images courtesy of pendry washington D.C. - The wharf
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The neighborhood by the harbor is taking off
Pendry Washington D.C. - The Wharf Is a Waterfront Respite in the Heart of Up-and-Coming D.C.
The White House, Capitol Hill, Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian—your perception of “The District” may be (appropriately) tinted with an All the King’s Men lens. But a stay at Pendry Washington D.C. - The Wharf adds a new dimension to the nation’s capital in the form of rest, relaxation and, dare we say, fun? Located along the Wharf, the mile-long “playground” on the Potomac, the area has quickly become a new city landmark with a trendy selection of restaurants, shops and even live events that offer a carefree counterpoint to all the suits and politicking. Although, we do suggest reaching across the aisle to make sure you have time for some pampering at Spa Pendry.
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Who should you bring?
With its prime location, luxe offerings and sleek overall feel, Pendry Washington D.C. - The Wharf is ideal for really any kind of visitor. But we were pleasantly surprised to find that it’s a uniquely family-friendly option, too. Open the door and you’re on the sprawling boardwalk with fresh air and river views. All the must-see destinations are easily reached by walking, biking, driving or taking the Metro. For instance, you could peruse the Wharf on foot 45 minutes north to get to the Lincoln Memorial, all while keeping the kids happy and busy along the water. The National Mall, Holocaust Museum and International Spy Museum are also conveniently nearby. Plus, the Pendry property itself has an abundance of space with its three on-site restaurants. Should you let your kids run wild through the halls? Of course not, but for a D.C. destination, the rooms and shared spaces have a comfortable kind of breathing room so you don’t feel like your family is a walking bull in a china shop. In warmer months, we’d love to take advantage of the rooftop pool sans little ones, lounging away in a sophisticated cabana with a pitcher of white sangria within reach at all times. A summer wedding group or bachelor/ette party would do well here. While the pool menu has a kid’s menu, we’d prefer an adults-only stay for this one.
What’s the food like?
A room service meal can tell you all you need to know about a hotel, and let’s just say an in-room crab cake changed our life. (Ah, still thinking about it.) If you do decide to leave your quarters, the property’s main restaurant, Flora Flora, serves up an excellently executed traditional breakfast and brunch. Come lunch and dinner, the eatery leans more into its Latin American ethos with stand-out dishes like pumpkin empanadas, tuna crudo, mole queso and short ribs. Opt for a night cap (or two) at Bar Pendry, a warm, rich and refined lobby bar that serves up intimate vibes and impeccable cocktails and lite bites. (We’ve heard the caviar deviled eggs are *chef’s kiss*). Not ready for bed just yet? Head to the rooftop Moonraker, where panoramic views greet you alongside a Japanese-inspired menu of cocktails and appetizers.
Did you get a good night’s sleep?
We found the beds super comfy—the Fili D’Oro luxury linens don’t hurt—and appreciated that the room stayed dark even with the bright morning sun. We do, however, recommend requesting a room above the third floor to avoid noise from all that Wharf action on weekend evenings.
What amenities are available?
whirlpools, in addition to a range of treatment options available). Gym buffs will enjoy the 24/7 fitness enter, as well as the many wellness activities on offer such as hiking along the bluff, cycling classes outside, meditation, beach yoga and more. Speaking of the beach, the Monarch Bay Beach Club is exclusively available to members and guests and has everything you need to surf the waves, paddle board, SUP and more. Or hey, if you’d just like to kick back on a beach chair with a glass of wine, then that’s cool too.
The rooftop pool, fitness center and spa each offer contemporary, up-to-the-moment utilities in beautiful settings. The fitness center is open 24/7 with access to hot commodities like Technogym fitness equipment and Peloton bikes while Spa Pendry allows you to escape and relax in the eucalyptus steam room between treatments. (Psst: for non-guests, if you book a 90-minute or longer treatment you have access to the heated terrace pool and fitness center.)
How was the service?
The service was fast, friendly and attentive—exactly what you would expect from a luxury resort. Any request for more waters, towels, etc. was met promptly and pleasantly. Extra cool detail: You can communicate with the front desk via text message (so much easier than having to call down or visit the front desk IRL, no?).
What was your favorite part?
It’s the trifecta of the perfect location, comfortable beds and vibey on-site bar that made our stay exactly what we were looking for. We could explore D.C., hitting up all the tourist attractions with ease, rest and relax in our exceedingly comfortable room and then decide what to do next over a fabulous cocktail at Bar Pendry.
Know before you go:
The Wharf is a very cool new area of the city—so if you’re staying at the Pendry on the Wharf, you might know more about the neighborhood than most locals! Obviously, sites like the Lincoln Memorial (definitely go at least once at night too!), the Washington Monument along the National Mall and White House are must-sees. But if you have kids, it can’t hurt to balance the seriousness with a visit to the Boardwalk Bar & Arcade.
book it
Accommodation options:
Rooms, Suites, and Accessible Options
Price:
From $355 per room
Location:
Washington DC – The Wharf
Property:
Pendry Washington D.C. - The Wharf
Basics
Details
The service was attentive and friendly. We couldn’t have received our requested extra pillows fast enough. Plus, we love that the concierge team seems super up-to-date. Beyond the usual booking reservations or pointing you in general direction, the Pendry staff is equipped to guide you on things like where the best outdoor walking and running routes are in the neighborhood.
How was the service?
The service was attentive and friendly. We couldn’t have received our requested extra pillows fast enough. Plus, we love that the concierge team seems super up-to-date. Beyond the usual booking reservations or pointing you in general direction, the Pendry staff is equipped to guide you on things like where the best outdoor walking and running routes are in the neighborhood.
What’s the food like?
Is a Waterfront Respite in the Heart of Up-and-Coming D.C.