The Inn at Dupont Circle
A Relaxed Setting Surrounded by Our Nation's Capital

by Courtney Caldwell

Front Entrance at The Inn

Finding the right hotel in a city in which you've never been can be at best daunting. Sure, there are the mainstream chains, which offer consistency like McDonald's; you always know what you're going to get no matter where you get it. And that's all well and good if the status quo is all you're after. But the big question is, especially for women travelers, is it in a safe area? Since safety is the number one concern women have when traveling alone then all the status quo in the world is useless if the hotel is not in an area in which you feel safe and comfortable. In fact, safety and security has become such an important issue that it's led to the rapidly growing trend of bed & breakfast use all over America.

One such place, hidden in plain site in the heart of Washington, DC, is The Inn at Dupont Circle. Built in 1886, this historic house still harbors a sense of history. The hardwood floors and wooden staircase creak and echo footsteps as guests make way to their rooms. It could take some getting used to if you've not been around wooden floors before. However, it's a small sacrifice for the excellent location and safe environment The Inn provides.

Nestled snugly between other historic DC buildings The Inn resides at 1312 19th Street, an area surrounded by nonprofit organizations and law firms. Trees stand erect in the brick laden sidewalks and black cast iron gates protect entrances and doorways. At The Inn, there is no key for entry but rather a combination, which requires your memory to be in good working condition. Owner Lydia Pena Simone decided that after too many keys lost by guests a combination would better serve as protection for she and her guests.

Sitting Salon and the 1890 Steinway

Upon entry, guests are met by a small sitting salon, which is host to an 1890 Steinway grand piano, which is nearly as big as the salon. The story goes that the Steinway was bought in a yard sale years ago for a mere $150. Later, its savvy new owner had it appraised and discovered the yard sale treasure was worth nearly $100,000.

Because of the Inn's age there's no elevator nor are there plans to install one. But that doesn't seem to matter to many of the repeat clients I had a chance to chat with while there. They loved coming to The Inn when in Washington with several mentioning they recommend it to clients, friends and family. In fact, it seemed to be all the little nuances and character flaws that made this home so appealing.

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