This Kimpton hotel themes itself as “conscious living” and its name, Madera, is Spanish for “wood.” It is an eco-friendly, Green Seal-certified hotel, and it was a pioneer on green initiatives for Kimpton hotels nationwide. The small, boutique hotel has soap and shampoo pumps instead of bottles in the bathroom showers, motion-sensor lights, and free parking for hybrid cars.
They also pride themselves as being a “home away from home.” This means that you can request things ahead of time—like a certain kind of pillow or M&Ms in your room—and you can enjoy free milk and cookies every night at 10 pm and hot chocolate in winter from 2 to 5 pm. You could also keep all of your toiletries at Madera for the next time you visit, saving the hassle of flying with liquids.
There isn’t a fitness center but there are cardio rooms you can request, with a choice of treadmill, elliptical trainer, or stationary bike.
Firefly, the attached restaurant, has made a name for itself separate from the hotel. The Firefly decor includes light-colored bamboo, hanging lanterns, and a bottom half of a giant knotty tree anchoring the center. The menu is updates on comfort food and parts of the menu change seasonally based on what local farmers can provide that day. The pretty atmosphere and the good cocktails makes for a great date night spot. Madera and Firefly will often run promotions for hotel guests.
Insider tip: Ask about the balcony rooms that face New Hampshire Avenue. They have a great view but we are told are still quiet, despite the traffic below, because of eco-friendly doublepane glass.
>> For ideas on things to do nearby, go here.
