SmarterTravel Spotlight: Sofitel Washington DC

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The Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square combines the French hotel brand’s signature style with the capital city’s historical grandeur. Step into the lushly decorated lobby, and you’ll be greeted with paintings from local artist Maggie O’Neill’s First Lady Collection, just one of the many Washington winks throughout the hotel—after all, the White House is practically the Sofitel’s neighbor. 

The Location

The Sofitel is just a block from the White House, placing the property in the middle of all of Washington DC’s best tourist attractions. The National Mall, Washington Monument, and many Smithsonian museums are all within easy walking distance. 

Located less than a five-minute walk from the McPherson Square Metro stop, the hotel is near several subway and bus lines, making it easy to explore the city without needing a car. 

Amenities

Washington, DC is a city on the move. Keep up with the many fitness-focused amenities available at the Sofitel. The hotel’s fitness center is stocked with Peloton bikes, treadmills, weights, and everything you’ll need for a full workout. Free classes and guided runs are available upon request. 

The Sofitel charges a $34.79 nightly “urban experience fee,” which includes:

• Self-serve coffee and tea in the lobby until 11 am
• Complimentary afternoon beverages
• Free WiFi
• Guided runs
• Yoga classes
• Daily $10 laundry or dry cleaning credit 

Valet parking is available, with rates starting at $65 per night.

The Rooms

The Sofitel offers rooms fit for celebrities, dignitaries, and heads of state—all of which the property has hosted throughout its history. Rooms are modern, with Art Deco-inspired touches that bring a bit of the past into the present.

Rooms feature luxurious amenities, including cozy robes and slippers, Balmain Paris toiletries, Bose sound systems, and Sofitel’s trademarked MyBed—a distinctively plush feather-top mattress designed to ensure a good night’s sleep.

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Even standard rooms are spacious at the Sofitel, with the smallest rooms measuring a palatial 370 square feet. 

For even more room, opt for one of the suites, which offer separate living and sleeping areas perfect for working trips or family vacations. 

Dining

The Sofitel’s French influence is most notable in the onsite dining. Opaline Bar & Brasserie is open daily for breakfast and dinner, as well as for Saturday afternoon tea and weekend brunch. 

Classic French dishes like French onion soup and ratatouille are served alongside local cuisine, like the First Ladies Cocktail menu, which features drinks inspired by presidents’ wives. On this menu, you’ll find fun aperitifs (and learn a little about the historical figures who inspired them). Don’t miss the Helen Taft, made with Kyoto Cherry Rose Tea infused vodka, sake, kumquat oleo elixir, and marasca cherry essence, named after the woman who brought the cherry blossom trees to the city. 

Price and How to Book

Room rates start around $179 per night and can be booked on Expedia.

Editor’s Note: Sofitel hosted the author of this story.

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