Hotels

It's best to book your hotel room in advance. While you're likely to pay less than you would in Washington, occupancy rates are high, and prices can spike. Tourists coming to see Washington's cherry blossoms make spring the busiest season. December and January tend to be the slowest and least expensive months, except around a presidential inauguration. In some parts of Northern Virginia, weekend rates are less expensive than weekday rates (the result of frequent weekday business travelers).

Lodging choices range from familiar hotel chains to homes with 18th-century architecture blended with modern amenities.