Play Ball
Where: The George, 15 E St., NW; 202-347-4200.
What’s special: This newly renovated boutique hotel features a bold, bright style with marble bathrooms, luxury bedding, and plenty of references to American history—such as wallpaper printed with George Washington’s inaugural address and custom accent pillows inspired by his uniform. The hotel is ideal for locals who want to spend a night in DC or for guests arriving at Union Station. It’s within walking distance of the Capitol, one block from Union Station and its Metro stop, and close to the Mall and the Smithsonian museums. Enjoy the free evening wine hour and complimentary internet access for Kimpton InTouch guest-loyalty members (it’s free to sign up online).
The deal: The Washington Nationals Package includes accommodations, two tickets to that night’s baseball game at Nationals Park (section 109, row RR, seats 25 and 26—a $62 value), and transportation in a private car to the game (a $20 value). Mention Washingtonian.com when booking to also receive a free six-pack of locally brewed DC Brau beer upon check-in. Package rates start at $159 a night. The reservation must be prepaid and is nonrefundable. Only one package available per home game. Book using the rate code PNATS on The George’s website or calling 800-546-7866.
When: Valid through June 2014.
Nature Done Right
Where: Skyland Resort, Skyline Dr., Luray, Va.; 540-999-2211.
What’s special: On the highest point of Skyline Drive—3,680 feet up—sits Skyland Resort with its magnificent views. Forget about wi-fi and enjoy the serenity and beauty of the area. Accommodations range from small, rustic cabins to traditional rooms. With so many hiking trails, you can choose the difficulty level that’s right for you. Other activities include driving 105-mile Skyline Drive, stargazing, and ranger talks and guided walks.
The deal: The Early Bird Package includes a traditional room for two, dinner for two, and gratuities. Mention Washingtonian.com when booking to also receive breakfast for two, a $25 value. Package prices start at $171 a night.
When: Valid through June 19, 2014.
By the Bay
Where: Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay Golf Resort, Spa and Marina, 100 Heron Blvd. at Route 50, Cambridge, Md.; 410-901-1234.
What’s special: This 400-acre resort on the Choptank River offers enough activities to keep everyone in the family happy. Enjoy the indoor pool, boating, biking, tennis, the Blue Heron Rookery, a kids’ camp, and an 18-hole championship course that winds along the water. Relax at the renovated 18,000-square-foot spa, where many of the treatments use products—such as lavender and extract of white pine—that reflect the rich ecosystems of Maryland’s Eastern Shore. The newly renovated Blue Point restaurant serves local seafood; other dining choices include the Water’s Edge Grill. Starting April 11, the heated outdoor pool will be open along with the indoor heated pool, which hosts nightly “dive-in” movies. Other events, through April 27, include deejay-hosted pool-deck parties, magic shows, Easter-egg hunts, a family Iron Chef competition, family four-hole golf, cooking demos, golf clinics, yoga classes, and winetastings.
The deal: The Spring Fever Package includes accommodations and a s’mores kit. Rates start at $169 a night Sunday through Thursday and $199 a night Friday and Saturday, a discount of up to 30 percent. Show a printout of this article at check-in and receive a $20 resort credit to use for golf, dining, or the spa or marina. The package reservation must be made in advance. To book or for more information, call 410-901-1234 and request the offer code SFEVER, or visit their website.
When: Valid April 1 through May 30, 2014.
The Windy City
Where: Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, 221 N. Columbus Dr., Chicago, Ill.; 312-565-5258.
What’s special: Enjoy spectacular views of Lake Michigan and some of Chicago’s landmarks from this hotel. The soaring skyscraper is walking distance to the Magnificent Mile, Millennium Park, the lakefront (we recommend an architectural boat tour), Navy Pier, and great restaurants, bars, and music venues. The hotel has indoor and outdoor pools and a health club. There’s on-site parking, free internet access, and complimentary use of an iPad.
The deal: Rates usually start at $199, but stay at least two nights to get a standard city-view room for $139 or a business-class room for $177. The business-class accommodations, on the 17th and 18th floors, include access to the 24-hour business lounge, which offers free continental breakfast, beverages, evening cocktails, and concierge service. In addition, mention Washingtonian.com to also receive one complimentary glass of wine per person at the hotel bar.
When: Valid through April 2014.
