What to expect: Located in Annapolis, this Doubletree hotel draws leisure travelers, groups, and families. The lobby, renovated September 2006, offers a gift shop, desks, and an additional seating area with a fireplace and flat-screen TV.

Amenity highlights: On request, the Doubletree hotel’s shuttle takes guests anywhere within five miles, including Annapolis’s historic district, the US Naval Academy, the city dock, and Annapolis Mall. The 255-foot-long outdoor pool is open until late evening in summer.

Insider tip: Located one block across West Street in the Festival at Riva Shopping Center, Maggie Moo’s offers sweet treats. Four blocks away, sprawling Annapolis Mall is home to 176 stores (including Nordstrom), restaurants, and a movie theater.

What to expect: Located on the western edge of Maryland's quaint capital, the hotel is popular with weekend travelers, government or business travelers, and pet owners. Thanks to Loews' pet-friendly policies, dogs and cats are frequently queued at the gray marble check-in counter in the spacious lobby.

Amenity highlights: Loews Annapolis Hotel provides a business center, meeting and conference facilities, and concierge services. Caffe Pronto, located in the hotel, is popular for lattes.

Insider tip: For a comprehensive overview of things to do and see in Annapolis, guests can catch the hour-long minibus tour (surcharge) that leaves from the nearby visitor's center.