A Luxury Hotel Surprise at Four Seasons Washington, D.C.

Fresh. Hip. Cozy. Fun. These are not the adjectives I thought would be at the top of my notes list at the Four Seasons Washington. Despite the fact that this hotel opened 34 years ago — it’s the first Four Seasons branded hotel to open in the United States — and is the hotel of choice for the global Who’s Who visiting our nation’s capital, it’s modern and exciting with zero pretentious attitude. Unexpected, no?

Part of the fresh feel is due to brilliant renovations and interior design. However, the way it looks inside isn’t the full story behind its glory. At any Four Seasons, the staff plays a huge role in setting the vibe and the Four Seasons Washington is no exception. The minute you walk through the front door it feels like home — albeit a glamorous one — but home nonetheless. Here’s what makes this landmark hotel so special:

four-seasons-washington-concierge-desk
Four Seasons Washington secret sauce is the staff

Four Seasons Washington Staff

The average staff member I spoke to has worked at this hotel for over 15 years. Take Mel for example, their unbelievably talented concierge, who has been at the property for over 32 years.

When we walked into the hotel exhausted and famished after our cross-country flight, Mel had our dinner sorted in seconds. In addition, he passed us his ready list of all of Washington’s best attractions for families. Mel’s gift isn’t telling families what to see as that is available in spades on the Internet; his gift is how to see these attractions. There are more things to do than time available and a strategy is required. I’d say that 32 years behind that desk makes Mel an expert.

The Four Seasons Washington’s secret sauce is the staff who wants to be here and in turn, make guests pampered with authentic warmth and caring.

Over-the-top creative kids’ welcome gift

Family-Friendly Guest Rooms

We opened the door to a tented bed and mini-grill complete with brownie/gummy worm charcoal and flames, accompanied by brownie burgers and s’mores. This creative masterpiece tasted as good as it looks. Add in a set of Washington DC children’s books to peruse and you have one excited kid.

Guest room possibilities for families are extensive and include a variety of suites with pull-out sofas, as well as connecting rooms.  Some suites include multiple bathrooms. The Royal Suite is fit for a king, literally. Be sure and understand all the different fabulous options before making your selection.

Royal Suite is fit for a king – literally!

Spa and Fitness Club

The 3,500 square foot spa and fitness club is a wonderful spot for sightseeing breaks with a saltwater lap pool (kids welcome!) and workout room overlooking the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal.

The spa offers all kinds of face and body treatments using luxury product lines, as well as the latest in organic skincare from Amala. There’s also a fantastic retail area with unique and thoughtfully procured kids’ clothes and gifts. It’s worth a stop to check out all their goodies, even if you don’t have time for a full workout and/or treatment.

Wonderful garden terrace with fire pits and heat lamps is a kid-friendly relaxation zone

Dining

Seasons is power broker central for breakfast in the morning. That made it no less comfortable for us — just more entertaining! After a recent 1M renovation, the room is spacious and lovely. I hear they have a not-to-be-missed Sunday brunch too.

Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak House is the main venue for lunch and dinner. Again, I was thoroughly surprised to find that instead of a typical high-end, stuffy restaurant at a landmark luxury hotel, the Four Seasons Washington offers a venue that is so modern and vibrant. It’s totally unexpected, and of course, quality is paramount; in addition to bringing a fun, young element to the property, the food is phenomenal.

Kids’ menu from Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak House

They have a kids’ menu too with the usual suspects and more. Lobster corn dogs, filet mignon, and market salad — everyone can have a special dinner out.

Philanthropy

The community loves the Four Seasons Washington as much as their guests.  The hotel gives back in spades by partnering with all flavors of organizations doing good. This week they are honoring policeman, fireman, and other civil servants with a Thanksgiving meal served on a 53-foot Mayflower trailer.

I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to stay at the Four Seasons Washington. This hotel is truly a special spot for kids and their luxury-loving parents.

Want More Information and Help Booking a Holiday at Four Seasons Washington DC?

We can help! Our kid-friendly hotel review of Four Seasons Washington DC has more information about why this property works so well for families. If you’d like comprehensive help planning a full beach vacation anywhere in the world, request assistance by Connecting with a Family Travel Advisor.

Editorial Note: Ciao Bambino received complimentary accommodations and meals at the Four Seasons Washington. They did not ask us to present any particular opinion. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed on Ciao Bambino are our own. Photos by Amie O’Shaughnessy

Relevant Links:

Washington DC trip planning tips

10 new ways to experience Washington DC with kids

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1 Comments
  • You are absolutely correct about how delicious the food at the Bourbon Steak House. I was pleasently surprised to find one nearby one of the Northgate hotels I frequent in Seattle. Haven’t dined at a different steak house in that area since.

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