Kimpton’s Banneker and Lady Bird Rooftop Now Open for Stargazing on 16th Street

A Banneker Hotel guest room. Image courtesy: The Banneker

Kimpton’s new Banneker Hotel on 16th Street NW may have been written in the stars.

Named to honor famed surveyor/astronomer and historical legend Benjamin Banneker who made astronomical observations that established the boundary points for the District, The Banneker Hotel actually sits on the meridian line he designated. And his name is present throughout the property, like in a lobby mural by D.C.

Lady Bird on the Banneker rooftop. Image: Kate Michael

-based Nigerian-American artist Victor Ekpuk.

So it wasn’t a mere coincidence that the boutique-style 10-story hotel held its Grand Opening on Banneker’s birthday! To celebrate the birthday/opening bash, The Banneker made a commitment to highlighting other local rising stars as well, hosting a Black Artists of DC reception, tours and tastes with culinary brilliants, and live art demonstrations.

The new 144 room stunner (formerly Kimpton’s Hotel Rouge) underwent a rumored $20 million renovation and now has rooms featuring whimsical details — the North Star Suite has an in-room vinyl player — luxurious Frette linens and bathrobes, and abstract works of art from a variety of artists including locals Susana Raab, Lori Katz, and Aziza Claudia Gibson-Hunter.

Banneker’s Le Sel Restaurant on the first floor. Image courtesy The Banneker Hotel.

Unique in many respects, the hotel has two new culinary concepts and the Kimpton-brand features people always love — like a hosted wine hour, PUBLIC bike rentals, in-room yoga mats, and an on-property lending library and book club.

But to eclipse other stays on historic 16th Street, The Banneker also offers the neighborhood a coveted rooftop as the perfect place for a star party. (Or to gaze over those one-of-a-kind views of the White House and Washington Monument). Lady Bird — named for “Lady Bird” Johnson — offers its own nod to DC culture, with subtle design details reminding of the wood thrush, the District’s official bird.

The Banneker Hotel and Lady Bird are now open at 1315 16th Street NW.