On 11 acres in unspoiled Rock Creek Park the historic Omni Shoreham Hotel seems miles away from the traffic and noise of downtown. But hop on the subway or into a taxi and you're at the museums and monuments in no time. One of the city's biggest hotels the eight-story Omni Shoreham has an impressive brick-and-stone façade. The grounds which slope gently down toward trickling Rock Creek include elaborate formal gardens with a gazebo (often used for wedding photos) and a freeform outdoor pool (heated of course) where the friendly staff takes your orders for drinks and food. Amenities abound from a sit-down restaurant and several more casual options a fitness center with a sauna and shops selling everything from snacks to jewelry. Each morning you'll find a newspaper delivered to your door. The 834 rooms= are smartly designed and have plenty of space to spread out. Thoughtful touches include flat-panel TVs and iPod connections. Wi-Fi is available for a fee. For a little extra pampering call the front desk to arrange an in-room massage. The Omni Shoreham is in the mostly residential neighborhood of Woodley Park just north of Dupont Circle. Two blocks away is Connecticut Avenue and its scores of interesting eateries. National Zoo home to the celebrity pandas is a 15-minute walk north. Getting to the city's sights is easy: Hop aboard the Metro at the Woodley Park-Zoo station a four-minute walk from the hotel. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is about seven miles south. With plenty of peace and quiet the Omni Shoreham has an away-from-it-all feel. Its traditional styling modern amenities and superb service make it one of the city's best top-of-the-line lodgings.