DC is full of fascinating history. On an evening before dinner with friends, I took a walk and visited some hotels where the historic bars are never boring, they are intoxicating.
Hay Adams: Go thru the lobby and down the steps to the Off the Record, one of the closest bars to the White House. The scene is white house staffers, lobbyist and others of their ilk. It does not really matter which political party is in, they all drink. Its a little stuffy but great hand crafted cocktails.
St. Regis: Down the block, St. Regis Washington DC beckoned. With it herringbone floors and chesterfield sofas, I entered through an arched entryway to the bar. I had a Old Fashioned and settled into my club chair. What a great way to spend time on my own.