My first visit to Washington DC was three years ago, on a day trip from New York City. Back then I thought it was my only chance visiting the capital of the USA, so I didn’t wanna miss it. Looking back at it now, such organized day trips, with limited time for yourself to explore, it’s not my thing at all.
So when I started planning my most recent USA trip through parts of Eastern Canada and the US, I immediately added Washington DC to my itinerary, to properly explore the US capital this time.
Looking for Washington DC accommodation, I came across The Wharf District, which I had never heard of before. It looked like a fun district to have my hotel. The Intercontinental Washington DC – The Wharf caught my eye and I was convinced to make this my base while visiting Washington.
Location Intercontinental Washington DC – The Wharf
For me, the location of the Intercontinental at the Wharf was just perfect. I arrived at the International Airport of Washington, and from there it was only a short, 10-minute drive to the Intercontinental, and very easily accessible.
The Intercontinental Washington DC and the Wharf district are located just outside the city center of Washington. From the hotel, it’s only a short, 10-minute walk to downtown Washington. Being located just outside the city center comes with a lot of perks: the hotel is located beautifully and perfectly along the river and the marina.
The Wharf district Washington DC
The Wharf district is the most fun and lovely district I have visited in a long time. Stretched for a mile along the Pontonac River, this district is packed with bars, shops and restaurants. It’s a busy and crowded place until late in the evening, and a great place to just walk around, take in the atmosphere and go out for some drinks or food.
One of the must sees in the wharf district is the Municipal Fish Market. This fish market is the oldest, continuously operating, open air fish market in the United States. It’s hidden between the Potomac River and the National Mall, and it’s DC’s hidden gem, but one of the best things to do in Washington DC.
Something I really liked about The Wharf District were the several food stands along the mile stretched district. From freshly made pizzas to Thai food, they serve it all here. There’s even a bonfire where you can roast marshmallows. In what other capital city will you find that? I love it!
Intercontinental Washington DC – The Wharf benefits
One of the best things about the Intercontinental Washington DC – The Wharf hotel is their rooftop pool. I visited early October, so even though the weather was still good, it wasn’t warm enough to use this lovely pool unfortunately. Next to the pool you’ll also find a terrace and rooftop bar. The views of the Potonac river and the marina are amazing from up here. Worth a visit by day and by night and definitely another reason to stay at Intercontinental Washington in the Wharf District.
Restaurant Intercontinental Washington DC – The Wharf
Located within the hotel is the Kith/Kin restaurant. Here you can experience the only Afro - Caribbean cuisine in the Wharf District. It’s an upscale casual dining restaurant. Kith/Kin is inspired by the Chef’s cultural roots and fond memories of cooking with family. While dining here, and enjoying the lovely dishes, make sure you also enjoy the scenic views of the Wharf District.
The Intercontinental is located in a busy area within the city so parking can be an issue. The hotel offers valet parking, so leave the keys with the staff who will park your car and pick it up for you upon check out.
River View Room Intercontinental Washington DC – The Wharf
I was granted a river view room upon check in. I was super excited to the views from my room and was rewarded big time!
The river view room is a very spacious room, with a large bathroom including separate bath and shower and a very luxurious amenity kit. The room is full of marble, which gives it a very luxurious look and feel. The room also comes with bathrobes and slippers, fabric shoe and laundry bag and even a small box of shoeshine.
The views from the balcony are breathtaking, overlooking the marina and the Potonac river. If you look a little further you will see these amazing views also include the Ronald Reagan Airport, the Pentagon, Arlington Cemetry, Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial. A sight you will never forget!
The Intercontinental Washington DC – The Wharf review
The Wharf and the Intercontinental are surrounded by landmarks. From the Pentagon and Ronald Reagan Airport, to the memorials at the National Mall. It’s a unique place to stay, where you can both visit the capital city of the USA and unwind and relax along the river and the marina. Also indulge yourself in the amazing The Wharf Spa, you won't regret it.
The Intercontinental Washington DC – The Wharf is your perfect base when visiting the capital of the USA. The Wharf district is a lovely area, full of restaurants and bars and a fun way to end a day of exploring the capital.
Curious to this hotel, or want to start booking? Make sure you check their rates here. If you decide to book, try to get a river view room, it is totally worth it, and such a relaxed feeling and views in the capital of the US.
Travel writer and valued Traveltomtom team member Ashley stayed at Intercontinental Washington DC – The Wharf, while traveling in the USA, on behalf of Traveltomtom she wrote this review about her stay. Read more about her trip and the places Ashley stayed at in Autumn 2019: Sofitel Philadelphia, Arowhon Pines Resort in Canada, Sheraton Montreal and many more.