You already know that I am a big fan of Kimpton Hotels and their loyalty program, Karma Rewards. Karma might not be the program for you if all you are concerned with is generating points from credit cards and using those for “free” stays. However, if you value positive experiences, unique properties, and consistently awesome service and care, then Kimpton might be worth a look for you.
I frequently visit Washington, DC on business, and DC is a city with a larger than average number of Kimpton properties, soon to be 10, and that doesn’t even count the 3 hotels in nearby Alexandria, VA. This makes for a variety of choices if you tend to focus on Kimpton stays. While I will endeavor to stay at every Kimpton property I can, one has become a standout for me in DC, The Donovan.
Location
Located on 14th St NW on Thomas Circle, The Donovan is in an ideal location for easy access to many of the cities attractions. Just to the north on 14th St is a vibrant area with new restaurants and shopping venues. What’s happened along the 14th St corridor is near miraculous, but the dining and bar scene is solid. If you’re in the mood for something a little more sedate, just steps from the hotel is Post Pub, a quintessential DC bar that feels steeped in history…..and beer. 🙂
The Experience
Every staff member I have met across multiple stays at The Donovan has been friendly and helpful. They are “on point” in every interaction. I haven’t dined in the hotel’s restaurant, Zentan, but I have dined in the fabulous lounge upstairs, DNV Rooftop, which features some of Zentan’s food. Verdict: Yum! But even yummier is the whole experience upstairs during the warm weather months. It was busy, but not oppressively so on the early fall afternoon when I made my first trek upstairs.
Rooms are very comfortable. The hotel’s website calls its design “minimalist…that’s both sleek and modern.” That sums it up nicely. I’ve had a few sweet suite upgrades along with standard rooms across various stays, and all have been comfortable and efficiently designed. Here are just a few pictures.
I’m looking forward to future stays at the Donovan, and I will prepare a more detailed review along with photos of the gym facilities and rooftop area after it opens for the season. In the meantime, if you’re considering staying at The Donovan don’t hesitate to book it!!! It’s a great hotel in a great location and staffed with great people!
-MJ, March 19, 2016
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