Things to Do

April Travel Deals

Spring has sprung, and it’s time to get out and have fun. What better way than with an exclusive travel deal for Washingtonian readers?

Caption: Score $125 off a two-night stay at the gorgeous Tides Inn in Irvington, Virginia. Photograph courtesy of the hotel.

Play Along Virginia’s Chesapeake

Where: The Tides Inn, 480 King Carter Dr., Irvington, Virginia; 804-438-5000.

What’s special: The inn, with its magnificent water views, is a place where you can enjoy lots of activities–or relax. At the recently renovated marina, you can learn to sail; rent a kayak, paddleboat, or canoe; take a cove cruise; or go crabbing. You can play golf at the Golden Eagle, a course carved from the wooded landscape around a 50-acre lake, or take a bike ride, be pampered at the spa, or tour area wineries.

The deal: Receive a $125 resort credit for a two-night stay Sunday through Thursday. Rates start at $225 a night. This is a 28 percent savings off two nights. The booking code is Wash12.

When: Offer bookable now through April 30 for travel through June 30, 2012. 

Charm City Fun

Where: Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel, 202 E. Pratt St., Baltimore, Maryland; 410-547-1200.

What’s special: Located in the heart of the Inner Harbor, this hotel puts you within walking distance of shops, restaurants, the National Aquarium Baltimore, and the Maryland Science Center. The hotel has a fitness center with an indoor pool and whirlpool. Its Watertable restaurant serves fresh local seafood and produce. At the Watertable Lounge, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the harbor while having a cocktail.

The deal: Your weekend stay includes deluxe accommodations, a $20 food-and-beverage credit for on-site dining, and two tickets to the National Aquarium. The package rate is $269 to $399 a night, depending on the room, a savings of at least $50 a night. Click here and enter the promotional code P54.

When: Valid April 1 through December 30, 2012. Book by May 25, 2012.

Richmond in Bloom

Where: The Jefferson Hotel, 101 W. Franklin St., Richmond, Virginia; 804-649-4750.

What’s special: Richmond’s grandest hotel since 1895, the Jefferson showcases beautiful architecture and elegant decor, including magnificent Tiffany stained glass in the Palm Court lobby, a marble statue of Thomas Jefferson, and a grand staircase. The hotel has hosted presidents, writers, and Hollywood stars. Guests enjoy a free fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, evening turndown service, and wireless high-speed Internet access. You can savor spring at the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden with its dazzling display of orchids plus, this time of year, tulips, irises, roses, and peonies. Beginning April 21, put a spring in your step at the 79th Historic Garden Week. Other Richmond attractions include Monument Avenue, historic Maymont Mansion, the Virginia State Capitol, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.

The deal: The Bed and Breakfast Package includes a “superior” room, breakfast for two, and valet parking. Mention The Washingtonian and receive a free room upgrade based on availability when you arrive. The package price is $255, a 40 percent savings.

When: Available April 6, 7, 8, 20, 21, and 22 and May 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, and 27.