Review: Hotel Zena Washington DC

Why book? Girls trips take on a new meaning at D.C.'s “future is female”–themed hotel, complete with with funky, feminist art and a souvenir shop that funds nonprofits around the world.

Set the scene The unique theme of Hotel Zena is spelled out in seven stories on the building's exterior: a larger-than-life mural of two women warriors stretches across Hotel Zena, painted by an artist known as Miss Chelove. Inside, the lobby and lower-level Figleaf restaurant is decorated with more art inspired by women's empowerment. The most talked-about piece must be Andrea Sheehan x Julie Coyle Art Associates's portrait of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg constructed out of 20,000 painted tampons. Needless to say, there's plenty of social media photo opps here, from a curved photo booth backdrop with 2017's Women's March in D.C., the city's biggest Lite-Brite and a wall covered with women's equality protest buttons. There are pops of pink here—notably a pink pool table and a pink punching bag in the gym—but luckily, the effect doesn't feel like a Barbie Dreamhouse. Like-minded nonprofits have taken a liking to hosting corporate events here, and groups in town for bachelorettes and birthday parties are often checking in at the glass case filled with high heels that serves as a front desk.

The backstory Viceroy Hotels & Resorts introduced Hotel Zena in 2020, giving what was once the Donovan hotel a total revamp and bringing in more than 60 original pieces of art created specifically for the property. The commitment to the theme includes a piece of shattered glass near the elevator to represent how women are breaking the "glass ceiling," and door hangtags for housekeeping emblazoned with the words “the future needs privacy.”

The rooms Aside from the soft glow of pink lighting above the headboard, the 191 rooms are decorated in creamy tones and furniture with clean lines. OK, there is a bit of pastel pink here too, naturally. The translucent, pod-like shower unfurls like a shell and is decorated with a mural of the Greek goddess Artemis. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide plenty of natural light, and it's worth it to spring for a Circle View room looking out onto landscaped Thomas Circle and the city skyline. The studio king room also offers a soaking tub, in case that's a vacation must.

Food and drink The lobby also serves as a bar and lounge called Figleaf, with an emphasis on serving alcohol from women-owned brands. Brunch and happy hour are the most popular times here, and there's a Latin-meets-Mediterranean flair to the menu (except for the double stack burger with turmeric pickles called a "Ginsburger" after RBG, who watches over the dining room). The pool deck, with cabanas, mojitos at the bar, and a sweeping view of the city, is home to Hedy's Lounge in the summer months

The neighborhood/area Located right on Thomas Circle, the hotel is at the base of the 14th Street and Logan Circle area. This neighborhood is now a mix of national chain shops, indie boutiques, ambitious restaurants, and arts venues. You could spend an entire day shopping, dining and exploring here. But you're also right on the edge of downtown D.C. and an easy commute (or even bike ride) to the National Mall's museums and monuments.

The service The friendly font desk team can hook you up with unique amenities from the hotel's shop (AKA the Z Shed). That could be a Polaroid camera, board games, bike and helmet with lock, or pool necessities. You can also shop for souvenirs from Hotel Zena partners like clothing from Sudara, a brand designed to help lift women in India out of poverty.

For families Hotel Zena's V Team Kids program will keep kids busy without leaving the hotel. Start with an art scavenger hunt map (available at the front desk, with a prize at the end) and then borrow photography kits, musical instruments, paint by number or books from a "book butler." Sign up in advance for a baking class for little pastry chefs, held on Saturday afternoons in the lobby.

Eco effort Plenty of green approaches are in play here, like smart thermostats in guest rooms, refillable toiletries, non-toxic cleaning products for housekeeping, motion sensor lighting, and key cards made with recycled materials.

Accessibility Find accessible rooms with roll-in showers and ADA tubs.

Anything left to mention? The theme is not for everyone (the clientele might be self-selecting) but those who are all in really like it.