Winter at Hyatt Regency in Washington, D.C.

​You know that feeling when you are reunited with a longtime friend? That’s the feeling we had when we stepped into Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill for a family winter holiday getaway. We first visited this hotel last year and were impressed with its fantastic location in Washington, D.C., loved the size of the suites, and the dining was delicious. So when we decided we wanted to see the monuments and visit a few of the Smithsonian museums this holiday season, we knew exactly where we wanted to stay.

The entrance is on street level which overlooks the entire lobby area below. Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill has always had that glamorous and comfortable feel...but now it's even better! Just a few months ago, the lobby, restaurant and lounge went through a fresh renovation and they did a terrific job. 

Wait until you see the new Jumbotron over the bar in Article One Lounge...with 16 screens connected to make four separate video screens (or even one large one) sports, news and other events can be seen throughout the lounge. I can imagine that watching the ball drop on New Year's Eve on the Jumbotron will make you feel like you are practically there!  ​

The golden hues and over-sized chairs in the lounge area are SO inviting. As I was enjoying my personal favorite activity of people watching, I saw guests enjoying cocktails and food, reading a book, doing a jigsaw puzzle and playing card games. This is the perfect spot to take in the vibe of the hotel.  

​For planning our itinerary, the hotel was a great resource. When we first checked in, we were warmly greeted by Carlos Saldivar, Front Desk Manager, and quickly learned that he is extremely knowledgeable on the activities and history of Washington, D.C. He's fabulous in pointing you in the right direction, plus he makes check-in and check-out a breeze. 

One of my best tips when planning travel is to be flexible. During this trip, I had to listen to my own advice. Only days before our arrival, the United States Government imposed a shutdown that included the Department of the Interior. As the Smithsonian is governed by the Interior, we were a bit nervous if we would be able to take full advantage of our visit. Luckily, lots of Washington, D.C. is still open and the Smithsonian museums secured enough funding to remain open through January 1, 2019. Even if you are visiting after this date and the government is still closed, there is still plenty to explore.

Fun attractions within walking distance

​National Museum of American History

The National Museum of American History has always been one of my favorites. From the United States of America's first flag to the First Ladies' gowns, you'll find everything on American history and culture in between. Learn about the History of Food and see Julia Child's Kitchen. It had to be custom built with high counter tops since she was a towering 6 feet 3 inches tall. Then walk through the History of Transportation from trains to boats to automobiles. ​​

Tucker 1948

Ruby Slippers worn by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz

​Currently, the National Museum of American History has a Superheroes display that recently opened in November 2018. It's a fun way to reminisce with comic books, superhero costumes, and see the Batmobile driven by popular superhero Batman.  

National Museum of African American History and Culture 

It opened in September 2016 and is still one of the most popular museums in Washington, D.C. As in every Smithsonian museum entrance is free, but it can get crowded. To guarantee admission, reserve a Timed Entry Pass ahead of time. 

Since we are huge basketball fans, we headed directly to the Sports exhibit on the 3rd floor. Here you can see LeBron James' Equality sneakers along with a Reebok “Shaq Attaq” right foot sneaker, game-worn by Shaquille O'Neal. 

Can you guess their shoe sizes? Answer: Shaq is a size 22 and LeBron wears a size 15.

The Sports Illustrated magazine shows how even in high school, LeBron was making a name for himself.

Historic Buildings and Monuments

Visit Archives of United States of America to see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.

One of the perks of staying at Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill is walking out the front door and seeing this Capitol view!

Head to the Mall and see the Washington Monument. The Smithsonian Museums are also in this area.

Still a working train station, Union Station is also home to fantastic shopping, bakeries, and restaurants.

Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill is unbelievably convenient to many attractions in Washington, D.C. That means that when you are tired and hungry, you can get back to your home-away-from-home in no time. 

Of course, we couldn't wait to eat! I've heard so much about the seasonal menu at Article One - American Grill and we were excited to try it. They have transformed the restaurant beautifully from our last visit. The jewel tone colors and unique art surrounding the dining area are reminiscent of the Washington, D.C. theme and very welcoming. 

Picture Credit: Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill

We were seated in a secluded area and it was perfect. They have a few intimate spots that can be used to extend the restaurant seating area or can be closed off for private functions. ​

Picture Credit: Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill

We were thrilled when Executive Sous Chef Peter Schafer personally delivered the appetizers to our table. Starting with creative starters of Deviled Eggs and Fried Rock Shrimp & Calamari with Old Bay Mayo, we chatted with him as we devoured these bites. (Look for the Jalapeño Chips hidden between the shrimp and calamari - they are a delicious surprise!) He is truly passionate about the food he serves, along with being in Washington, D.C. If you dine here, don't be surprised if you see him coming to your table. He enjoys taking quick breaks from the kitchen to greet guests and he's a pleasure to meet. 

One thing about our family is that we have a variety of tastes. Although from the pickiest eater to the most gourmet, everyone found what they loved on the menu. We did make a few changes and substitutions with our selections, but everything was noted and arrived just the way we ordered. We also really appreciated the hearty sized portions after walking and sightseeing all day.  

Grain Bread and Herb Butter arrived hot to our table

Grass-Fed Burger with a side of Truffle French Fries

Prime Rib smothered in Mushrooms with Mashed Potatoes

Mustard Crusted Rack of Lamb

We are never ones to miss dessert! 

Deep Dish Apple Pie (with Vanilla Ice Cream on the side)

Chocolate Ganache Cheesecake

And the accommodations! I highly recommend a Capitol Suite. It's spacious with a bright corner window view, tons of storage, and enough seating for an entire family. This was our second stay in this hotel and we are always surprised how quiet the rooms are even though it's in a prime location of the city. 

When staying in a suite, everyone will be looking forward to getting back to the room. ​Reserve a premium Capitol Suite for your visit and this is what you will enjoy:  

• 800-square-foot suite
• Separate bedroom with one king bed
• Spacious marble bathroom with large soaking tub
• ​Dining table for six
• Wet Bar with ​Mini-fridge​

When traveling with your family, this suite has a very comfortable sofa (even teenager approved!) A roll-away bed or crib is available upon request if you want to add even more sleeping room to the living area. 

This huge sofa is perfect situated by the window. Look to the left and you can see the Capitol.

With a large TV, living room, dining room and separate bedroom, the Capitol Suite feels like a small apartment.

I love having a dining area in the room. Open the cabinets in the bar and you'll find a mini-fridge, microwave and coffee maker.

The bedroom is spacious and provides privacy from the main area.

Through a private parlor area, a Capitol Suite can also connect to a separate room with 2 Double Beds. I am truly in love with their Hyatt Grand Beds™ and could sleep in one every night. They are SO comfortable.   ​

Breakfast at Article One - American Grill was as good as I remembered it. It's a great start to the morning.

The coffee is delicious!

Mixed Berry Smoothie (with an eco-friendly paper straw)

Steel Cut Oatmeal served with Organic Apple Butter & Crisp Candied Walnuts. It's also offered with Housemade Granola & Spoon Fruit or Brown Sugar, Raisins & Milk

They have the best Belgian Waffles! Served with Virginia Peanut Butter and Local Jam. Maple Syrup and Sweet Butter is also available on the side.

If you don't have the time for a sit-down breakfast, room service is available or stop in the market for a delicious pastry and a wide assortment of drinks. You can also pick up a bottle of wine to enjoy in the room and browse for local souvenirs at the same time. 

The attention to detail is apparent at Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill. In any of the dining venues, you might see Katherine (Katie) Meyers, Assistant Operations Manager. She works closely with the culinary team and since we love to eat our way around a hotel, we really enjoyed meeting her.

​A few of my favorite things!

• ​All guests have complimentary WiFi and as a person who's admittedly a bit social media obsessed, the speed is fast and seamless while walking throughout the hotel. 
• Check-in and check-out is SO easy. Look for an email to give you the option of when you want to check in or out. You can also specify how you want to receive your final invoice. No waiting in line!
• The amenities when staying in a suite are fabulous. Don't worry if you forget your toothbrush. There is a toothbrush and toothpaste in the bathroom, along with amazing upgraded soaps and shampoos.
• Did you valet your car? 10-minutes before you need it, text the valet using the number of your ticket and they will bring your car around for you. Perfect to avoid standing in the chilly winter air.

Any time of year that you visit Washington, D.C. is magical, although I think this winter trip to Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill was one of my favorites. I'm already researching our next visit! 

If you are planning a visit to Washington, D.C. this winter, Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill is running some fantastic specials. Take a look here! 

Disclaimer: I was graciously hosted by Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill for accommodations, including parking and breakfast, during our stay. As always, all opinions are completely my own based on our experiences.  ​​

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