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.

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.

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.