Big cities are big for a reason: Lots of people want to live in, work in, and visit them. But that popularity comes with a price—literally. Too often, would-be visitors who are traveling on a budget get shunted to cities’ outskirts instead of getting to experience the thrill of being in the thick of things. But such is not the case with these five hotels, which sit right in the heart of a variety of big cities and still manage to cost less than $250 a night.
1. Embassy Suites, Boca Raton, FL
A relaxing atrium waterfall greets guests at the Embassy Suites, which is located right in the heart of Boca Raton’s business district. Guests enjoy complimentary breakfast, a free evening reception featuring snacks and drinks, and access to a fitness center, hot tub, and outdoor pool. Each room consists of a two-room suite featuring a separate living area and kitchenette. The location is equally functional—the hotel is less than 30 minutes to popular Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale; it’s also near the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, the Florida Atlantic University Stadium, and the Town Center Mall. In general, expect a stay to cost less than $250 per night.
2. Hyatt French Quarter, New Orleans, LA
The Hyatt French Quarter perfectly blends the historic nature of its building and location with modern amenities, including spacious rooms and luxury bath products. Ask for a room with a private balcony, and you’ll get to enjoy views of Bourbon Street in your pajamas. But it’s worth getting dressed and hitting the town. The hotel’s doors open directly onto Bourbon Street, meaning you’ll be just steps away from a variety of art galleries, jazz bars, and exceptional restaurants, among other popular attractions. With such a great location, you might expect the rates to be astronomical, but they start as low as $150.
3. Hyatt Place Charlotte Downtown, Charlotte, NC
You’ll have plenty of room to relax at the Hyatt Place Charlotte Downtown, where each room features separate sleeping and lounging areas. In fact, everything about this hotel is geared toward guests’ convenience—grab a snack anytime at the 24/7 Gallery Menu and Market, unwind with a cocktail at the hotel bar, squeeze in a sweat session at the 24-hour fitness facility, or relax in the outdoor pool. The hotel is also conveniently located. It’s near downtown Charlotte’s eating and shopping in addition to the NASCAR Hall of Fame and Epicenter Entertainment, which features live music, cinema, and nightlife. A standard room with a King bed costs around $107 per night, while a one-bedroom suite costs around $137.
4. Millennium Hotel Durham, Durham, NC
Each of the 316 rooms at the three-star Millennium Hotel Durham is tastefully decorated with dark wood furniture and beautiful artworks. Good art is a theme throughout the hotel—even the large indoor pool is surrounded by murals. Guests can also enjoy dedicated amenities like Bel Gusto Restaurant, which offers authentic Italian food, and the Lobby Bar, which is a popular spot for guests to unwind. A 24-hour business center, dry cleaning service, and luggage storage room round out the list of amenities on offer. The hotel is easily accessible to the Rhine Research Center Museum, the Duke University Chapel, and the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Rates begin at just $93 per night.
5. Omni Shoreham, Washington, DC
The Omni Shoreham has hosted distinguished guests (including U.S. presidents and leaders from around the globe) since 1930. But don’t let its prestige fool you—a stay here is remarkably affordable, with rates starting at $200 a night. You’ll get what you pay for (and then some); the room’s luxury amenities include granite-topped wet bars, stainless steel bathroom fixtures, and premium bedding. The four-star hotel also boasts manicured green gardens, an outdoor pool, a premier fitness center, a full-service spa, valet parking, and an on-site restaurant. Guests will find it easy to travel to popular destinations (such as the White House and Lincoln Memorial) via the nearby Woodley Park-Zoo Metro Station.
