Best Extended-Stay Hotels in Alexandria

Opened in 1992 and renovated in 2013, this upper-middle-range all-suite hotel is one of the largest hotels in historic Old Town Alexandria. Embassy Suites has a seven-story atrium a solid range of amenities, like a heated indoor pool and whirlpool, on-site lounge bar and restaurant with an outdoor patio (room service available), business center, free local shuttle, and a 24-hour fitness center. Almost all of the 288 suites have a separate bedroom and a living area with a sofa bed, making it a particularly good choice for families and groups. Each unit includes at least one flat-screen TV and a wet bar with a mini-fridge, microwave, and coffeemaker. Premium Suites includes free refreshments and snacks, free Wi-Fi, and the option of two bedrooms. Already-competitive rates include free breakfast buffet (continental and cooked-to-order) and daily evening receptions with free drinks and snacks. Those who want to avoid parking fees should consider the Hampton Inn & Suites Alexandria Old Town Area South, located in a drab neighborhood two miles away.

While Embassy Suites is in the heart of charming Old Town Alexandria, this 213-room Hampton Inn & Suites is next to a sprawling eight-lane highway, a 20-minute drive to major attractions in Washington, D.C. Despite its drab and non-pedestrian-friendly location, Hampton Inn & Suites is a solid mid-range choice with plenty of free perks. Highlights include an outdoor pool, free breakfast buffet (but no daily reception, like at Embassy), and a 24-hour shuttle to Old Town Alexandria and the D.C. subway system. Suites and King Rooms come with full-size sofa beds, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, mini-fridge, and coffeemakers. All rooms have free Wi-Fi; Embassy guests must upgrade to get that perk.

The 252-room Hilton Alexandria Old Town has above-average style and a great location next to the metro in Old Town Alexandria. Its rooms are simply designed and adequately sized, with space for a king-size bed or two doubles, a plush reading chair, and a workspace with an ergonomic chair. All rooms come with a flat-screen TV, an alarm clock radio with MP3 connection, and a coffeemaker. Select rooms also include mini-fridges, and corner and deluxe rooms offer extra space. One-bedroom suites are available with one king bed, a separate living area with a pullout sofa, and a mini-fridge. Convenient on-site amenities include a fitness center, business center, and a full-service Starbucks, but there's no pool, free breakfast, or free shuttle service, like at our first two picks. The rates are competitive for the area and significantly less than in D.C., but daily parking and Wi-Fi fees (both free at Hampton Inn & Suites) can add up fast.