A Landmark with a Grand Beginning
The George Washington Hotel officially opened on February 22, 1923—George Washington’s birthday. Designed by architect William Lee Stoddart, the hotel was intended to give Washington, PA, a showpiece property worthy of its place along the historic National Road.
Funded through a community effort spearheaded by the Chamber of Commerce, local citizens purchased stock to bring the hotel to life. For a town steeped in history, this project was more than a business venture—it was a point of pride.
Architecture and Atmosphere
The hotel is an excellent example of Beaux-Arts design, with limestone trim, brick façade, and a commanding presence in downtown Washington. Inside, the attention to detail is breathtaking.
The Murals of Malcolm Parcell
One of the hotel’s greatest treasures is found in the Pioneer Room, home to the largest remaining mural collection of early American artist Malcolm Parcell. In the 1920s, Parcell created six murals for the room, each telling a story from America’s early frontier:
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The Conestoga Wagon
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Pony Express
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Pack Horse
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Stage Coach
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Lafayette Visits Washington
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Bradford’s Escape
Parcell himself lived in Washington, PA, in a curious white cottage he called Moon Lorn, named because the trees on his estate blocked his view of the moon.
Over time, he added new rooms and turned it into a romantic colonial-style home, which became part of his artistic legacy. Knowing this makes the murals feel even more personal—a true gift from a local artist to his community.
The Grand Ballroom & More
Beyond the murals, the grand ballroom—known as the “Pride of the George Washington”—has hosted weddings, dances, and celebrations for a century. With sparkling chandeliers, polished wood floors, and soaring ceilings, it remains one of the hotel’s most breathtaking spaces.
The Oval Room, once the foyer to the hotel’s attached theater, adds character and charm to this landmark. Everywhere you look, the building’s artistry and history are proudly on display.
Famous Footsteps
Over the decades, the George Washington Hotel has welcomed an impressive roster of guests. U.S. Presidents John F. Kennedy and Harry S. Truman both stayed here, along with entertainers and business leaders.
Bob Hope, Marilyn Monroe, The Beatles, and The Monkees all spent nights here while touring. Even the infamous Al Capone is said to have made a stop.
As I walked through the lobby, I couldn’t help but imagine those moments in time—political strategy whispered over coffee, movie stars passing through on tours, and local celebrations filling the ballrooms.
What You’ll Find Today
Today, the hotel blends historic elegance with modern amenities. Restored guest rooms offer comfort while retaining vintage character. Banquet halls and event spaces continue to make it a popular spot for weddings and community gatherings. Dining and entertainment options give the hotel new life, while its classic atmosphere appeals to history buffs and architecture lovers alike.
The Marilyn Monroe Suite
A Hint of the Haunted
Like many century-old hotels, the George Washington has developed a reputation for being haunted. Ghost hunters have conducted regular investigations, often focusing on the eighth through tenth floors.
Stories abound: the grand piano in the lobby playing by itself, disembodied voices echoing in the background, and the lobby’s paintings of George and Martha Washington seeming to follow guests with their eyes. Some visitors claim to have seen spectral figures drinking in Bradford’s Lounge, the hotel’s speakeasy-style bar. Even staff members have reported strange encounters—housekeepers spotting ghostly figures gliding across the floors and maintenance workers glimpsing shades tinkering with the old boilers.
Rest assured, the spirits are said to be friendly. If anything, their presence only adds to the rich heritage that has defined the George Washington Hotel for a century.
Don’t Miss: Washington County’s Covered Bridges
While visiting the George Washington Hotel, make sure to explore Washington County’s 23 historic covered bridges. Each bridge carries a story of craftsmanship and heritage, from quaint wooden crossings tucked into the countryside to larger spans that once supported the region’s commerce.
Want to dive deeper? You can read all about them in my blog post Exploring Washington County Covered Bridges.
My Final Thoughts
The George Washington Hotel isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a time capsule. From its 1920s origins to its famous visitors, from Parcell’s murals to its elegant ballrooms, it tells the story of a town proud of its place in American history.
If you find yourself in Washington, PA, step inside this local landmark. Whether you’re drawn by the architecture, the art, the history, or just curious to see what all the talk is about, the George Washington Hotel is well worth a visit. And who knows—you might even catch a glimpse of history that refuses to fade.
As the hotel celebrates its 100th anniversary, it’s also been officially welcomed as a member of Historic Hotels of America. Just 40 miles south of Pittsburgh, this Beaux-Arts masterpiece offers celebrity-inspired suites, seven unique event venues, a restaurant, and Bradford’s Lounge featuring local spirits—all just steps from the site of America’s Whiskey Rebellion.
For more information about the George Washington Hotel, and to explore other historic stays across the country, visit the Historic Hotels of America website.
Until Next Time!
Susan