Here's a closer look at Washington, D.C.'s newest eateries, drinking spots, hotels, conference areas, private rooms, and other spaces available for events this summer. The new and renovated Washington, D.C.-area venues are available for corporate parties, weddings, fundraisers, outdoor functions, business dinners, team-building activities, conferences, meetings, and more.
Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.
Back in 2023, we highlighted the Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.'s transformation of its famous Peacock Alley and Crystal Room. This time, the storied hotel has unveiled upgrades to 335 guest rooms, 69 suites, and 14 signature suites. Led by Parker-Torres Design, the project draws inspiration from the hotel’s rich legacy as a backdrop to several pivotal moments in American history. The restored signature suites pay tribute to historic figures like John F. Kennedy, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Guests will find crystal chandeliers, intricate crown moldings, jewel tones, elegant draperies, hardwood flooring, and custom wool rugs to preserve the hotel's historic character, all complemented by modern accents like abstract paintings.
Photo: Courtesy of Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.
National Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum has reopened popular galleries like "Boeing Milestones of Flight" and "Barron Hilton Pioneers of Flight," as well as the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater (pictured) and the National Mall entrance on Jefferson Drive. That means event rentals are available; the event rental fee includes use of the museum's first and second floors, its in-house special event lighting, and facility services such as security, housekeeping, and support from the Office of Special Events. The museum can accommodate up to 1,200 guests for a reception and 250 for a seated dinner. The museum continues to undergo a monumental, multiyear renovation, which began in 2018 and includes redesigning all 20 galleries and a complete refacing of the exterior cladding. The entire project will be completed July 1, 2026, when the remaining seven galleries open in time for the 50th anniversary of the museum’s building in Washington and the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Photo: Courtesy of Smithsonian Institution
Mint House Washington, D.C.
Hospitality operator Mint House has opened Mint House Washington, D.C., just blocks away from the White House and National Mall inside a restored 1926 landmark building. The property offers 85 apartment-style suites, full kitchens, spacious living areas, and a dedicated boardroom. Planners can use the property for dinner parties, team-building activities, networking events, corporate retreats, and more. Meeting spaces can be paired with discounted guest room blocks. Outside caterers are welcome.
Photo: Courtesy of Mint House LLC
Bar Chinois
In May, D.C. French-Chinese fusion restaurant and bar, Bar Chinois, opened a new location in Northern Virginia at National Landing. The new space offers indoor seating for up to 90, as well as outdoor seating for 58 and a private dining room (pictured) that seats 10. The restaurant is also available for buyouts and semiprivate events. Expect fan-favorite dishes from its flagship in D.C., plus an ever-evolving creative cocktail and wine list. For those just looking for a post-meeting hangout, note its standout happy hour offerings with dollar dumplings and half-priced cocktails from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Photo: David Madison Photography
C&O Restaurant & Lounge
The recently opened Canal House of Georgetown, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, has debuted the C&O Restaurant & Lounge. Expect a chic atmosphere, shades of deep green and mood lighting, and cuisine featuring traditional flavors of the region. Guests can also dine in the outdoor courtyard equipped with a center firepit and surrounding heaters. The new restaurant is situated just steps from its namesake, the iconic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal.
Photo: Courtesy of Canal House of Georgetown
Hyatt House Washington DC Downtown Convention Center
The former Cambria in Shaw, adjacent to the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, has been reflagged under the Hyatt portfolio. Now called Hyatt House Washington DC Downtown Convention Center, the 184-room hotel, which opened in July, began a comprehensive property-wide renovation in the spring. Amenities include a fitness center, bar and lounge, and meeting rooms. Later this fall, the hotel will debut an all-weather, 157-seat rooftop bar and lounge, offering 360-degree views of the D.C. skyline. Featuring craft cocktails and small plates, the venue aims to become a new destination in Shaw’s already thriving culinary and nightlife scene.
Photo: Courtesy of Hyatt House Washington DC Downtown Convention Center
