I am generally a big fan of Kimpton Hotels. The Helix has some of the great features that characterize the chain, including: 1) very friendly service, 2) a non-standard, hip vibe, and 3) free wifi and minibar credit if you join the loyalty program. The Helix also has a good location in the Logan Circle neighborhood, and is reasonable walking distance from large parts of downtown as well as Dupont Circle.

A few areas where I felt the Helix didn't compare as well to other Kimptons:

1) the two rooms I've stayed in were spacious, but definitely on the darker side -- it's pretty evident that the hotel is an old apartment building converted to hotel use, and it makes the rooms a bit awkward feeling;
2) maintenance: while perfectly clean, the rooms are starting to show some age (e.g., water damage around sink edges, somewhat aged carpets)
3) the decor: people seem to love the pop kitsch of the Helix, but it felt to me like a 80s apartment building trying to cover itself up with cheap distracting decor.

Overall, I'd stay at the Helix again, but leaving aside location, among the Kimpton hotels I've stayed at in the area, I prefer the Topaz at a similar price point, or either Monaco if you're willing to spend more.

Decided to try another Kimpton hotel since I loved the first one, and let me say, this one was not a disappointment at all!!

This one is also themed, and has 70's decor throughout the hotel and it is done very tastefully. They gave me a bag of skittles and bottle of water upon check-in, which I thought was a cool touch.

There is free champagne around 5 in the evening and the food at the bar in the hotel is great!

The room was great too! I had a king size round bed with a shear curtain that wraps around the bed. They had an old school type tv and stereo system in the room to go with the 70s decor and cute chaise lounge to match along with the bright orange mini bar.

The service was great here too. I think Ive become addicted to the Kimpton Brand. I wish they were everywhere I traveled.

Parking is a little expensive and the cell phone reception was terrible, but I would still stay here again.

This is an outstanding property manned by an exceptional staff! This has been only my second stay at a Kimpton property but I will seek them out in the future. The hotel is lovely and upscale; funky and neat-looking. I had a lovely free happy hour with them. Everyone made you feel at home especiallyas they addressed you by name.

I come to Helix every few months for work and it is by far the funnest and most unique hotel I've had to stay at. I always look forward to their happy hour after a long day at work.