Traveling every single day of the year has meant that I’ve stayed in countless hotels. Over more than 500 days of a nomadic lifestyle, I’ve experienced a wide range of accommodations, from the finest to the less desirable. I’ve covered everything from budget lodgings to luxury stays, and I believe that any hotel worth recommending must offer comfort, cleanliness, value for money, and treat people as guests, not just customers. I have personally checked into every hotel recommended on Globetrottergirls.com. In this installment: The Governor Hotel in Washington, D.C.
I arrived at the Viceroy Hotel after my weekend in Washington, D.C., attending the inauguration ceremony of the King Memorial Museum. My original hotel was fully booked, prompting me to seek out a new one. From the moment I walked through the theater’s curtains at the Viceroy Hotel, it was a truly delightful experience.
Yes, every time you entered through the front door, you would pass through those curtains with applause and then make your way to your room. As you walked past Andy Warhol-style photographic artworks on the wall, your eyes would adapt to the neon green and shimmering silver color scheme in the hallways, keeping that wonderful feeling alive.
Since I had made a last-minute booking, my expectations were quite low. I was prepared for a small, cluttered room with a double bed. What I got was essentially a spacious room that most hotels would consider a suite, but I was confident it was a standard room. My attention was immediately drawn to the giant revolving entertainment center in the middle of the room, which could rotate for viewing in the bedroom or the living room.
Hidden in a cozy corner for sleep was an incredibly comfortable bed with fully adjustable lighting and sheer curtains, enveloping you in a private sleep space, complete with a leopard-print blanket. I couldn’t help but laugh when I noticed the animal print bathrobe hanging in the closet.
While “fun” seems to be the primary focus at the Viceroy, it’s clear from the well-equipped office desk area that the motto here is “work hard, play harder.” The desk comes with ample outlets and power strips for charging and using multiple devices. The ergonomic office chair is as comfortable as the sofa, perfect for watching TV or, of course, getting some work done.
The retro space-age mini-bar was absolutely fantastic! Forget about the $9 mini vodka bottles and lackluster peanuts. This mini-bar extravaganza included popular rock tunes, a Pez water dispenser, hangover remedies, and… even some adult-themed fun items.
As for the bathroom, it was… adequate. Some might find the compact shower/tub and toilet space a bit tight, but we’d argue that if it leaves ample room for a spacious living area and a separate sleeping nook, it’s a worthwhile trade-off.
The focus of the room was undoubtedly the mini-bar and entertainment center, creating a unique and exciting atmosphere. The combination of retro space-age design and modern amenities made for a memorable stay, and the well-thought-out details, like the Pez water dispenser and hangover remedies, added a fun and quirky touch to the experience. This room was not just about sleeping; it was an adventure in itself.
Viceroy Hotel in Washington, DC offers a wide range of amenities to ensure guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. On the ground floor, you’ll discover a well-appointed fitness center that caters to fitness enthusiasts. This fitness center features two state-of-the-art treadmills, a versatile cross-training machine, a stair climber for those seeking a challenging cardio workout, and a complete set of weightlifting equipment for those who wish to engage in strength training. Whether you’re looking to break a sweat, maintain your fitness routine, or simply stay active during your stay, the fitness center has you covered.
For those who value the convenience of exercising in the privacy of their own room, the Viceroy Hotel offers Flex Suites. These suites come equipped with fitness equipment, allowing you to engage in personal workouts without leaving the comfort of your accommodation.
Adjacent to the fitness center, you’ll find a fully functional business center, complete with all the necessary tools and amenities to cater to your work-related needs. This is perfect for business travelers who need to attend to important tasks during their stay.
In a unique and exciting twist, the hotel also provides two recording studios for rock enthusiasts. This innovative amenity caters to those who have a passion for music, making the Viceroy Hotel a memorable destination for music lovers.
When it comes to dining, the hotel’s restaurant offers delectable options for both breakfast and dinner, ensuring that guests can savor delicious meals without having to venture far from their accommodations. Additionally, the hotel’s bar remains open until 1 AM, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere for those looking to enjoy the night. However, if you prefer a quieter and more serene environment during your stay, you can request a room on the opposite side of the building, away from the bustling nightlife, to ensure a peaceful night’s rest. Viceroy Hotel in Washington, DC excels in providing a diverse array of amenities to cater to the unique needs and preferences of its guests, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable stay.
Viceroy Hotel in Washington, DC sets itself apart with a range of exceptional features that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of its guests:
- Pet-Friendly Paradise: One of the hotel’s most outstanding attributes is its pet-friendly policy. In fact, Viceroy Hotel welcomes dogs with open arms, making it a pet-friendly haven for travelers. Upon your canine companion’s arrival, the hotel provides food and water bowls to ensure their comfort. What’s more, all guest rooms are designed to accommodate pets, so you and your furry friend can enjoy a truly relaxing and stress-free stay together.
- Eco-Conscious Approach: For guests driving hybrid vehicles, Viceroy Hotel offers a notable eco-friendly perk. They generously slash the daily parking fee in half for hybrid car owners, underscoring their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.
- Creative Spaces: The hotel boasts two fully equipped recording studios, making it the perfect destination for night owls or creative minds who find inspiration in the late hours. These studios are not only ideal for musicians but also for those seeking a space to nurture their creative endeavors. Whether you want to write music or simply explore your artistic side, Viceroy’s recording studios are there to provide the necessary tools and ambiance.
- Family-Centric Experience: While Viceroy Hotel embraces fun and excitement, it also caters to families. A TripAdvisor reviewer shared an experience where the staff went above and beyond by providing a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine when they noticed she was traveling with children. The hotel even offers family rooms with specially designed accommodations for children, making it a welcoming choice for families looking to create lasting memories together.
With these remarkable and diverse features, Viceroy Hotel Washington, DC ensures that every guest’s preferences are not just met but exceeded, guaranteeing an unforgettable and pleasurable stay for all.
Picture a weary business traveler sitting through a mundane conference, her mind drifting to the moment she’ll return to the Viceroy Hotel. The thought alone elicits a gleeful chuckle as she envisions herself donning a leopard-print robe and sinking into the vibrant-colored sofas, all while rocking out to some popular rock tunes. To be candid, the Viceroy Hotel’s extravagant and charismatic aura may come off as a tad flamboyant, rendering it unsuitable for those who lack a sense of humor or seek the standard opulence of a typical business hotel. However, for a different kind of traveler, the Viceroy’s unique appeal is nothing short of remarkable.
This hotel doesn’t just offer accommodation; it delivers an entire experience, one that whisks you away to a world of entertainment and joy. The moment you step inside, you’re primed for quirky encounters, whether it’s searching for delightful surprises in the mini-bar or letting your creative juices flow in the recording studios.
The Viceroy Hotel provides an atmosphere and design that’s brimming with creativity, ideal for those who yearn for a departure from the ordinary. Yes, it might be a tad flashy, but for those who appreciate humor, embrace non-traditional luxury, and savor unconventional travel experiences, this place becomes an irresistible haven. At the Viceroy Hotel, you’re assured of laughter, adventure, and the chance to explore a journey like no other, all while wrapped in a leopard-print robe. It truly is a destination that promises excitement and unforgettable memories.
Despite our gratitude for the valuable local tips we received, we couldn’t help but observe a certain aloofness in the demeanor of the hotel staff. One notable instance of this was the absence of any information about breakfast arrangements. We had heard whispers of complimentary coffee and tea in the mornings, but it would have been greatly appreciated if a member of the staff had taken a moment to explain the details and ensure we were well-informed about what to expect.
Viceroy Hotel, nestled in the heart of Washington, DC, is a unique and budget-friendly establishment that caters to a distinct audience. For travelers like us, who have explored a multitude of hotel options, it’s a breath of fresh air to encounter a hotel that wholeheartedly embraces its theme with a 110% commitment. Here, there are no half-measures or design compromises. The meticulous attention to detail becomes an enjoyable aspect of the stay, and the infusion of pop-rock culture adds an extra layer of appeal.
If you’re on the hunt for a run-of-the-mill, cookie-cutter hotel experience, then Viceroy may not align with your expectations. However, for those willing to embrace something different, Viceroy Hotel emerges as a top-notch boutique accommodation in a vibrant Washington, DC community. In comparison, nearby boutique hotels may appear somewhat uninspiring. Viceroy Hotel is not just a place to rest your head; it’s an immersive, memorable boutique hotel experience that deviates from the conventional, setting a distinctive and memorable tone.
