DESTINATION

Founded in 1790, the District is home to the US government — and to businesses and organizations that create a global impact. From the White House to the Smithsonian Institution, Washington is a hub of history and culture, and Lafayette Square – named for the French Marquis de Lafayette who led American troops in the Revolutionary War – has long been one of DC’s premier addresses – a place of refinement, elegance and power.

10 REASONS THAT SOFITEL WASHINGTON DC LAFAYETTE SQUARE IS MORE THAN JUST A LUXURIOUS PLACE TO STAY

From the moment you arrive at Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square, you’ll experience a one-of-a-kind stay—drawing inspiration from both the local culture and the French art de vivre. Here, you’ll find a celebration of innovation, as well as luxurious touches and thoughtful design details. Take in a stunning array of Art Deco style in our historic building when you check-in, then settle into your well-appointed room—complete with elegant accents and timeless décor. When you’re ready to explore the city, we are just two blocks away from the White House and walking distance to many of the monuments and museums.

1. Order a chic French picnic basket to-go. Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square has partnered with Sofia Rosé & Sofia Brut Rosé to create Sofitel Magnifique Picnic Baskets. Our culinary team has paired the wine with the perfect cheese and charcuterie selections. Sofitel Picnic Baskets for two are available to order. Picnic on the National Mall while gazing at the Washington Monument.

2. Enjoy a cozy cocktail by a fire pit on Opaline’s patio.  Our talented culinary team have created a sumptuous menu with small-bite offerings and signature dishes such as the Opaline Burger with caramelized onion, mushroom, lettuce, habanero aioli and frites.

Photo courtesy of Washington.org

3. In the morning, grab your coffee to go. Choose from a selection of teas or coffee in the lobby and get a head start on the day as you visit the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and see all the animals in their early morning routine.

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4. Get your steps in by Strolling on the Georgetown Waterfront and find a picnic spot overlooking the Potomac River.

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5. Enjoy your chic French picnic at Mount Vernon, and enjoy a bite to eat while soaking up American history.

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6. Fall into the lovely hues of autumn at Hillwood Estate Museum & Gardens. Nestled in the hills of Northwest Washington, D.C., Hillwood welcomes visitors from around the world with its gracious hospitality. Escape into an oasis only five miles from downtown Washington and explore the pristine mansion and enjoy the beauty of the formal gardens.

Photo courtesy of Washington.org

7. Visit the National Portrait Gallery. Experience portraiture beyond the frame. Explore collections that present people of remarkable character and achievement. These Americans—artists, politicians, scientists, inventors, activists and performers form the basis of our national identity.

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8. Spend the afternoon at the The National Arboretum—yet another spot to enjoy a chic French picnic. The U.S. National Arboretum enhances the economic, environmental, and aesthetic value of ornamental and landscape plants through long-term, multi-disciplinary research, conservation of genetic resources and interpretative gardens and exhibits.

Photo courtesy of Washington.org

9. End the day with a tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. It is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture. It was established by Act of Congress in 2003, following decades of efforts to promote and highlight the contributions of African Americans.

10. Retire to the luxury of your stylish French guest room after a magnifique day spent visiting all of the reopened museums and monuments in the nation’s capital!