Millennials are the focus at the recently opened AC Hotel Washington, DC and National Harbor. The hotel’s waterfront setting provides easy access to more 180 diverse shops and eateries, as well as destination-centric local attractions such as the International Spy Museum and the Smithsonian. Indoors, groups will find high-tech conveniences, low-key fuss, and comfortable spaces to gather and get inspired. Here are five ways in which the hotel is bringing together style, unique social spaces and technology to meet the needs and expectations of today’s traveler.
1. Creative bartending – The craft cocktail trend continues apace in 2015, and the hotel’s AC Lounge features all-knowing bartenders who can not only conjure up a range of classic and innovative mixed drinks, but also serve as a go-to source for exploring the local area and discovering its hidden gems.
2. European flavors – A taste of Spain is on the menu at the AC Lounge, serving a range of creative tapas dishes in the evening. Breakfast at AC Kitchen samples flavors from around Europe, with freshly baked croissants flown in from France, hand-sliced prosciutto from a Berkel artisan slicer, and an assortment of cheeses, sweet and savory pastries.
3. Art & Design – Washington DC has a thriving art scene, and the National Harbor outside the hotel showcases public art by national and international artists – including the 70 ft sculpture “The Awakening”, created by J. Seward Johnson, Jr, which depicts a giant embedded in the earth struggling to free himself. The hotel itself has been designed to incorporate the character of the harbor into its interior. A rope wall hangs in the entrance way, inspired by boats docked on the Potomac River, and nautical accents can be found throughout the building.
4. Millennial essentials – Engaging the millennial traveler is high on the list of the hotel’s priorities and built into the design itself. Open-concept closets in all the rooms include integrated work desks and luggage benches. Complimentary WiFi, ample USB and power ports, and smart TVs that can stream on-demand content add to the tech offering.
5. Community oriented – The opening of the AC Hotel has created nearly 50 new jobs and more than half the positions have been filled by residents of Prince George’s County, Maryland. The property adds to the roster of new investments in the growing National Harbor destination, and strives to be part of the community.
