In the heart of downtown Washington, the Hotel Helix sits close to Metro subways, the city's business district, fashionable Dupont Circle, the National Mall, museums and monuments.

The neighborhood's vibrant and funky culture of boutiques, theaters, nightclubs and restaurants attracts both tourists and local residents. Such sights as the Blair House (the vice president's abode), National Aquarium, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial and U.S. Capitol are two miles or less from the downtown hotel.

Travelers also are five miles and 27 miles respectively from Reagan National and Dulles International airports.

Folks sense this is not their grandfather's hotel the second they walk through the front door. Registration occurs at a pod, not a desk. The front glass doors flash happy messages. Bold oranges, pinks and purples splash the insides of this Washington hotel, which, following its pop art inspiration, features ultra contemporary furnishings and Andy Warhol prints.

Guests won't only enjoy an artsy feast for their eyes but the downtown hotel's pet friendliness, airport transportation, complimentary overnight shoe shines, wireless Internet access, 24-hour fitness room and lounge.

The Helix skips on having its own restaurant, but guests can find plenty of dining options in this restaurant crazy town.

The 178 boldly colored guestrooms feature Pucci style print carpets, art and photography, sofas, settees, oversized lounge pillows, cherry red and royal blue ottomans, and sheer drapes that pull around the platform beds to create cozy alcoves. The rooms also include bright green minibars and armoires, orange porcelain sinks, entertainment systems, high speed Internet access and Aveda designer toiletries.

A member of the Kimpton company of boutique hotels, the Hotel Helix is an intriguing choice for style conscious families, couples, groups and other vacationers who want to stay in a chic and hip downtown hotel close to top sites and business locations.