Omni Shoreham Hotel

A Legacy of Landmark Moments in Washington, D.C.

For nearly a century, Omni Shoreham Hotel has set the stage for Washington’s most storied moments. From inaugural balls and legendary entertainers to historic political gatherings and iconic cultural milestones, our grand hotel continues to be a timeless backdrop for celebrations, history, and unforgettable stays.

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Since opening in 1930, Omni Shoreham Hotel has welcomed presidents, world-renowned performers, sports legends, diplomats, and generations of guests. Its blend of Art Deco and Renaissance design, paired with its legacy of cultural and political firsts, cements it as one of Washington’s most treasured historic hotels.
hotel exterior

Explore the moments that shaped the Shoreham and the nation

Journey through defining moments in Shoreham’s past and uncover how this coastal town played its part in shaping the nation’s story.

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1930

Omni Shoreham opens with groundbreaking amenities, including running ice water, fireproof construction, an indoor ice rink, and high-speed Westbrook elevators. From its earliest days, the hotel sets a new standard for luxury and innovation in Washington, D.C., offering guests both comfort and cutting-edge convenience.

October 30, 1930

Rudy Vallee headlines the sold-out opening night; weather delays limit his performance to just 15 minutes—yet the event still becomes the social sensation of the year. Society leaders and journalists flock to the Shoreham, marking it as the city’s newest center of glamour and excitement.

1933

Franklin Delano Roosevelt hosts his first inaugural ball at the Shoreham, launching a storied tradition that will continue for 70 years. The hotel’s grand ballrooms and elegant settings make it the epicenter of political and social celebration in the nation’s capital.

1938

“Hail to the Redskins!” is penned in the Blue Room, debuting that summer and cementing the Shoreham’s place in the cultural fabric of the city. The hotel becomes a hub not just for politics, but for music, sports, and patriotic pride.

1941

Yankees teammates surprise Joe DiMaggio in room 609D to celebrate his legendary 56-game hitting streak. The Shoreham’s halls witness historic sporting moments, blending athletic achievement with the hotel’s signature elegance.

1950s–1960s

The Blue Room hosts an extraordinary roster of performers, including Judy Garland, Aretha Franklin, Benny Goodman, Peggy Lee, Eartha Kitt, Tony Bennett, and Bob Hope. Its stage becomes synonymous with world-class entertainment, drawing audiences from across the city.

1964

The Beatles stay at the Shoreham during their first U.S. visit; their handwritten set list is now proudly displayed in the lobby. The hotel becomes a destination for cultural icons, capturing moments that resonate far beyond Washington, D.C.

Mid-20th Century

President Harry Truman frequents the Shoreham, joining poker nights with senators and even the doorkeeper of the House. The hotel balances political gravitas with approachable charm, creating an intimate yet prestigious social scene.

Decades of Cultural Events

The Shoreham serves as a premier venue for galas, society dances, debutante balls, and proms. Its grand ballrooms, elegant décor, and impeccable service ensure every event is remembered as a highlight of the social calendar.

Historic Recognition

Omni Shoreham becomes a proud member of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. Today, it stands as a testament to timeless elegance, hosting modern guests while honoring its rich history of culture, politics, and entertainment.

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