Start the season in style at The St. Regis, Washington, DC
St. Regis, Washington, DC
Every winter in Washington, DC, the city’s grande dame hotels spruce up their lobbies, polish the silver and bring out the tea trays. The pomp and circumstance feel sophisticated and decadent, just as holidays should be.
In our opinion, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than a little shopping followed by a festive tea. Each of these hotels offers a unique twist on holiday fun, raising the fun bar higher than ever.
A Grand Tea: The St. Regis Washington, DC
Can’t the tree at Rockefeller Center be visited this season? Do the next best thing and head to the Forbes Travel Guide four-star The St. Regis, Washington, DC, our favorite hotel for old-fashioned glamour.
The St. Regis is not particularly “subtle” in December. The lobby turns into a jewel box of garland and glitter – the setting where 6pm subrage feels normal. The hotel’s holiday afternoon tea is equally lavish. This year’s Champagne and Caviar theme offers an elevated tea tray with Champagne Cheesecake, Chocolate Caviar with Confit Cherries and Angus Beef Skewers with Crème Fraîche.
From 4 to 6 p.m. during the holidays, the hotel also offers a Ladurée macaron cart that can serve as a complement to the tea or serve as its own special treat. We love that the St. Regis holds its celebrations in smaller, more intimate rooms than its competitors, which only adds to the feeling of occasion.
At the Willard InterContinental, you’ll find impressive views, live music, expansive decor, and more.
Willard Intercontinental
A Classic Tea: Willard Intercontinental
If there were a Christmas soundtrack in DC, it would probably include a live harpist in Peacock Alley. Willard’s Holiday Afternoon Tea is one of the city’s longest-standing, best-loved festive traditions, with gilded ceilings, towering decorations and a sophisticated service style that dates back to the 1800s.
Families dress up, couples turn it into dates and guests in the lobby stop to admire the decorations. With the addition of Willard’s famous ornate Christmas tree, it becomes almost a seasonal ritual.
If you can’t make tea, there are other reasons to visit this season. Come for the gingerbread display in the lobby, windows and doors decorated with evergreen accents and nightly caroling, as well as a full menu of holiday drinks at the Round Robin Bar.
The Waldorf Astoria Washington DC is the perfect spot for a holiday tea.
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
A Photogenic Tea: Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
Few places look as dramatic as the lofty courtyard of the four-star Waldorf Astoria, especially during the holidays. The old Post Office building exudes marble grandeur and cathedral-like spaciousness – an unexpected setting for afternoon tea but one that fits perfectly.
Start in grand style – service includes a glass of Veuve – followed by festive nibbles like pomegranate fig tart with brulee brie, winter chicken salad and red velvet macarons.
Although this seasonal tea is always special, it’s all about the setting here. Think classy decor, beautiful table settings and that famous clock tower seen above. It looks both gorgeous and modern – a highly photogenic choice. Plus, it’s close to the bar, which has one or three TVs, ideal for those who want to distract themselves with sports or news channels while sipping.
Salamander Washington DC offers a more modern approach to the season.
Salamander Washington DC
A Hidden Gem Tea: Salamander Washington DC
The recently renovated Salamander has quietly become one of the city’s most charming luxury hotels, and its holiday teas reflect that spirit: elegant but never stuffy, polished but warm. Held in the lounge, the experience is sophisticated yet casual – a great option for those enjoying the festivities without the grandeur of the large historic lobby.
Expect a seasonal menu with thoughtful presentation and flair (see: turkey and cranberry relish with rosemary brioche bites or maple oat scones with espresso glaze) and a casually sophisticated crowd. When you want something high-class without the drama this is the place to choose – a softer, more modern approach to a peaceful December moment. Bonus points if you pair it with spa service at the 14-room oasis below.
The Teddy Bear Tea at the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC is one of the city’s most beloved holiday traditions.
Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC
A Family’s Favorite Tea: Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC
Georgetown’s five-star Four Seasons hosts many festive events, but none is more iconic than the Teddy Bear Tea. It has become the city’s favorite family holiday tradition because of its kid-friendly menu, live entertainment, and a take-home teddy bear that kids cherish like a celebrity.
The experience of growing up is brilliantly preserved at the Four Seasons: delicious pastries, impeccable service and an atmosphere that makes everyone – including tired children – feel at home. Reservations sell out quickly each year, and families often return annually as part of their holiday ritual, with a charitable twist – proceeds benefit Children’s National Hospital.
If you need a reason to visit besides the giant gingerbread display in the lobby and celebrity favorite Jeff Leatham’s new flowers, there will also be special pop-up shops in the hotel’s top suites, allowing you to do your holiday shopping in private, VIP style.
