November 2005 Article                      

From the Field: The Willard InterContinental Hotel, Washington, DC

The Willard Difference

Located in the heart of Washington DC, the hotel is near government and business offices, within walking distance to several Washington theater districts, as well as many sightseeing attractions. From its inception in 1850, the Willard InterContinental has been a favorite choice of US and international travelers and a major force in the social and political life of Washington DC.

Julia Ward Howe gave words to “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” at the Willard and Martin Luther King wrote his historic “I have a dream…” speech there. Ulysses S. Grant coined the term “lobbyist” to describe all those who brought entreaties to him while he enjoyed a brandy and cigar in the hotel lobby. Every president since Zachary Taylor has been a sleeping guest in the Willard.

A recent multi-million dollar renovation has restored the decor of mosaics, marble and majestic columns to its Beaux-Arts splendor, while adding all of the amenities expected by today's business traveler. The hotel keeps guests connected not only with high-speed Internet access but also with access to over 150 international newspapers upon request.

The Basics

• The hotel has 334 guest rooms and 40 suites, decorated in a historic Victorian style fabrics and furniture.
   

• Suites range in size from 600-2200 square feet.
   

• Two restaurants and the famous Round Robin Bar where Henry Clay introduced Washington to the mint julep. The Willard Room is fine dining and can be used for group banquet functions, breakfast or lunch. Café 1401 is casual dining and offers some unique seating options in Peacock alley.
   

• 19,891 square feet of meeting space breaking down into 16 separate meeting rooms.
   

• The meeting space is located on the first and second floors as well as the Mezzanine levels.
   

• Major spaces include 2,176 sq. ft of pre-function area, 4,736 sq. ft. ballroom, and 1,960 sq. ft. Pierce Room. Other facilities can handle 10 to 250 people classroom style and 10 to 450 people for banquets.
   

• The spa and fitness center offers men and women's steam and sauna rooms; individual treatment rooms and a couples' treatment room with private bath; cardio and weight training equipment; outdoor relaxation deck overlooking the hotel courtyard; and a wide range of restorative massage, facial and hydrotherapy body treatments.
   

• Located 15 minutes from Reagan National and 45 minutes from Dulles Airports.

The famous Willard Lobby where the term lobbyist was coined.

For more information, contact your Krisam representative, or e-mail newsletter@theeventinsider.com.