an expansive outdoor terrace where guests can relax and take in the breathtaking views.

One of the standout features of the rooftop lounge is the heated infinity pool, which allows guests to swim while enjoying the stunning views of the city. The pool is open year-round and is a popular spot for both hotel guests and locals.

The rooftop lounge also offers a menu of small bites and shareable plates, including fresh seafood and artisanal cheeses. The cocktail menu features both classic and innovative drinks, all made with high-quality ingredients.

If you’re looking for a memorable night out in D.C., be sure to visit the rooftop lounge at the Watergate Hotel. With its stunning views, sophisticated design, and delicious food and drinks, it’s the perfect spot for a special occasion or a night on the town.

Luxury Accommodations And Amenities

Guest Rooms And Suites

The Watergate Hotel offers luxurious accommodations and amenities to its guests, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a high-end experience. The hotel boasts 336 guest rooms and suites, each designed with modern sophistication and elegance in mind.

The guest rooms at The Watergate Hotel range from standard king and queen rooms to premium suites that offer breathtaking views of the Potomac River and the Washington Monument. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, featuring plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and state-of-the-art technology.

The suites at The Watergate Hotel are particularly impressive, offering guests the ultimate in luxury and comfort. The Presidential Suite, for example, is a 2,000 square foot space that includes a separate living room, dining room, and bedroom, as well as a private balcony with stunning views of the city.

Guests staying in the suites at The Watergate Hotel also have access to a range of exclusive amenities, including personalized butler service, complimentary breakfast, and access to the hotel’s private rooftop bar and lounge.

If you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience during your stay in Washington D.C., The Watergate Hotel’s guest rooms and suites are sure to impress.

Fine Dining Restaurants

Luxury accommodations often come with a wide range of amenities that can make a guest’s stay more comfortable and enjoyable. One such amenity that is highly sought after by travelers is fine dining restaurants. The Watergate Hotel, located in Washington D.C., offers guests an exceptional culinary experience with its two fine dining restaurants: Kingbird and Top of the Gate.

Kingbird, named after the bird that was once a common sight along the Potomac River, is a contemporary American restaurant that offers seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the river. The menu at Kingbird changes frequently to reflect the freshest ingredients available, but some standout dishes include the roasted duck breast with huckleberry sauce and the grilled octopus with chorizo and fingerling potatoes.

Top of the Gate, located on the rooftop of the hotel, is a popular spot for cocktails and small plates. The panoramic views of the city skyline are unmatched, making it the perfect place to watch the sunset or enjoy a romantic evening out. The menu at Top of the Gate features a variety of small plates, including sushi rolls, sliders, and flatbreads. Guests can also choose from an extensive list of hand-crafted cocktails and wines.

Restaurant Name	Cuisine Type	Signature Dish
Kingbird	American	Roasted Duck Breast with Huckleberry Sauce
Kingbird	American	Grilled Octopus with Chorizo and Fingerling Potatoes
Top of the Gate	Small Plates	Sushi Rolls, Sliders, and Flatbreads

The Watergate Hotel’s commitment to providing guests with exceptional dining experiences has not gone unnoticed. Kingbird has been recognized by numerous publications, including The Washington Post, which awarded the restaurant three stars, and Forbes Travel Guide, which named it one of the best restaurants in the city. Top of the Gate has also received accolades, including being named one of the best rooftop bars in the country by USA Today.

Guests who are looking for a luxury hotel experience that includes fine dining restaurants should consider staying at The Watergate Hotel. With its two exceptional restaurants, Kingbird and Top of the Gate, guests are sure to have an unforgettable culinary experience.

Spa And Fitness Center

The Watergate Hotel offers a luxurious spa and fitness center for its guests. The Argentta Spa is a 12,500 square foot space that features a range of services including massages, facials, body treatments, and nail services. Guests can relax in the sauna or steam room before or after their treatment. The spa also has a private pool and whirlpool for those who want to take a dip.

The fitness center at The Watergate Hotel is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment including treadmills, ellipticals, weight machines, and free weights. There are also group fitness classes available such as yoga and Pilates. Personal training sessions can be arranged for an additional fee.

The Argentta Spa and fitness center at The Watergate Hotel have received high praise from guests and travel publications alike. Travel + Leisure named it one of the best hotel spas in the world in 2018. The spa uses products from luxury brands such as Natura Bissé and ESPA.

Service	Description	Price
Swedish Massage	A classic massage that uses long strokes and kneading to increase circulation and promote relaxation.	$180 for 60 minutes
Facial	A customized facial that includes cleansing, exfoliation, and a mask. Can address concerns such as anti-aging or acne.	$200 for 60 minutes
Personal Training Session	A one-on-one session with a certified personal trainer. Can focus on strength training, cardio, or a combination.	$125 for 60 minutes

In addition to the spa and fitness center, The Watergate Hotel also has a rooftop bar and lounge with stunning views of the Potomac River and Washington Monument. Guests can enjoy cocktails and small plates while taking in the sights.

Meetings And Events

The Watergate Hotel offers luxurious accommodations and amenities for guests, making it an ideal location for meetings and events. The hotel boasts over 27,000 square feet of meeting and event space, including a grand ballroom, boardrooms, and private dining rooms.

The hotel’s meeting spaces are equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and high-speed internet access, ensuring that all attendees can stay connected throughout the event. The hotel also offers catering services, with menus designed by Executive Chef Michael Santoro, who has worked at some of the most prestigious restaurants in the world.

In addition to its meeting and event spaces, The Watergate Hotel also offers a range of amenities for guests, including a rooftop bar and lounge, a full-service spa, and a fitness center. The hotel’s location in the heart of Washington, D.C., makes it easy for guests to explore the city’s many attractions, including the National Mall, the Smithsonian museums, and the White House.

Meeting Space	Square Footage	Capacity
Grand Ballroom	7,000	Up to 700 guests
Boardrooms	400-600	Up to 50 guests
Private Dining Rooms	300-500	Up to 40 guests

The Watergate Hotel has hosted a variety of high-profile events, including political fundraisers, corporate conferences, and weddings. The hotel’s reputation for luxury and sophistication has made it a popular choice among celebrities and dignitaries.

For those looking to host an unforgettable event, The Watergate Hotel offers a range of unique experiences, including private tours of the hotel’s historic artifacts and memorabilia, as well as access to the hotel’s exclusive Top of the Gate rooftop bar and lounge.

The Watergate Hotel’s commitment to excellence and attention to detail make it one of the premier destinations for meetings and events in Washington, D.C.

Insider Tips For Your Stay At The Watergate Hotel

Book Early And Save

When planning a stay at the Watergate Hotel, it is recommended to book early and take advantage of their early bird discounts. By booking in advance, guests can save up to 20% on their room rates.

Booking early not only saves money, but it also ensures that guests have the best selection of rooms available. The Watergate Hotel has a range of luxurious accommodations, including deluxe rooms, suites, and premier suites with stunning views of the Potomac River and the city skyline.

Guests can make their reservations directly through the hotel’s website or by calling their reservations department. It is important to note that early bird rates are subject to availability and may have restrictions or blackout dates.

The Watergate Hotel also offers other special packages and promotions throughout the year, such as their “Stay More, Save More” package, which offers discounts for longer stays, and their “Romance Package,” which includes champagne, chocolates, and a late checkout time.

By booking early and taking advantage of these special offers, guests can experience the luxury and history of the Watergate Hotel while saving money on their stay.

Join The Rewards Program

If you are planning to stay at the Watergate Hotel, it is highly recommended that you join their rewards program. The program offers exclusive benefits and privileges to its members, including discounted room rates, complimentary room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out, and access to special events.

To join the rewards program, you can visit the Watergate Hotel’s official website and sign up for free. Once you become a member, you will receive regular updates about the hotel’s promotions, events, and exclusive offers.

The rewards program is an excellent way to make the most of your stay at the Watergate Hotel. Not only will you enjoy a luxurious experience, but you will also save money and gain access to exclusive perks that are not available to non-members.

If you are a frequent traveler, joining the rewards program is an excellent way to earn points and redeem them for future stays at the Watergate Hotel or other participating hotels.

Rewards Program Benefits	Details
Discounted Room Rates	Members receive up to 15% off regular room rates
Complimentary Room Upgrades	Members may be eligible for complimentary room upgrades, based on availability
Early Check-In and Late Check-Out	Members may be able to check in early or check out late, subject to availability
Special Events Access	Members have access to exclusive events hosted by the Watergate Hotel

Joining the rewards program is a simple and easy process that can be done online. Once you become a member, you will be able to enjoy all of the benefits and privileges offered by the Watergate Hotel.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make your stay at the Watergate Hotel even more memorable. Join the rewards program today and start enjoying exclusive benefits and privileges!

For more information about the rewards program, visit https://www.thewatergatehotel.com/rewards-program.

Explore The Neighborhood

The Watergate Hotel is located in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington D.C. This neighborhood is known for its historic landmarks, including the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the Lincoln Memorial. It is also home to several prestigious universities, such as George Washington University.

One of the best ways to explore the neighborhood is by foot. Take a stroll along the Potomac River and enjoy the scenic views of the city. You can also visit the nearby Georgetown neighborhood, which is known for its charming cobblestone streets and upscale shopping and dining options.

If you are interested in history, be sure to visit the nearby National Mall, where you can see some of the most iconic monuments and memorials in the country, including the Washington Monument and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

For those who prefer a more active experience, there are several parks and outdoor spaces in the area. Rock Creek Park offers hiking trails and picnic areas, while the Tidal Basin is a popular spot for paddle boating and cherry blossom viewing in the spring.

No matter what your interests may be, the Foggy Bottom neighborhood has something to offer for everyone. With its rich history and vibrant culture, it is the perfect place to explore during your stay at the Watergate Hotel.

Take A Guided Tour

If you’re staying at the Watergate Hotel, one of the must-do activities is taking a guided tour of the property. The hotel has a rich history, and a tour will give you insight into the events that took place during the infamous Watergate scandal.

The guided tour takes you through the different areas of the hotel, including the lobby, guest rooms, and the Top of the Gate rooftop bar. You’ll also get to see the original room 214, which was the location of the break-in that eventually led to President Nixon’s resignation.

During the tour, you’ll learn about the hotel’s unique design and architecture, as well as its role in Washington D.C.’s political and social scene. It’s a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of the city and the hotel.

To book a guided tour, simply speak to the concierge or front desk staff. Tours are available daily and typically last around an hour.

For more information on the Watergate Hotel and its history, visit their website.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Watergate Hotel is not just a place to stay, it is an experience that combines history, luxury, and world-class amenities. Whether you are a history buff, a lover of architecture and design, or simply seeking a luxurious getaway, the Watergate Hotel is a destination that should be on your bucket list.So, are you ready to experience the Watergate Hotel for yourself? Book your stay today and discover the magic of this iconic hotel.What other historic hotels have you stayed in? Share your experiences in the comments below.