Arrival/Check-in: After battling Washington’s Saturday traffic, we turned onto M Street and immediately felt removed from the city’s bustle as we pulled up to the Park Hyatt. The bellman cheerfully unloaded the considerable luggage our family of four had brought. Check-in was efficient and polite in a sleek lobby that reflected Park Hyatt’s subtle Asian-inspired design. We were escorted to our suite and our bags arrived within minutes. (29/30)
Guest Quarters: Our accommodation—the Park Suite—was excellent. The layout, with a master bedroom and a connecting room with twin beds and its own bath, was ideal for traveling with children. A hallway separated the bedroom from a powder room; beyond that sat a dining area with a table for four, a hutch and restrained, elegant Japanese-style artwork. A long sofa spanned the back wall, providing ample seating. Between the living space and the bedroom was a “game room” featuring a chessboard motif and comfortable, Asian-inspired chairs and décor. The bedroom offered the signature Park Hyatt bed and a television that flipped to serve both the bedroom and game room. The spacious master bathroom combined gray slate and granite, with a large open shower, a soaking tub and a generous vanity. A mirror in the shower made shaving convenient. (28/30)
Services/Amenities: Once settled, we went to Blue Duck Tavern for a late lunch. The restaurant, beautifully designed by Tony Chi, exposes the open kitchen to diners, and Chef Brian McBride—who has overseen the property for two decades—confirmed there is no hidden “back room.” Later that afternoon, after visiting the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum and walking the National Mall to the Lincoln Memorial, we enjoyed a delightful dinner in our suite. The dining table comfortably accommodated the four of us; service was polished and the cuisine memorable. The hotel also offers a refined afternoon tea service. (39/40)
Experience: Throughout our stay, the staff anticipated our needs and helped make the trip effortless. They even iced our travel cooler before we set off along the I‑95 corridor. The décor, restaurant, service and location felt perfectly matched to the hotel’s tone, and the concierge provided clear directions and excellent recommendations. My only regret is not having had time to visit the spa.
Total Score: (96/100)
Park Hyatt Washington
24 & M Streets, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20037
tel 202 789 1234
http://parkwashington.hyatt.com