Hotel Zena Washington DC

The hotel offers a distinctive and vibrant experience, largely defined by its prominent feminist theme and captivating artistic decor found throughout the property. This unique ambiance, coupled with its central location, makes it particularly appealing to sightseers and business travelers seeking a stylish base in the city. Many guests appreciate the hotel's consistent cleanliness, the comfort of its accommodations, and the generally attentive service provided by the staff. For couples and families, the hotel provides a chic yet comfortable setting, with the rooftop pool being a significant draw for those traveling with children. To make the most of your stay, guests often recommend requesting a microwave if needed, as they are not standard in rooms, and being aware of the seasonal availability of the rooftop amenities.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel features a popular rooftop pool and bar, which serves as a major attraction, though some guests note it can become crowded and is subject to seasonal closures. A well-equipped fitness center is available, including a Peloton bike, providing ample opportunities for exercise. Guests appreciate the convenience of free Wi-Fi, though a few report occasional connectivity issues. Rooms are equipped with coffee makers and mini-fridges, and guests value the availability of unlimited canned water or water dispensers on each floor. While microwaves are not standard in rooms, they can be requested. Other amenities include a pool table in the lobby and bicycles available for rent, which some find useful for exploring the city, though bike sizes may not suit all. Most guests find the overall facilities contribute positively to their stay.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests consistently commend the hotel's high standards of cleanliness, noting that both the rooms and common areas are well-maintained. The spacious rooms, particularly the king suites, are frequently praised, offering a comfortable retreat. Most guests find the beds comfortable with plush bedding and pillows, ensuring a restful night's sleep. The modern decor and unique bathroom designs, such as the distinctive snail-shaped showers or glass-walled showers, are often highlighted, though some find these designs less practical due to slippery floors, lack of ventilation, or the bathroom light illuminating the entire room. While generally quiet, a few guests report occasional street noise or noise from rooftop events. Some rooms feature blackout shades and offer pleasant city views, enhancing the overall comfort. A few isolated reports mention issues with AC functionality or minor cleanliness oversights upon arrival.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's main restaurant and bar, Figleaf, generally receives positive feedback for its inviting atmosphere and the quality of its food and drinks. Many guests enjoy the diverse menu, with specific dishes like the shawarma wings, crab omelet, and braised short rib often recommended. While the breakfast is described as delicious by many, some guests find it to be expensive with occasional slow service or limited hot options. The rooftop bar is a popular spot for evening drinks and offers a lively ambiance, though some guests note that drinks can be pricey and the area can become very busy. Overall, the dining options are seen as a convenient and enjoyable aspect of the stay, providing good quality meals and a pleasant social setting.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts an excellent central location in Washington D.C., making it highly convenient for exploring the city. Guests appreciate being within walking distance of numerous key attractions, including the White House, the National Mall, various museums, and the Convention Center. The proximity to a wide array of restaurants and shopping options further enhances its appeal. For those relying on public transport, the hotel is conveniently located near metro stations and bus stops, providing easy access to other parts of the city and beyond. While valet parking is available, many guests note it is quite expensive, and some prefer to utilize more affordable parking lots or street parking options nearby. The overall accessibility is a significant advantage for both leisure and business travelers.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentiveness, significantly contributing to a positive guest experience. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and courteous demeanor of the front desk team, who are often commended for their quick check-in process and willingness to assist with various requests, such as providing microwaves or offering local recommendations. The housekeeping team is also frequently mentioned for their thoroughness and responsiveness. The valet service is noted for its efficiency and the pleasant interactions with the attendants. While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few guests experienced isolated instances of unhelpful service or dissatisfaction with the hotel's policy regarding early check-in fees. Overall, the dedicated service culture is a standout feature.

Additional Information
A recurring theme in guest feedback is the hotel's guest amenity fee, which many find to be an unexpected and significant additional charge, often perceived as a "money grab" as it covers services like Wi-Fi, gym access, and in-room water that guests expect to be included. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by those traveling with animals. Some guests report issues with the hotel's smoking policy, mentioning charges for alleged in-room smoking or lingering odors. The hotel offers unique touches like free red apples and readily available travel-size toiletries upon request. While the rooftop pool is a major draw, guests should be aware that its cabanas can be rented by non-hotel guests, potentially leading to increased crowding.