The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.

Built on 22nd Street in Washington's West End, the Ritz-Carlton occupies a full city block two blocks from the World Bank and a ten-minute walk from the Kennedy Center along the Potomac waterfront.

The spa runs three floors below the lobby, with a steam room, sauna, and relaxation pool separate from the main fitness floor. Personal trainers and yoga classes are bookable through the concierge rather than a generic app portal. The restaurant accepts special diet requests at booking rather than at the table — a detail that distinguishes it from nearby five-star competitors.

The West End location keeps the hotel clear of National Mall crowds while staying within one Metro stop of Foggy Bottom and Georgetown's M Street dining corridor.