There is so much to love about the historic town of Alexandria, Virginia. While it might get overshadowed by Washington, DC – which is just 20 minutes away – it’s well worth spending at least a few days exploring everything Alexandria has to offer.

Alexandria is best known for its colonial Old Town. Take the time to meander around the cobblestone streets and red-brick sidewalks, and you’ll come across over 200 boutique shops, cafes, and eateries. Founded in 1749, Alexandria is simply brimming with historic sites, including Gadsby’s Tavern, a popular haunt for the first five US presidents!

History enthusiasts will love exploring Alexandria’s Civil War history in the city’s forts, museums, and parks. And if nature is your thing, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to cruise along the Potomac River and go biking in the Dora Kelley Nature Park.

Whether you’re in town to marvel at the George Washington Masonic National Memorial, get artsy at the Torpedo Factory Art Center, or shop till you drop on King Street, Alexandria will not disappoint!

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll want a nice hotel room to come back to. Luckily, Alexandria is lined with a wide range of historic hotels, artsy boutique retreats, and riverside resorts. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Alexandria, VA, to help you plan your perfect getaway!

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Where to Stay in Alexandria

If this is your first time in Alexandria and you’re looking for a quality hotel, you’ll be spoiled for choice! 

It’s no surprise that most visitors opt to stay as close to Old Town Alexandria as possible. Not only is this area brimming with cute boutique shops and excellent eateries, but you’ll be within walking distance of the beautiful Potomac River waterfront. 

Plus, there are a ton of great hotels clustered around the King Street Metro Station, offering easy access to Washington, DC. So, Old Town is your best bet if you don’t have your own car or plan on doing some serious sightseeing during your trip. 

If you prefer to be a bit more removed from the hustle and bustle of Old Town, you can always choose a hotel in the West End. As Alexandria’s largest neighborhood, there is no shortage of fun attractions in this part of town, including the Fort Ward Museum & Historic Site, the Dora Kelly Nature Park, and a range of award-winning breweries. Plus, Old Town is a quick 10-minute drive from this part of Alexandria.

For something a bit more artsy, Del Ray is your best bet. This is a prime area to stay if you’re interested in attending the First Thursday street festival, checking out the area’s colorful murals, or indulging in Del Ray’s famous brunch scene. It doesn’t get much cooler than Del Ray!

No matter where you decide to stay, you’re sure to find a hotel that’s perfect for you.

The 12 Best Hotels in Alexandria, VA

1. Morrison House Old Town Alexandria

Housed in a Federal-style building, just steps away from the hustle and bustle of King Street (Old Town’s main drag), Morrison House stands proud as one of the best hotels in Old Town Alexandria. With its luxurious details and mid-century modern flair, it’s impossible not to be charmed by this gem of a boutique hotel!

You’ll find literary touches in each of Morrison House’s 45 guest rooms. The standard “Illustrator” rooms boast writer’s desks with books, plush beds with luxury linens, 42-inch flat-screen TVs with premium movie channels, and Italian marble bathrooms with backlit mirrors. 

But if you prefer more space, the “Publisher Suite” is your best bet. Book this guest room, and you’ll get 388 square feet of space, a 55-inch flat-screen TV, a large workstation, and a sitting area.

With its Old Town location, this hotel is surrounded by a wide range of Alexandria’s best restaurants. But if you want to dine at the hotel, The Study serves up modern American dishes and creative cocktails inspired by great literary works.

2. The Alexandrian Old Town Alexandria

The Alexandrian Old Town is the perfect pick if you want to be smack in the middle of Old Town Alexandria. Not only will you be steps away from all sorts of bars, restaurants, and shops, but the waterfront along the Potomac River is just a few blocks away. Plus, this hotel is pet-friendly if you plan on traveling with your furry friend!

You’ll love the whimsical and locally inspired guest rooms. No matter which one you choose, you’ll get historically-inspired red and blue decor, herringbone carpets and pillows featuring historical figures, and magazine-worthy ensuites. If you want to go big, opt for the Signature Suite, and you’ll get a spacious living area and a massive bathroom with a two-person whirlpool tub.

If you’re feeling lazy, you can wrap yourself in the sumptuous bathrobe and order room service. Or, head downstairs where you can dine on seasonal Southern American cuisine at King & Rye. Don’t worry if you overindulge because there’s a 24-hour fitness center where you can work off those extra vacation calories!

3. Hotel Indigo Old Town Alexandria

Perched right on the Potomac, overlooking the DC skyline, Hotel Indigo Old Town is easily one of the coolest boutique hotels in Alexandria. Plus, you’ll be right next to the Old Town Alexandria Waterfront and just down the road from the Torpedo Factory Art Center and Founders Park. 

It’s impossible not to love the stylish rooms and their plush beds with leather headboards, floor-to-ceiling windows with city or river views, and spa-like baths with designer toiletries. You’ll also get handy extras like free Wi-Fi, in-room coffee makers, and mini-fridges. If you ask us, it’s well worth taking advantage of the hotel’s riverfront setting and booking one of the rooms with a furnished patio overlooking the Potomac River.

When hunger strikes, Hummingbird Bar + Kitchen serves up locally sourced gourmet seafood fare on its garden patio. Think oysters on the half shell, bronzed crab-and-corn fritters, lobster linguine, Chesapeake blue crabs, and so much more.

4. Lorien Hotel & Spa

If you’re searching for the best hotels in Old Town Alexandria, Lorien Hotel & Spa is a top pick. Whether you’re in town for work or play, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing and rejuvenating stay.

The stylish guest rooms are all outfitted with high-tech gadgets like free Wi-Fi, iPod docking stations, and large flat-screen TVs. Plus, you’ll love the plush beds and spa-like baths with rain showers or clawfoot tubs. If you want more space, the suites are well worth the upgrade for their furnished terraces with rooftop views. 

One of the coolest things about Lorien is that it’s home to Alexandria’s only hotel spa where you can get pampered after a long day of sightseeing. Explore the wellness center, and you’ll also find a fully outfitted fitness center and eucalyptus steam rooms.

Once you work up an appetite, Brabo’s Brasserie specializes in authentic French dishes. Plus, you can pair your gourmet meal with a hand-crafted cocktail or a carefully curated bottle of wine.

The hotel staff offers complimentary loaner bikes perfect for exploring Old Town. Other freebies include morning coffee and evening wine receptions, where you can mix and mingle with fellow guests!

5. Sheraton Suites Old Town Alexandria

Situated in Old Town North, Sheraton Suites Old Town Alexandria is the perfect pick if you’re looking for a home away from home. Plus, this newly-renovated hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to and from the Reagan National Airport, so getting here is a breeze. 

As the name implies, this all-suite hotel offers studio and 1-bedroom guest rooms. The stylish studios can sleep up to four guests and are outfitted with sofa beds, workstations, and wet bars with coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges. If you prefer more space or more privacy, the 1-bedroom suites offer separate living rooms and bedrooms.

The hotel has its own convenience store, so you can pick up drinks and snacks to bring back to your room. For something more substantial, Citrus & Sage is perfect for upscale American meals. After dinner, head out to the beautiful red-brick courtyard, where you can socialize around the fire pit or make your way to the fitness center for your daily workout.

6. Hilton Garden Inn Alexandria Old Town National Harbor

Hilton Garden Inn Alexandria Old Town National Harbor is an ideal option if you plan to do some serious sightseeing during your trip. You’ll be steps away from the boutique shops, bars, and restaurants on King Street. Plus, the King Street Metro Station is just two blocks away for easy access to Washington, DC, and the Reagan National Airport.

Standard rooms boast comfy beds with crisp white linens, workstations with ergonomic chairs, and large flat-screen TVs. Plus, you’ll appreciate the handy Keurig coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges. There’s also the option of booking a room that comes fully stocked with premium snacks and drinks.

You can have meals delivered directly to your room or head over to Garden Grille & Bar for delicious lunches and dinners. If you’re craving a midnight snack, there’s also a 24-hour on-site convenience store where you can pick up snacks and supplies. Explore the hotel grounds, and you’ll also find a rooftop terrace, a fitness center, coin-operated laundry facilities, and a 24/7 business center.

7. The Westin Alexandria Old Town

The Westin Alexandria Old Town is situated right in the heart of town, so you can easily spend your days meandering around Old Town’s cobblestone streets and your evenings relaxing at this luxe hotel.

The modern rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows with beautiful views of Alexandria’s historic attractions, 49-inch HDTVs, and ergonomic workstations with built-in USB ports, power outlets, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Upgrade to the Executive Suite, and you’ll get 758 square feet of space, a living room with spectacular city views, and a beautiful marble ensuite.

If you don’t feel like going out to eat after a long day on the town, you can order room service 24/7. Or, head over to the hotel’s Trademark Drink and Eat restaurant for delicious American dishes. Plus, there’s a convenience store where you can pick up snacks and drinks to bring back up to your room. If you need to work off those extra calories, the hotel also features a 24-hour gym with cardio machines and free weights.

8. Hyatt Centric Old Town Alexandria

Hyatt Centric is easily one of the best hotels in Old Town Alexandria, VA. Plus, it’s located right on King Street, and the King Street Metro Station is an easy 3-minute walk away. With its central location, you’ll have endless options for shopping, wining, and dining right outside your front door.

The guest rooms are some of the best-appointed in town. Even the Standard Rooms boast plush beds with 350 thread-count linens, 55-inch smart TVs with Staycast streaming, and luxurious bathrooms with Bee Kind toiletries and sumptuous soft hooded bathrobes. 

Go big with the Junior Suite, and you’ll get 450 square feet of space, a sundrenched sitting area with an L-shaped couch, and large picture windows overlooking bustling King Street below. Plus, the guest rooms are pet-friendly if you plan on traveling with your pup.

In the mornings, you can grab your favorite coffee beverage at the Lobby Bar. This is also a prime spot for pre-dinner drinks. Hyatt Centric is also home to one of the coolest new restaurants in town. Whenever you’re feeling hungry, IndoChen dishes out Indo-Chinese comfort food – from meat-stuffed dumplings to spice-infused curries.

9. Hilton Alexandria Old Town

Hilton Alexandria Old Town is set right across the street from the King Street Metro Station, making it one of the best Alexandria hotels if you plan on making your way to DC during your trip. If that’s not convenient enough, the free King Street Trolley stops just outside the hotel. Plus, the hotel also offers bike rentals in case you want to cruise around town on two wheels!

However you decide to spend your time, you’ll love relaxing in your newly renovated room after a long day on the town. All rooms come outfitted with a 55-inch HDTV, an ergonomic workstation, and thoughtful extras like blackout curtains, coffee makers, and Crabtree and Evelyn toiletries. 

If you’re traveling as a family, there’s also the 1-Bedroom Suite which offers a separate bedroom with a king-size bed and a living room with a sleeper sofa. 

In the mornings, fuel up with a caffeinated beverage and a pastry at the on-site Starbucks. Or, for something more substantial, King Street Tavern serves up excellent American comfort food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

10. Residence Inn Alexandria Old Town/Duke Street

If you’re in town on a work trip or are planning on an extended visit, Residence Inn by Marriott has everything you need for a comfortable stay. One of the things that makes this one of the best hotels in Alexandria is that all guest rooms are apartment-style, so expect all the creature comforts of home.

Depending on the size of your crew, you can choose from a studio, 1-bedroom suite, or 2-bedroom suite. The studios boast ultra-comfy beds, large L-shaped couches, designated workstations, and fully functional kitchens with a full-size refrigerator, stovetop, microwave, and dishwasher.

If you want to prepare meals in your room, be sure to take advantage of the hotel’s complimentary grocery shopping service. But if you don’t feel like cooking for yourself in the morning, you can fill up on the hotel’s complimentary breakfast. 

If you want to keep up with your workout routine during your stay, you can work up a sweat in the 24-hour fitness center. Or, runners and joggers will want to take advantage of Residence Inn’s custom mapped runs!

11. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott is a popular pick if you’re looking for places to stay in Alexandria that are away from the hustle and bustle of Old Town. Situated 4 miles south of the heart of town, you’re never too far away from the action, though!

You can start your day by digging into the hotel’s complimentary breakfast buffet, which includes scrambled eggs, sausage, oatmeal, fresh fruit, and more. Plus, the friendly staff will leave out free coffee and tea in the lobby all day long. If you want to bring snacks and drinks up to your room, there’s also an on-site convenience store.

Explore the hotel, and you’ll also find a state-of-the-art fitness center, a large indoor pool, and a hot tub. You’ll even have laundry facilities if you need to wash your grubby clothes.

The rooms have everything you need after an adventure-filled day on the town. You can have a movie night with the smart TV, get some work done at the ergonomic workstation, or take a leisurely bath in the tub. Plus, you’ll get handy extras like coffee makers, microwaves, and mini-fridges.

12. Embassy Suites Alexandria – Old Town

If you’re looking for the best hotels in Old Town Alexandria, you can’t go wrong with the Embassy Suites by Hilton. Not only will you be steps away from all the shops, restaurants, and bars on King Street, but the waterfront is just a short stroll away. Plus, if you want to explore DC, the King Street Metro Station is right across the street from the Embassy Suites. 

You’ll love all of the thoughtful freebies the hotel offers. You’ll get a daily cooked-to-order breakfast, a nightly reception with appetizers and drinks, and Wi-Fi. You can also take advantage of the large indoor pool and fully outfitted fitness center. 

All of the rooms are either studios or one- and two-bedroom units, so rest assured you’ll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. The studios boast comfy beds with HDTVs, living areas with sleeper sofas, and kitchenettes with coffee makers and microwaves. It’s the perfect place to rest up for another fun-filled day in Alexandria!

That completes our list of the 12 best hotels in Alexandria, VA! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Alexandria? Comment below so we can add them to the list!

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