Gyde
Open prototypeProto
Back to all Washington, D.C. places

Washington, D.C., District of Columbia / Landmarks

Wardman Tower

A historic 1928 residential-hotel annex, now luxury condos, known for housing US Presidents and global celebrities in the Woodley Park neighborhood.

Open prototype Official site Get directions
Wardman Tower
www.lifeatthetop.com, og_image_www.lifeatthetop.com

What is the Wardman Tower known for?

The Wardman Tower is a neighborhood landmark and visual anchor in DC's Woodley Park neighborhood. It is particularly known for having housed numerous prominent figures, including Presidents Herbert Hoover, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Richard Nixon, and Lyndon B. Johnson.

What is the history of the Wardman Tower?

Built in 1928 by developer Harry Wardman, the tower was originally designed as a 350-room residential-hotel annex and is the only surviving portion of the original Wardman Park hotel. It has since been transformed into 32 luxury condos.

What are the architectural features of the building?

Designed by architect Mihran Mesrobian, the building has a distinctive cruciform shape consisting of four eight-story wings radiating from a central octagonal tower, ensuring all rooms have exterior views.

Is the Wardman Tower a historic site?

Yes. It was designated a Category II Historic Landmark in the District of Columbia's Inventory of Historic Sites in 1978 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places on January 31, 1984.

Where is it located?

The Wardman Tower is located at the southwest corner of Connecticut Avenue and Woodley Road in the Woodley Park neighborhood of Washington, DC.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Wardman Tower stands as a visual anchor and neighborhood landmark in Woodley Park, situated at the southwest corner of Connecticut Avenue and Woodley Road. Constructed in 1928 for developer Harry Wardman, the building was designed by architect Mihran Mesrobian, who envisioned the lobby and exterior as a unified whole. The structure is composed of four eight-story wings radiating from a central octagonal tower, creating a distinctive cruciform shape that ensures every room has an exterior view. Originally designed as a 350-room residential-hotel annex, the tower is the only surviving portion of the original Wardman Park hotel. It was designated a Category II Historic Landmark in the District of Columbia's Inventory of Historic Sites in 1978 and later added to the National Register of Historic Places on January 31, 1984. Over the decades, the building has hosted a staggering array of prominent figures. It has been home to Presidents Herbert Hoover, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Lyndon B. Johnson, and Richard Nixon, as well as Vice Presidents Henry Wallace, Hubert Humphrey, and Spiro Agnew. The resident list includes international celebrities like Marlene Dietrich, alongside Chief Justice Earl Warren and Senator Barry Goldwater. Today, the building has been transformed into 32 luxury condos, maintaining its historic prestige. The property continues to serve as the promontory of the neighborhood, as its architectural significance and association with political powerhouses remains a central part of its identity.

Visitor tips

  • View the building from the southwest corner of Connecticut Avenue and Woodley Road to see its cruciform shape.
  • Look for the central octagonal tower that serves as the architectural focal point.
  • Since this is now a private residential condo building, please respect the residents' privacy and avoid entering the lobby unless invited.

Nearby context

Located in the heart of Woodley Park, the Wardman Tower serves as a visual anchor for the intersection of Connecticut Avenue and Woodley Road, anchoring the neighborhood's historic residential character.

Sources

Evidence and links