Hay Adams Hotel - 800 16th Street NW
With an almost unbeatable downtown location and unobstructed views of The White House, this extraordinarily elegant hotel is known for being rich both in splendor and DC tradition. Often the host the a slew of well-known Washingtonian politicos and socialites, the Hay Adams Hotel is a cozy but classy choice for holiday drinks and dining.
While their in-house restaurant, The Lafayette, has been popular with District diners for years, DC party-goers venture to this historic hotspot to sip cocktails at the infamous speakeasy bar on the lowest level of the hotel.
Off the Record has a reputation for nightlife excellence, as it was named by Forbes.com as one of the nation's best hotel bars. Affectionately referred to as Washington's place "to be seen and not heard," their deep red and cherry interiors effortlessly sets the tone for a swanky seasonal night on the town.
[Photos via, via]