Hampton Inn Alexandria/Pentagon South

The location worked really well for us, about 12 minutes from downtown D.C., with other restaurants nearby. Price and access to the monuments and museums were why we chose this place. The rooms looked worn and had cosmetic flaws, and the carpets in both the bedroom and shared areas needed better vacuuming and shampooing. With our three-year-old, we didn’t feel the bedroom floor was clean enough for barefoot walking. The pillows were flat enough that we had to fold them to raise our heads. Staff could also have been warmer and greeted us when we came and went.

The basement level showed the most wear, and the hotel is an older Hampton Inn that could use remodeling. The fitness room was limited too: one of the two treadmills didn’t work, and some dumbbells were missing. It wouldn’t be great for a full workout or a busy morning. If you can, ask for a room on a higher floor. Still, our room was clean, service was friendly, and the value near Washington, DC is hard to beat. Parking is free, which is a big help in this area. Breakfast had plenty of good options, and after 5 PM there were fresh cookies and a nice coffee selection. For a convenient, budget-friendly stay near DC, it worked well.

The good prices and no deposit were a welcome surprise. I hadn’t expected much because the hotel looks older and less appealing than some of my other options, but everyone has been kind and helpful. Staff greet me with a smile and say good morning. I’m enjoying my stay and would come back when I visit Virginia.

The room smelled musty, and you’ll want change or dollar bills if you plan to buy a drink. My travel agent suggested it for airport access, but there must be closer options: it was 45 minutes from IAD and 38 from DCA. I’m a Hilton member and this was my first bad experience. I wouldn’t recommend this hotel.