A Historic Hotel Steeped in Legend: Discover the Washington Hotel in Princess Anne, MD
- Willie
- 8 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Looking to stay somewhere wrapped in history, hospitality, and a dash of mystery? The Washington Hotel in Princess Anne, Maryland is the place for you! Built in 1744 and known for generations as the Washington Inn and Tavern, this beautifully restored building has long been tied to one of the Eastern Shore's favorite legends -- that George Washington himself once stayed here during his travels.
Steeped in local lore, the charm and heritage of this historic hotel are hard to ignore. Today, guests can dine, stay, and dream in a place that feels like stepping straight into an 18th-century storybook -- one where the past comes alive with every brick, beam, and bite.
The Tale Behind the Name
In the days before highways and paved roads, the Eastern Shore was alive with travelers in carriages, on horseback, and walking the dirt roads that connected colonial Maryland to Virginia. The Washington Inn and Tavern, sitting right in the heart of Princess Anne, was one of the most prominent stops along the route. It's a cozy refuge offering warm meals, friendly conversation, and a soft bed after long days of travel.
Local lore holds that, while traveling through Maryland, George Washington stopped at the inn for food, rest, and relaxation. The story has been passed down for centuries, told by the community, past hotel staff, and even guests who swear the spirit of the past lingers in the old fireplaces and decor. The building's name proudly honors that night, standing as a tribute to George Washington and to an era when taverns were the heart of American life -- places where stories were shared, friendships formed, and history quietly unfolded.
Where History Still Lives
The Washington Hotel is a magical place that gracefully bridges the centuries. Thanks to careful restoration and preservation, the hotel retains its colonial architecture, historic details, and small-town charm, while offering the modern comforts that today's travelers expect.
From the moment you walk in, you can feel the layers of history underfoot. Old fireplaces, wooden beams, and cozy lighting evoke an old-world atmosphere that transports guests back in time. The hotel even features the "George Washington Room," a favorite among visitors intrigued by the Washington legend -- a space that invites you to imagine where America's first president rested his head.
Downstairs, Sugar Water Restaurant continues the original inn's centuries-old dining tradition -- farm-and-water-to-table cuisine, locally sourced ingredients, and menus that celebrate the bounty of the Eastern Shore. It's a culinary experience that blends comfort and creativity. From breakfast waffles to locally inspired seafood dinners, every dish tells a story of community and craftsmanship.
A Stay Steeped in Story
Authenticity is what makes the Washington Hotel such a remarkable destination. Unlike modern hotels built to mimic history, this one is history -- having been lovingly taken care of to honor its roots. Everyone who enters the hotel writes their chapters in the story, adding to the history and creating their own lore in Princess Anne.
Guests today come not only for the elegant rooms and warm hospitality, but also for the sense of connection that lingers in the air. Sitting in the bar, dining at the restaurant, or walking along Somerset Avenue, you can't help but feel a sense of continuity -- as if the past is just around the corner, whispering through the hallways.
Visit the Historic Washington Hotel in Princess Anne, MD
Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or a traveler in search of the next hidden gem on Maryland's Eastern Shore, the Washington Hotel offers an unforgettable experience. Come for the George Washington legend, stay for the hospitality, and leave with a story that's uniquely your own.
The Washington Hotel is where American history, small-town charm, and timeless elegance collide. Step inside, stay the night, and see for yourself why the legend of George Washington's visit continues to captivate hearts nearly 300 years later.