A Quick (and New) Staycation
Where: The Hotel at the University of Maryland, 7777 Baltimore Ave., College Park; 301-277-7777.
What’s special: This new contemporary hotel—located directly across the street from the main entrance to the University of Maryland—offers first-class amenities, including a collection of art by local artists, complimentary shuttle service within three miles, an indoor pool, a stylish lobby bar, an incredible fitness center, fireplaces, and a good selection of restaurants right in the hotel, including a Kapnos Taverna. The relaxing guest rooms feature plush Turkish robes, L’Occitane bath products, complimentary wi-fi, and fine linens. Nearby, you can check out what’s happening at The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center.
The deal: The “Washingtonian Staycation” package includes a complimentary upgrade to a deluxe guest room, complimentary self-parking, two drinks per night at The Lobby Bar, and a welcome chocolate amenity. Rates start at $179. To book, click here and use the promo code WSHINGTN
When: Valid for stays through March 31, 2018.
Richmond Food and Culture
Where: The Jefferson Hotel, 101 W. Franklin St., Richmond; 888-918-1895.
What’s special: This opulent Beaux Arts hotel has undergone a major renovation. Guests can enjoy Nespresso coffee makers, glorious beds and linens, and luxurious bathrooms with a television in the vanity mirror. Wander the lobby and see the marble columns and 36-step, grand marble staircase. While in Richmond, you can visit the Virginia Capitol and the Museum of Fine Arts, see the outdoor murals throughout the town, stop by one of the 28 craft breweries, and check-out the cuisine in this foodie city.
The deal: The “Winter Bed and Breakfast Package” throws in, besides the room, a traditional Southern breakfast for two in the restaurant, breakfast gratuities, and valet parking, for a discount of 40 percent off regular rates. Washingtonians who show this deal on their phone during check-in also receive a bottle of Jefferson Hotel-label wine delivered to their room, a $40 value. Rates start at $315.
When: Valid for stays Friday through Monday, January 14 through March 19, 2018.
Checking Inn
Where: Doylestown Inn, 18 W State St., Doylestown, Pa.; 215-345-6610.
What’s special: This charming inn has 11 beautifully appointed and romantic guest rooms. It also has history: The 1871 dwelling has been a hattery, a cigar shop, a shoe store, a restaurant, and even a speakeasy during prohibition. In 2014, 4,500 square feet of the building was turned into The Hattery Stove & Still, which serves brunch, lunch, and dinner and pays homage to the property’s history. The lobby-level bar features a base made with antique wooden beverage boxes and a stainless steel bar top with rivets reminiscent of vintage aircraft wings. An unusual lower-level bar makes use of a 1936 Oldsmobile. At either bar, you can order craft-brewed beers, artisan wines, and cocktails. The inn is walking distance from shops and galleries.
The deal: The Washingtonian deal includes a 25 percent discount on accommodations, and a bottle of wine waiting in the room. To book, type in promo code “Washingtonian” in the Book Now section of the inn’s web site. Prices start at $170, before the discount.
When: Valid for stays through January 31, 2018.
A Recipe for Murder
Where: Allenberry Resort, 1559 Boiling Springs Rd., Boiling Springs, Pa.; 717-258-3211.
What’s special: This fully renovated historic resort sits on 57 acres along the Yellow Breeches Creek and Appalachian Trail and offers guests mountain views. There are a variety of lodging options including a restored four-bedroom 1820’s stone mansion, cozy cottages, and suites. Pets are allowed in some of the accommodations
The deal: “A Recipe for Murder” package begins on Friday evening with light appetizers and aperitifs. Next it’s on to the Playhouse for the first scene of the culinary caper—and a cooking competition. The mystery continues over lunch the next day. Saturday night, it’s time to dress up as your favorite culinary character. The “culprit” in the murder mystery is revealed at Sunday morning’s brunch. Included are overnight accommodations for two nights; dinner, appetizers, and aperitifs on Friday evening; continental breakfast and lunch on Saturday; Saturday dinner, including the costume party, live music, and dancing; and Sunday brunch. Spend your free time strolling around the winter wonderland, partaking in a spa treatment, or exploring the local towns of Boiling Springs or Carlisle. The price is $499.50 a person. To get the special “Washingtonian” rate, which includes a box of the resort’s signature sticky buns (a $15 value), call 717-258-3211.
When: Valid for stays January 19-21, January 26-28, February 2-4, or February 9-11.
New York, New York
Where: Loews Regency New York, 540 Park Ave., New York. 212-759-4100.
What’s special: This luxury hotel with spacious guest rooms features a spa, a lobby lounge, The Regency Bar & Grill, a coffee bar, and a state-of-the-art fitness center. The complimentary Mercedes car service will transport you anywhere within a 20-block radius. The hotel is close to Fifth Avenue, Central Park, Grand Central Station, restaurants, and Rockefeller Center. And you can bring your dog.
The deal: “The New Year New You” package includes up to $100 off guest accommodations, and a 60-minute hot-stone massage and 60-minute facial from the on-site Julien Farel Restore Salon & Spa. Washingtonian readers also receive a two-drink voucher to the Regency Bar & Grill. Mention Washingtonian
When: Valid for stays through April 1, 2018.
