My roommate and I booked the Madera for labor day weekend and loved it! This is my third stay at a Kimpton Hotel, but my first at the Madera. I chose this hotel because of its location, reputation for hospitality, and because it is pet friendly.
We arrived and tried to find parking around the block, but didn't see anything. The man who checked us in offered us his parking space since he was getting off soon and we would be parked there all weekend. We were shocked to find such nice people! I don't think that they usually do this, but it was a really nice gesture!
Our dog is 60lbs., and frankly we were concerned about her staying in the hotel. We let the hotel know that she was coming, and they had a welcome sign in the lobby, and water and food bowls in the room. There was also a "doggie bed", but it was big enough for one of her toys. The bell hop appologized for this, but we didn't mind.
The hotel lobby wasn't much, but the room was spacious, clean and had new furnishings. We especially loved the aveda amenities and the mini bar full of upscale spoil-me treats. My friend LOVED the bed! It was very comfortable with down everything, and had amazing pillows! I think that I am going to buy some off the website...
It was my friend's birthday, and I mentioned this to the hotel before my arrival. They sent me a list of items to surprise her with (champagne, wine, roses, chocolates, beer, etc.), but I didn't get this email until I got back. To my surprise they had a nice bottle of wine, water and dried fruits waiting us in the room. The dog had a welcome biscuit and baggies too. All of this was complimentary! Last but not least, the hotel staff signed a birthday card for her and delivered it to the room. Nice touch!
Overall I really enjoyed my stay at the Madera. The staff really went out of their way to welcome us and the dog. We also enjoyed the complimentary starbucks in the morning, and wine in the evening. There was also milk and cookies in the evenings, but we never made it to that. My only complaint was that Dupont Circle was a little boring (but close to the metro), the lobby was small, and $35 a day for parking was a little high. However, they did have packages that included parking, or if you had a hybrid it's free. Despite my small complaints, I would definitely stay here or at any other Kimpton hotel since they staff is so inviting and the beds are fantastic.














