If chain hotels leave you cold, try the Peabody Court Hotel in the famous Mt. Vernon neighborhood. Looking more like a ducal estate than a hotel, the Peabody Court’s lobby ties together espresso-colored furnishings, Gainsborough-style artwork and Queen Anne furnishings with an unstudied grace. In the guest rooms, ornate four-poster beds create a European feel, as do the painted red walls and framed Italianate art. The shiny gold fabrics contrast appealingly with the matte walls, creating a luscious feast for the eyes. The Peabody Court’s restaurant is a hidden treasure, a favorite among locals. George’s on Mt. Vernon Square combines the best of modern American cooking with classic French technique. With a wide selection of specialty martinis, George’s is also an excellent place for a nightcap.