Hilton Washington DC National Mall The Wharf

We (including our 8-year old daughter) stayed 5 nights here in the midst of a scorching August heatwave, and were really glad for the great outdoor pool. We didn’t even use it everyday, but when we did, it was indispensable. And the pool is quite large for a centrally-located hotel, with an expansive deck area and plenty of loungers. For those looking for a quieter & kid-friendly scene, be assured there are no DJs, no bar, no “scene”. It’s perfectly quiet. The hotel itself was pleasant. The room (a double king) was large enough that we weren’t stumbling into each other, the bathroom/shower was clean, the beds plush & comfortable. We had a “breakfast-included” option, and were glad to start our day with it. The buffet isn’t huge, but varied enough that we weren’t bored after 3 meals. That indulgence added $50/night to our bill, but the ala carte price was $30/person + $18/child, so it made sense. The staff, unfortunately, seemed uninspired. Greetings were super subtle (even by the 5th day), and adding a gratuity to our check didn’t bring any mojo at all. Getting coffee was hit or miss (HINT: if you are walking around with the coffee pot, LOOK AROUND! I *GUARANTEE* people will want their cups refilled , and they will be grateful!!! Don’t look at the floor). Other meal options are downstairs in the house underground mall, which features numerous fast food counters and a few healthy choices. We saw quite a few people down there when walking to the Metro, but it seems depressing. Since this hotel is in L’Enfant Plaza, you may find the surrounding Brutalist architecture to be charmless (it is). The area nearby has zero charm, and the closest food destination is the wharf (15 min. walk), which is pretty but filled with overpriced restaurants that are not inspired to excel, given the constant march of tourists along the water.

Daniel