Aaron Shipman House

For more than a year while consulting for a DC client, I stayed at the Shipman House during the work week, flying home on weekends. The Reeds took terrific care of me, ensuring that I always had a room whenever my schedule became erratic, and offering me the option of starting each day sharing a delicious breakfast with interesting guests representing a wide range of states and countries. This is so much more than a Bed and Breakfast.

We can't praise this lovely bed and breakfast too highly. The restored old brownstone is filled with antique furniture and museum quality art nouveau prints. Our room was comfortable. The breakfasts were outstanding--home cooked, with main courses of fritatta, omelet, blueberry pancakes and the like, fresh in-season fruit, bacon or sausage, toast, a sweet roll or bread, and excellent coffee. The hosts join the guests at the breakfast table, and always initiate a lively conversation. They are helpful about travel needs, including supplying bus cards. The location, on a quiet, tree-lined street, is within 2 blocks of a bus stop and easy walking distance of a metro stop. A variety of excellent restaurants is within 2 or 3 blocks. We thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of our stay at the Aaron Shipman House.

I liked everything about my stay at the Aaron Shipman House, except for the very strong order of cleaner (pine oil or lemon oil- Pledge??) that was used to clean the room. Fortunately, I was able to air the place out a bit. I would recommend using some other cleaner that does not have such a strong odor. The hosts were friendly and the breakfast was excellent. The location was also good- close to transportation and restaurants. It was good value for the money. I would recommend the place.

[Resource Id: innkeeperresponse, Set: reviews]
We appreciate this guest has taken the time to offer their comments and are glad they enjoyed their stay. We have taken their suggestion and have changed our cleaning supplies, so future guests should be able to enjoy a clean home, without the odor of Pine-Sol. Thank you

With gourmet breakfasts, wonderfully friendly hosts and the best bed ever, our stay at the Aaron Shipman House was a true success. An added bonus was all of the tasty restaurants within walking distance of the B&B. And did I mention being able to walk to all the museums and other sites of DC? Fantastic.

We have had 2 wonderful days in Washington. Jackie and Charles are so delightful hosts. I wish, i could spent the whole day in their very awesome and cute and very special house. The breakfast with all the other guests in the dinningroom was outstanding, also our kids (10 + 14) enjoy it very much. I hope, during our next stay in Washington, Jackie and Charles have space for us. Annette Klinkenberg Germany

Aaron Shipman House was a true delight to stay at. The ambience and atmosphere of this renovated period residence provided all of the ingredients that we sought. Its convenient location to restaurants, public transport and the attractions of Washington DC made our stay so much easier. Should we be in a position to again visit Washington DC, we would have no hesitation in again staying at Aaron Shipman House. Dave and Karen (Melbourne, Australia)

My husband and I stayed at the Aaron Shipman Inn for 5 days while we attended a wedding and visited the city. The hospitality was wonderful, the room was very clean, and breakfast was always a feast! Jackie and Charles are so welcoming and helpful - When we were running late and could not get a cab to take us to our friend's wedding, Jackie snapped into action and drove us to the Willard! We also enjoyed meeting other guests at breakfast and hearing about what brought them to the city. We highly recommend this Inn if you are looking for an exceptional alternative to the standard hotel room! Thank you Jackie and Charles! We can't wait to see you again! Natalie & Brian

Several stays at this wonderful BB, always with grandsons, most recently 2 9-yr olds. Jackie truly welcomes children! Excellent breakfasts--good variety over several days, fresh fruit, dietary options--with gracious hosts & guests from all over world. Stimulating conversations, learn a lot. Hosts offer kindnesses & assistance that make one feel special & at home. Easy bus & Metro travel to Mall, airport, trains, etc.

I've always enjoyed staying in B&B's when I visit cities for the first time. It's a great way to learn personal recomendations of local favorites. I have to say our stay at the Aaron Shipment House was one of the best B&B experiences we've ever had. The innkeepers are warmly welcoming and I truely felt right at home. The little extras from the warm cookies that met us at the door every evening to the cool lemonade after a long day of walking through this fabulous city were met with much appreciation!! Thank you for welcoming us into your home. We all truely loved everything about our stay!! I feel as if we have made friends.... and will see you again the next time we come to your city.

Wonderful!!!!!!!Made our 10 year anniversary absolutely wonderful. Like staying with family.

Very elegant facility. Lots of art, breakfast was very good, prepared by JackY herself. She was the major value added for this place with her personality and knowledge of the area and her ability to engage all of the guests. She was a great education for our grandson. Jerry K

We were in DC to attend a meeting and I brought three of my physicians with me who had never stayed in a B&B ... not only did we all have a great time "camping" together for nearly a week ... we all look forward to returning for a reunion! I would recommend it without reservation!

I had stayed at the Shipman home before so I knew what to expect; this was enough to make me want to return. Hosts are very helpful with restaurant and "getting around" recommendations and go the extra step to provide multi-use bus passes for their guests. Bus stop is a block away, and takes one to the museum and monument area without need for transfer. If you are there in nice weather the gardens and outdoor seating areas are comfortable and inviting. Hosts were also kind enough to call to check on us when we were delayed by traffic. Great neighborhood for restaurants; if you enjoy Thai try "Rice" a restaurant 1 block away. It was very noisy, but food was VERY good and we had a delightful meal; in the summer there are a few outdoor tables, which would help the sound issue. If we go to DC again we will always stay with Charles and Jackie at the Shipman House.

We stayed on the second floor. The room was very nice. Our daughter lives in DC and visited at breakfast time. Kathy made her feel very welcome at the inn and at breakfast, as she did all of the guests. These innkeepers work hard to make this a nice place to stay.

Fantastic location. Lovely old house. Perfect hosts. Large, clean, quiet room. Couldn't ask for more.

The owners not only are on site,they eat breakfast with the guests,all at one table.They are very warm and welcoming!! The rooms and the porch are very inviting.

Lovely house and setting outdoors (nice double lot in DC). Only complaint: Would like to have been able to open the blinds in the room I was in. It felt very dark with rollup blinds that couldn't be opened.

Hosts were very welcoming and helpful. The breakfasts were delicious and the location was such that it was easy to get around town.

I stayed there two nights -- everyone was helpful and nice. The bed was very comfortable, the cable was good, and the breakfast was delicious.

My husband, myself and 2 friends recently stayed at the Aaron Shipman House in Washington DC. We were pleasantly surprised at the cleanliness, quality and overall condition of the house. We were in a great neighborhood, with many fine restaurants and shopping. We would all definately recommend the Aaron Shipman House to anyone traveling to DC!

This wonderful b&b is cozy, quite, clean and in a wonderful location. We rented the apartment for 4 nights. The apartment had all the needed amenities and was even child friendly! We were in town for a conference which was a 15 minute walk from the apartment. There is a very conveniently located Whole Foods just around the corner which is perfect for loading up the fridge. I'm just sorry I did not have time to enjoy the lovely gardens. But that's just a good excuse to come back! Thank you for the wonderful stay in your beautiful house.

I just loved my three day stay at the Aaron Shipman House. This was my first visit to a B&B and for hospitality, and genuine comfort, it couldn't be beat. Jackie and Charles, our attentive hosts, paid meticulous attention to detail creating Old World charm in an urban setting. Great location -- near monuments and museums, to say nothing of great restaurants and shops. The porch and garden provided a quiet nook amid Washington glitter. Breakfast was not only delicious but gave guests a chance to talk with interesting people from all over the world.

We found this a comfortable and convenient base for Washington DC tourism. The innkeepers provided helpful tips about museums, entertainment, dining, and public transportation. The inn is a beautifully maintained Victorian house located near bus and metro stops in a lovely neighborhood. Breakfasts were fabulous. We enjoyed our 5-night stay.

We have been staying at the Aaron Shipman House since the early 1990's. We don't choose to stay any other place. It is convenient to the Mall, bus service, and walking.

We enjoyed our four days at this house. The house was nice, the rooms clean and the location perfect from a tourists point of view. But most of all we enjoyed the host's hospitality, the wonderful breakfasts and the friendly atmosphere. We will definitely stay here the next time in DC.

We had a marvelous time in DC and staying at the Aaron Shipman House made it all the more charming. The owners are very sweet people. Their home is lovely. Location is perfect and easy access to walk places or take the bus/train. The home was very well maintained and the breakfasts were outstanding! Thanks, we will recommend this to everyone.

Breakfasts were delicious and always had freshfruit and plenty of coffee and tea. Our favorite place to sit and relax was the porch/garden area. Away from street noise and just a nice place to sit and relax after a busy day of seeing the sites.

We spent 2 nights in this excellent B&B (thanks to Steve), and the hosts, Jackie and Charles were very welcomed and helpful. Their breakfast was delicious and the homemade cookies left at the end of the day as well. The rooms are very cosy. Location is well situation to visit Washington. The Lucatelli's family from France

We enjoyed our stay very much. The rooms were very nicely appointed. Jackie and Charles were very generous in sharing their home and garden. They made a special effort to ensure I had a gluten free breakfast. Location is excellent. Our one downside is we didn't find the bed that comfortable, they adjusted but not our favorite. Jackie and Charles are interesting and helpful hosts.

Excellent location and amenities for the price. Highly recommended for both business and leisure travel. The home is superbly appointed and maintained.

Is a very nice place to stay and you will not be disappointed.

We stayed just one night, but it was a truly memorable experience. Everything was perfect - but most significant was the warmth and friendliness of the hosts (Jackie I think, and her husband). When I go to DC again, this is the place to stay!

we were made to feel like family in this wonderful house just north of the national mall. we stayed in the apartment downstairs, which was perfect for our young family. jackie and charles made us feel right at home. the beds were comfortable, the atmosphere warm and welcoming, and the breakfast very decadent. would definitely stay again!!

My husband and I spent three nights 4 days back in August at this B and B. We were so taking back by how beautiful it was. The hosts were so gracious and the food was so wonderful. We both had such a great experience we both wanted to stay longer. Sooner then later hopefully sooner we will definitely go back to this great place.

Charles and Jackie certainly know how to deck the halls! Our lovely stay at the Aaron Shipman House was only made more special by the festive atmosphere. Great beds, wonderful breakfasts, and convenient location were key to a whirlwind tour of Washington. Looking forward to visiting again (and again!)

We were visiting our son and the Aaron Shipman was just 2 blocks from his home. Everyone was lovely. The Inn was charming & welcoming. They had some construction going on but we worked around it. Would definitely stay again.

We stayed with Jackie and Charles for five days and entered a world of sheer elegance and victorian style. It was pure joy to wake up to the smell of breakfast coming from the magnificent dinning room.The food simply fantastic and Charles and Jackie's knowledge of DC amazing. Jackie's interest in her guests enjoyment of the city lead me to be able to see a very important exhibition on my most favorite artist. This level of concern for their guest is what makes the Aaron Shipman House simply the best stay ever, of my eighteen years of American Band Bs. I cannot recommend it enough.

had a wonderful time in DC! The B&B helped make my time there special. The sit-down breakfast and visits with the hosts and other guests was very enjoyable!

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay of four nights at the Aaron Shipman House. Our room and private bath met our expectations. The Select Comfort mattress was a new and positive experience for both of us. The breakfasts were healthy, hot, and delicious. We enjoyed meeting the other guests who were from the United States and many other countries. Jackie and Charles made us feel very welcome. We found them to be interesting, friendly, and helpful. We hope to stay at the Aaron Shipman House on return visits to DC. Steve especially enjoyed the homemade cookies left for visitors. Paula and Steve Sondreal

I have been a guest at the Aaron Shipman House for years and have enjoyed a consistently wonderful experience. The gracious hospitality, delicious breakfasts and overall character of the property never cease to impress me. The central location enables me to get anywhere I need to be in minutes. After a day of meetings, I can walk to dinner in the hip new neighborhood around 14th & P. The Wi-Fi is another plus. I'll be back! Andrea, Santa Monica

The Reeds made our stay at their beautiful B&B one of the most comfortable vacations we have had. The house is filled with treasures and beautiful furnisings. The hidden grardens were a special treat and the breakfasts were extravagant. We enjoyed good conversations over morning coffee and found the hosts and guests very helpful in planning our daily outings.The location is great-- very easy to get around by bus or short walks to good restaurants. I would deffinately stay here again. EB

My sink drain was broken, and the window in my room wouldn't close, letting in noise and colder air. Cheapish shampoo and soap when most good place have Gilchrist and Soames or the like. Average breakfast. House was restored, but still creaked a lot when walking and not to reference standards. Beautiful courtyard. Nothing was terrible; I've just been to better.

I almost hate to share information on this place for fear it will become impossible to book a reservation or the price may rise to the extreme. However, one must give credit where credit is due, and the Reed's, your hosts at Shipman House, provide a gracious and beautiful home for their guests. I stayed in the independent, garden apartment quarters so I cannot comment on the food, but the apartment was wonderful - nice, small kitchen, comfy and spacious sitting room, full bath, comfy bedroom, AND access to their heavenly garden. The location is wonderful - 'round the corner from great shops (an especially good chocolate shop) and restaurants (Posto is very good), as well as Whole Foods. In addition, it's walking distance to the White House.

The apartment was an ideal resting place after visiting too many museums and memorials. Comfortable cool relaxing with excellent facilities and exceptional hosts -- we would come back any time.

My daughter and granddaughter decided that B&B's are a great way to travel after the delightful stay with Jackie and Charles. The house is lovely and breakfast a true delight. Staying here made our trip to DC relaxing and so much fun.

Friendly welcome by vey nice hosts.

I am so grateful to an Italian friend of mine for finding this B&B and sending the details. We normally stay in hotels downtown for conferences and recently tried B&Bs and this one is by far the best we have experienced in the US. The friendliness started the minute we opened the gate. The house itself is a masterpiece and the results of years of devoted hard work. The hosts Jacquie and Charles were delightful and I really (corny as it sounds) could not beleive our luck. I felt like i came "home" each day after my conference and even missed one early morning conference session because I wanted to join everyone for breakfast. I know that sit down breakfasts are not everyone's cup of tea but the conversation was so wonderful and diverse each day that I wanted to stay and chat all day. The local advice and history tales were wonderful and appreciated as well. I will be back! Moreover, I will be recommending that all of my friends, colleagues and family stay here when they come through Washington. Thank you!

My partner and I stayed 2 nights on a brief visit to DC, after attending a conference and having some vacation time in the US. Charles and Jackie are a delightful couple, who literally make their house your home. The accommodations were comfortable and had everything we needed. The whole house is air conditioned and there is free wifi internet access... they also have a guest computer with printer in case you need that. There are plenty of good restaurants within easy walk and the hosts are very helpful when it comes to advice. The family-style breakfast is a punctual affair and suited us just fine. The outdoor seating on the back veranda overlooking their private garden is a pleasant place to enjoy pre-dinner drinks, sometimes in the company of our hosts and their neighbors - there is a fridge for guest use out there if you like your drinks chilled, and chilled water and ice is always available in the kitchen. Their private off-street parking is essential in Washington DC. We will happily stay there again. Their area of Washington DC is very well kept and peaceful - it all makes for a pleasant stay.

The inn was a wonderful experience. Warm and friendly home with easy access to public transportation and restaurants. Highly recommend this B&B.

Fantastic restored home with gracious, caring hosts. special experience for all!

The friendliness of our hosts was edxcellent!

By far the finest property we stayed at during our trip through DC, Williamsburg and Charlottsville areas. Beautiful period house with wireless access, gym equipment and easy walk to restaurants and Metro. The attached porch and lawn was a lovely oasis in the stretch of great row houses. Rooms are clean and bathroom spotless!!. Owners were available, friendly and helpful. Well will be back for sure.

beautiful townhouse in lovely neighborhood of d.c. not far from metro, bus, cities,restaurants.beautiful lounges and parlors. great beds

Our stay was enjoyable, casual, and convenient. We recommend it.

Wonderful location; delightful hosts; lively breakfast conversation among international guests.

Our room was cozy, the service was friendly, but the breakfast was fairly bland and disappointing---especially when no effort was made to refill an empty coffee pot...

Hospitality was outstanding in a lovely restored Victorian setting. Would recommend highly to anyone wishing a lovely homelike setting.

Charming hosts, great food, beautiful accommodations, a wonderful yard and garden. Conveniently located near downtown DC's star attractions. What all B&B experiences should be like.

Stayed 3 nights during a business trip as an alternative to hotel. Beautiful room furnished with antiques and comfortable bed. Feels more like home than a sterile hotel environment. My early appointments precluded breakfast except on one day, but coffee and cereal were provided. Nice social breakfast with good food and conversation with other guests. Did not have time to completely explore the place, but will go back.