"What should we know before we go?Situated in a prime downtown location, D.C.’s longest-operating hotel has a past full of history and scandal (earning it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places)—but it’s a great place to stay. Monica Lewinsky took up residence there while filing her deposition and most recently, the hotel was in the news for a meeting that attorney general Jeff Sessions says didn’t take place. Expect (and keep eyes peeled for it) to see bold-faced names when you walk through; it's a D.C. destination in itself. The good stuff: Tell us about the rooms.While the lobby is grand and ornate, with lots of marble and gold, rooms are more understated, and recently renovated in 2015. They’re mostly grey and white, but one cool touch: accent walls feature wallpapers with signatures from famous guests, including JFK. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Anything of note?Wi-Fi is only free if you join Marriott’s rewards program, and there are no in-room coffee-making facilities. The bar, however, is a great place to perch and crane your neck for famous visitors: it's an after-work draw for the nearby K Street lobbyists and the city's movers and shakers. How about dining on-site?Gather your crew at Edgar, the cozy, in-house brasserie—there's no better way to kick off a night than with some shared plates of prosciutto-wrapped mozzarella, drizzled in balsamic vinegar and olive oil (though the charcuterie board, stacked with braesola and cornichons, works well, too) at the eatery's social hour before you shuffle out the door to explore the many great restaurants nearby (from downtown stalwarts to the hip and funky spots of Dupont Circle). Bottom line: worth it, and why?Tumultuous history aside, the Mayflower is a great choice for business travelers—especially with the on-site Thomas Pink clothing store." - Laura Ratliff
