The Ritz-Carlton Georgetown, Washington, D.C.

What the classifiers highlight

Between the C&O Canal and the Potomac, this hotel occupies the old Georgetown Incinerator, keeping its red-brick facade, black ironwork and a 130-foot smokestack rather than hiding them. Rooms use a neutral palette with dark wood and all-white beds; a day spa and oversized marble baths round it out. Degrees Bistro serves New American food. Forbes rates it Four Star.