BookResorts™ is an independent travel network offering over 100,000 hotels worldwide.is an independent travel network.

The Watergate Hotel Washington, District of Columbia
Book Now Or call, 24/7+1 (888) 605-1350
Rooms & Suites Dine & Drink Activities Spa Gallery FAQs
Ready to book?Lowest online rate, free perks and upgrades.Book nowCall 24/7 · 888-605-1350
Hotel comparison guide

The Watergate Hotel vs Willard InterContinental Washington

The Watergate Hotel is a sleek, riverside five-star property in Foggy Bottom with a restored indoor saltwater pool and rooftop bar—great for travelers who want river views, nightlife, and a modern-staged stay. Willard InterContinental Washington is a historic Beaux-Arts five-star near the White House—readers who want stately rooms, central proximity to national sights, and large meeting or event space should consider it.

Updated · about 1.7 km apart

Bathroom floor mat, slippers and a robe in a guest bathroom at The Watergate Hotel

The Watergate Hotel

Riverside · Modern & theatrical · Spa & rooftop

Best for riverfront views, a lively rooftop scene, and a contemporary spa experience.

See rooms & suites
Willard InterContinental Washington, Washington, District of Columbia

Willard InterContinental Washington

Historic grand hotel · White House proximity · Extensive meeting space

Best for being within easy walking distance of the White House, formal event space, and old‑world hotel tradition.

Quick Verdict: The Watergate Hotel vs Willard InterContinental Washington

When The Watergate Hotel wins: pick the Watergate if you want Potomac River views, an active rooftop bar seasonally, a restored indoor saltwater pool, and a contemporary, design-forward hotel that still references its 1960s origins.

When Willard InterContinental Washington wins: choose the Willard for maximum proximity to the White House and downtown museums, larger formal ballrooms and meeting capacity, and the kind of Beaux‑Arts lobby and history many travelers expect in central DC.

Bottom line: both are five-star Washington hotels with strong histories; Watergate leans leisure-forward with river views, spa and nightlife, while the Willard is the classic downtown address for museum- and White House‑focused itineraries and large events.

Call +1 (888) 605-1350Book The Watergate Hotel

The Watergate Hotel vs Willard InterContinental Washington – At a Glance

Side-by-side facts for The Watergate Hotel and Willard InterContinental Washington
CategoryThe Watergate HotelWillard InterContinental Washington
Overall vibeSleek, theatrical, riverside modern luxuryBeaux‑Arts, stately, historic grand hotel
LocationFoggy Bottom on the Potomac, next to the Kennedy CenterDowntown, minutes from the White House and Lafayette Square
Size (rooms)336 guest rooms and suites335 guestrooms
Age / styleBuilt 1969; restored 2016; modern design updatesHistoric Beaux‑Arts landmark with traditional public rooms
PoolsIndoor heated saltwater pool (restored original; lap lanes)No on-site pool listed
Restaurants & barsKingbird restaurant; The Next Whisky Bar; seasonal Top of the Gate rooftopCafe du Parc (French cuisine), coffee shop/cafe, bar/lounge; room service (limited hours)
Spa & fitnessArgentta Spa with treatment rooms, sauna, steam room and 24‑hour gymFull-service spa, steam room, 24‑hour fitness center listed
Meetings & eventsMoretti Grand Ballroom and >27,000 sq ft of meeting/event space including rooftop optionsAbout 22,000 sq ft of conference space and 19 meeting rooms
Accessibility & family policyAll ages welcome; registering guest must be 21+; kids allowed in pool; pet-friendly (fee)All ages welcome; registering guest must be 21+ (min age listed); wheelchair-accessible facilities
Known forWatergate Complex history, river views, restored indoor pool, rooftop barProximity to White House, historic lobby and ceremonial events

A Look Inside The Watergate Hotel

The Watergate Hotel: rooms & suitesRooms & suitesThe Watergate Hotel: diningDiningThe Watergate Hotel: spa & wellnessSpa & wellness
See all photos →

Location: Foggy Bottom riverside vs downtown, steps from the White House

The Watergate Hotel – Location

The Watergate sits on the Potomac in Foggy Bottom, adjacent to the Kennedy Center and a short walk to Georgetown waterfront.

  • Adjacent to the John F. Kennedy Center (about a 5–8 minute walk).
  • Close to Georgetown Waterfront Park and the Mount Vernon Trail for riverside walks and water‑taxi options.
  • Rideshares and a 9–20 minute walk to Foggy Bottom–GWU Metro make attractions reachable.

Pick the Watergate for riverside access and Kennedy Center proximity.

Willard InterContinental Washington – Location

Willard InterContinental sits in downtown Washington within minutes of the White House, Lafayette Square and several theaters and museums.

  • About a 5–10 minute walk to the White House Visitor Center and National Theatre.
  • Within walking distance of the National Mall and Smithsonian museums (roughly 0.4–0.7 km to several sites listed).
  • Easy access to downtown restaurants, theaters and cityCenterDC shopping.

Choose the Willard for the most central downtown location and short walks to major federal sites.

Rooms: contemporary river-facing rooms vs classic downtown guestrooms

The Watergate Hotel – Rooms

The Watergate has 336 rooms and suites across 14 floors with many room types offering river or balcony views.

  • Room mix includes Superior, Deluxe, Premier and multiple named suites (Presidential, Scandal, Americana, Rose, etc.).
  • Several room categories offer river or balcony views and suites of various sizes.
  • Wi‑Fi, marble baths, minibars and modern in‑room amenities are standard.

Rooms at the Watergate emphasize modern design and Potomac or skyline views.

Willard InterContinental Washington – Rooms

Willard InterContinental lists 335 guestrooms in a Beaux‑Arts setting, with classic hotel room styling.

  • Guestroom count listed as 335; rooms include traditional luxury amenities and Tempur‑Pedic beds with Egyptian cotton sheets (per supplier listing).
  • Single on‑site restaurant and cafe provide nearby dining options without leaving the property.
  • Express check‑in/out, concierge and 24‑hour front desk services support downtown stays.

Willard is the classic downtown luxury choice with traditionally styled guestrooms and concierge services.

Dining & drinks: riverfront steakhouse and rooftop vs Beaux‑Arts French dining

The Watergate Hotel – Dining & drinks

At The Watergate, dining centers on Kingbird plus hotel bars and a seasonal rooftop lounge.

  • Kingbird serves modern Italian/steakhouse fare and weekend brunch; reservations recommended.
  • The Next Whisky Bar focuses on whiskies, cigars and small plates; Top of the Gate is seasonal rooftop seating.
  • Valet parking validation available for Kingbird; family‑friendly options include a children's menu.

The Watergate offers a lively mix of restaurant, whisky bar and seasonal rooftop with river views.

Willard InterContinental Washington – Dining & drinks

Willard has Cafe du Parc as its main restaurant plus a coffee shop and a bar/lounge.

  • Cafe du Parc specializes in French cuisine; cooked‑to‑order breakfasts are available for a fee.
  • On‑site coffee shop/cafe and bar/lounge cover quick bites and evening drinks; limited room service hours.
  • Bar and lobby spaces suit quieter, traditional dining and drinks in a historic setting.

Willard delivers classic French/American hotel dining in a formal downtown setting.

Pools & signature amenity: Watergate’s restored indoor pool vs Willard’s downtown services

The Watergate Hotel – Pools & signature amenity

The Watergate’s restored indoor heated saltwater pool is a distinctive, original feature open to guests.

  • Indoor saltwater pool includes three lap lanes and an aerobic area; pool access included for hotel guests.
  • Pool sits within Argentta Spa, which also offers sauna, steam room and whirlpool.
  • Pool hours and spa treatment hours are published by the hotel; children may use pool and spa access rules apply.

If an iconic indoor pool matters, the Watergate is the clear choice.

Willard InterContinental Washington – Pools & signature amenity

Willard’s listing highlights full‑service spa facilities and downtown conveniences; no on‑site pool is listed.

  • Full‑service spa and steam room are listed among amenities.
  • 24‑hour fitness center is available for guests.
  • Extensive concierge, meeting and event services are a signature downtown offering.

Willard focuses on spa, fitness and classic hotel services rather than a hotel pool.

Wellness & nightlife: spa, fitness and bars

The Watergate Hotel – Wellness & nightlife

The Watergate balances Argentta Spa and a 24‑hour gym with nightlife options on property.

  • Argentta Spa offers massages, HydraFacials and signature treatments; treatments are paid extras.
  • Fitness center open 24 hours with Technogym equipment.
  • Nightlife includes The Next Whisky Bar and the seasonal rooftop Top of the Gate.

Watergate blends spa time and late‑night hotel bars in one property.

Willard InterContinental Washington – Wellness & nightlife

Willard lists a full‑service spa, steam room and a 24‑hour fitness center alongside quiet lobby bars.

  • Spa treatments require reservations; spa and steam room are among the listed amenities.
  • Multilingual staff, concierge and extensive event spaces keep the property busy with daytime business and evening meetings/events.
  • Bar/lounge and Cafe du Parc provide more restrained evening options vs a rooftop scene.

Willard is suited to guests who want a traditional hotel spa and quieter, classic evening dining.

Who Wins? Best Pick by Travel Style

Best for river views & rooftop drinks
The Watergate Hotel lobby concierge desk with curved gold-toned counters and seating

The Watergate Hotel

The Watergate — direct Potomac setting, seasonal rooftop bar and many rooms with river or balcony views.

Best for White House proximity
Willard InterContinental Washington, Washington, District of Columbia

Willard InterContinental Washington

Willard — minutes on foot to the White House, Lafayette Square and downtown museums.

Best for an indoor pool & spa day
Desk vignette with vintage typewriter and stationery in a The Watergate Hotel room

The Watergate Hotel

The Watergate — restored indoor saltwater pool in Argentta Spa plus sauna and steam room.

Best for meetings, weddings & large events
Willard InterContinental Washington, Washington, District of Columbia

Willard InterContinental Washington

Willard — large Beaux‑Arts ballrooms and about 22,000 sq ft of conference space with many meeting rooms.

Frequently asked questions

The Watergate Hotel vs Willard InterContinental Washington: FAQs

See all FAQs →
Which hotel is closer to the White House?

Willard InterContinental Washington is located downtown within a few minutes' walk of the White House; The Watergate is about a mile from the White House.

Which property has a pool?

The Watergate Hotel has a restored indoor heated saltwater pool; Willard’s supplier listing does not show an on‑site pool.

Are both hotels family-friendly?

Yes. Both welcome children, though both list a minimum registering guest age of 21; The Watergate explicitly notes kid‑friendly pool activities and a children's menu at Kingbird.

Which hotel is better for nightlife and bars?

The Watergate leans more nightlife‑forward with a whisky bar plus a seasonal rooftop lounge; Willard offers a more traditional hotel bar and Cafe du Parc.

More The Watergate Hotel Comparison Guides

Explore how The Watergate Hotel stacks up against other hotels nearby:

Indoor lap pool with steps and lounge seating at The Watergate Hotel
Book your stay

Rooftop Views & Potomac Access

  • Lowest rate guarantee
  • Complimentary perks & upgrades
  • 24/7 concierge
Check availability Call 888-605-1350
Offer terms

Price comparison & offer terms

These terms apply to the price comparison, Lowest Price Guarantee, free perks and concierge service shown on this site.

How we compare rates

The nightly rate shown is the lowest nightly rate we found for The Watergate Hotel after searching every available night up to 12 months in advance, based on single occupancy (one guest). We compared that rate with publicly available rates on other online travel agencies (OTAs), such as Expedia, Hotels.com and similar sites, and show the price difference we found. We don't name the specific site each comparison came from.

Rates and availability change constantly. The rate for your dates, room type and number of guests may be different. The full price, including taxes and fees, is shown before you confirm.

Lowest Price Guarantee

Free perks & upgrades

24/7 concierge

General

BookResorts may change or end these offers at any time. These terms are in addition to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not affiliated with The Watergate Hotel.
Legal

Terms & Conditions

Last updated: January 1, 2026

Please read these Terms carefully. They contain important information about limitations of our liability and the resolution of disputes through binding arbitration and a class action waiver (Section 16), and our right to change these Terms (Section 18).

1. Acceptance of these terms

These Terms & Conditions (the “Terms”) govern your access to and use of BookResorts and any booking you make through us. By using the site or making a reservation, you agree to these Terms. If you do not agree, please do not use the site.

2. Definitions

“We,” “us,” and “our” refer to BookResorts, operated by SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. “You” refers to the person using the site or making a reservation. A “Supplier” or “Travel Provider” is the hotel, resort, or other provider that supplies the travel services. “Travel Services” means the room stays and related services made available through us. “Content” means text, descriptions, images, reviews, and other material on the site.

3. Who we are

BookResorts is an independent online travel agency that acts as an intermediary between you and Suppliers. We are not a hotel, and we are not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any hotel or brand featured on the site. When you book, your reservation is made with the Supplier through us as agent.

4. Eligibility & use of the site

You must be at least 18 years old (or the age of majority where you live) and able to enter a binding contract. You agree to use the site only to make legitimate reservations for yourself or for someone you are authorized to act for, to provide accurate and complete information, and to inform any other traveler of the terms that apply to their reservation.

5. Bookings & confirmation

All reservations are subject to availability and to the rate rules, restrictions, and policies shown at the time of booking. A reservation is confirmed only when you receive a confirmation from us. You are responsible for reviewing the rate rules (including cancellation terms) before you book.

6. Prices, fees, taxes & currency

Prices are shown in the currency indicated and include applicable taxes and fees unless stated otherwise; the total is displayed before you confirm. Our price may include a service fee and may differ from the rate offered directly by the Supplier. Currency conversions, where shown, are estimates. Certain taxes or resort fees may be collected by the Supplier at the property.

7. Cancellations, changes & refunds

Each rate carries its own cancellation policy, shown before you book (for example, non-refundable, or refundable up to a stated deadline). Refund eligibility and timing follow the policy attached to the rate you select. Service fees may be non-refundable. Failure to check in (“no-show”) may result in forfeiture of the amount paid, per the rate rules.

8. Your responsibilities

You are responsible for having valid identification and any required travel documents (such as a passport or visa), and for complying with the Supplier’s policies, including minimum check-in age, occupancy limits, deposits, and identification requirements. You are responsible for the accuracy of all guest information you provide.

9. Suppliers & third-party services

Suppliers are independent third parties. We are not liable for the acts, errors, omissions, representations, warranties, or negligence of any Supplier, or for the quality, condition, or safety of the travel services they provide. Any dispute regarding your stay or the services delivered is between you and the Supplier. Supplier terms and policies apply in addition to these Terms.

10. Third-party links

The site may contain links to third-party websites provided for your convenience. We do not control and are not responsible for those sites, and a link does not imply endorsement. Your use of any linked site is at your own risk and subject to that site’s terms.

11. Intellectual property

The site and its Content (excluding third-party trademarks) are owned by BookResorts or its licensors and are protected by law. Hotel names, logos, and trademarks are the property of their respective owners and are used only to identify the property being booked. You may not copy, scrape, or reuse any Content without permission.

12. Prohibited conduct

You agree not to use the site for any unlawful or fraudulent purpose; not to make speculative, false, or fraudulent reservations; not to use automated tools to access or scrape the site; and not to interfere with the site’s operation or security.

13. Reviews & user content

If you submit reviews or other content, you grant us a non-exclusive, royalty-free license to use, display, and distribute it in connection with our services. You are responsible for what you submit, and we may remove content at our discretion.

14. Disclaimers

The site, its Content, and the travel services are provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis, without warranties of any kind, whether express or implied, including as to accuracy, availability, or fitness for a particular purpose. We do not warrant that listings, prices, or descriptions are error-free.

15. Limitation of liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, BookResorts will not be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, punitive, or consequential damages arising out of or connected with your use of the site or any booking. If we are found liable, our total liability will not exceed the greater of (a) the fees you paid to BookResorts for the booking at issue, or (b) US$100. This limitation reflects the allocation of risk between us.

16. Dispute resolution

We want to resolve any concern quickly and fairly. Before pursuing a formal claim, you agree to first contact our support team at 888-605-1350 or support@bookresorts.com and give us 60 days to resolve the matter informally. If we are unable to resolve it, any dispute will be handled by the state or federal courts located in California, as set out in Section 17 (either party may still bring qualifying claims in small claims court).

17. Governing law & venue

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, USA, without regard to conflict-of-laws rules. Any permitted court action will be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in Los Angeles County, California, and you consent to their jurisdiction.

18. Changes to these terms

We may update these Terms from time to time. The version in effect at the time of your booking applies to that booking. Your continued use of the site after changes take effect means you accept the updated Terms.

19. Force majeure

We are not responsible for any failure or delay caused by events beyond our reasonable control, including severe weather, natural disasters, pandemics, strikes, government actions, or Supplier closures.

20. Miscellaneous

If any provision is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions stay in effect. Our failure to enforce a provision is not a waiver. These Terms are the entire agreement between you and us regarding the site.

21. Contact

Questions about these Terms or a reservation? Call our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350.
Legal

Privacy Policy

Last updated: January 1, 2026

This Privacy Policy explains how BookResorts collects, uses, shares, and protects your personal information when you use our site or make a booking. For the purposes of applicable data protection law, the data controller is SVH Tours & Travel Services, Inc. (operating as BookResorts).

1. Information you provide

When you search, book, or contact us, we collect information such as your name, email, phone number, billing and payment details, the names and details of other guests, your travel dates and preferences, and the content of your communications with us.

2. Information we collect automatically

When you use the site, we automatically collect technical and usage data such as your device and browser type, IP address, approximate location, pages viewed, referring URLs, and interactions with the site, using cookies and similar technologies.

3. Information from other sources

We may receive information about you from Suppliers, business partners, fraud-prevention services, and (if you choose to connect one) social media platforms.

4. How we use your information

We use your information to process and manage bookings; communicate with you about reservations; provide customer support; personalize your experience; send marketing where permitted (with the ability to opt out); analyze and improve the site; prevent fraud and secure our services; and comply with legal obligations.

5. How we share your information

To complete a booking, we share necessary details with the relevant hotel and room Suppliers and with payment processors. We may also share information with service providers who support our operations, with advertising and analytics partners, with our corporate affiliates, in connection with a business transfer, with authorities where required by law, and with your consent.

6. Cookies & tracking

We use essential, performance, functional, and advertising cookies and similar technologies. You can manage non-essential cookies through your browser and through our cookie settings. For more detail, see our Cookie Policy.

7. Your privacy rights

Depending on where you live, you may have the right to access, correct, delete, or restrict the use of your personal information, to data portability, and to opt out of marketing.

EEA/UK (GDPR): You may access, rectify, erase, restrict, or object to processing of your data, withdraw consent, and lodge a complaint with your local supervisory authority. We process data based on your consent, the performance of a contract, our legitimate interests, and legal obligations.

California (CCPA/CPRA): You may request to know, delete, or correct your personal information, and limit the use of sensitive personal information, without discrimination. We do not sell or share your personal information as those terms are defined under California law, so no opt-out is necessary. To exercise any of your rights, contact us at support@bookresorts.com; we verify requests before responding.

8. Data retention

We keep personal information for as long as needed to provide our services and to meet legal, tax, accounting, and dispute-resolution obligations.

9. Security

We use reasonable technical and organizational measures to protect your information. However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

10. International transfers

Your information may be processed in countries other than where you live. Where required, we put appropriate safeguards in place (such as standard contractual clauses) for those transfers.

11. Children’s privacy

The site is intended for adults and is not directed to children. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 18 without appropriate consent.

12. Third-party links & social features

The site may contain links to, or features from, third-party services. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of those third parties; please review their policies.

13. Changes to this policy

We may update this policy from time to time. The “last updated” date above reflects the current version, and we will provide notice of material changes where required.

14. Contact us

Questions or privacy requests? Reach our support team, available 24/7, at 888-605-1350 or by email at support@bookresorts.com.
About BookResorts · Independent since 1993

A better way to book your hotel

BookResorts is a full-service, independent travel agency connecting travelers to unforgettable stays since 1993. Detailed hotel information, competitive all-in rates and 24/7 concierge support, all in one place.

Est. 199330+ years
100K+Hotels & resorts
200+Countries
24/7Concierge
This is not the official website of The Watergate Hotel. BookResorts is an independent travel agency and is not owned by, affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by The Watergate Hotel or its parent brand.

Why travelers choose BookResorts

Best available rates

We compare rates from top suppliers. Taxes and fees included, no hidden charges.

100,000+ hotels & resorts

200+ countries and 2,000+ cities, from all-inclusives to boutique stays.

24/7 concierge

Real travel specialists to build, change or help with your reservation anytime.

Full transparency

Honest details on every property: rooms, amenities and policies.

Trusted since 1993

Three decades as a full-service, independent travel agency.

Secure & protected

Every booking is handled securely and your information is protected.

How booking with us works

Questions about a reservation? Our team is here 24/7 at 888-605-1350.
Full details in our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Lowest Price + Free Perks

UsOthers
Nightly rate
Price guarantee✓
No hidden fees✓
Perks & upgrades✓
24/7 concierge✓
Check availability

vs. sites like Expedia, Hotels.com and other OTAs ·

Book by phone888-605-1350
Book nowLowest rates Call usAvailable 24/7
Photo viewer