The Jefferson is one of Washington's better-known historic hotels, continually hosting politicians, celebrities and foreign dignitaries. Folks spotted comedian Bill Cosby in the lobby and listened to the music of Billy Joel when he commandeered the lounge piano. A hotel that prides itself on history, the Jefferson features an elegant Beaux Arts exterior and antique-furnished Federal-style interior. Original etchings and paintings, and even documents bearing Thomas Jefferson's John Hancock, decorate the hallways and public spaces. Guests can enjoy complimentary shoe shines, private dining, wireless Internet access in public areas, 24-hour room service, personal butlers and access to the University Club, the century-old fitness facility that features an indoor pool, squash courts, workout equipment, saunas - and membership roles with the names of Theodore Roosevelt and Richard Nixon. The intimate Jefferson Restaurant offers American cuisine with a French twist, while the lounge serves specialty cocktails, fine wines, cigars and daily afternoon teas.

The Washington hotel's 100 guestrooms are individually decorated with antiques, rich draperies and fine linens. They feature high-speed Internet access, fax machines and speakerphones, and some even provide canopy beds, armoires, fireplaces, and shelves of hard-back books.

The Jefferson is an intimate property where politicians, celebrities and foreign dignitaries mingle with the less-celebrated. Families, couples on romantic getaways and business travelers may find the Jefferson provides that certain flair to their Washington experiences.