4 Best Hotels in Prince George's County, Maryland

Loftlike spaces, dramatic art, and lounge seating in the second-floor lobby create a minimalistic atmosphere more like a nightclub than your standard Marriott hotel. Rooms are simple yet elegant, in shades of white, gray, and taupe, with platform beds and contemporary touches. A fire pit on the lobby's patio burns year-round.

Guests at this larger-than-life resort can dine, shop, get pampered, and even go clubbing without ever leaving the property, which anchors the National Harbor waterfront and, with about a 25-minute ride to the National Mall, provides an alternative to the more expensive options downtown. Room balconies opening onto the 220-foot-high glass atrium are a good place to watch the nightly dancing-fountain show in the massive lobby below. An ice-sculpture show is hosted here every winter. A daily resort fee includes Wi-Fi, access to the fitness center and pool, unlimited bottled water, rides on the National Harbor Circulator shuttle, unlimited calls within the United States, and daily newspaper delivery.

Renovated in 2004, the center is a certified green building, with an air-conditioning system that is chlorofluorocarbon free. Its location near the University of Maryland makes it a natural place to stay for visiting parents, complete with warmly appointed and spacious guest rooms.

This business-district hotel caters to a corporate crowd, but it's also a convenient roosting spot for visitors to Six Flags and other sights in suburban Maryland. Recently renovated rooms come with Marriott's standard decor and include a couch and large desk. Black-and-white photos add a touch of personality. Guests can indulge in a hot breakfast every morning or take a daily dip in the on-site pool. Prices for the basic rooms drop below $100 on weekends.