The third largest city in the state, Bowie is located in Prince George's County, roughly 20 miles east of Washington, D.C. The area grew into a city in 1853 thanks to the construction of a railroad that linked northern and southern Maryland. For the remainder of the century, Bowie served as a major railroad junction to southern Maryland and Washington, D.C. By 1963, Bowie had grown into a large city boasting many forms of rapid transit, as well as schools, a race track, and a residential community.
Today, Bowie is a thriving community with no shortage of things to do. No matter what your reason for visiting the city, it's important that you find the best hotel for your needs so that nothing gets in the way of you enjoying all that Bowie has to offer.
When to Visit Bowie, MD
The best time to visit Bowie is between March and May, when the weather is warm and temperatures reach average highs of 60 degrees. You may experience some chilly days in the early part of the season, but overall conditions will be perfect for enjoying many of Bowie's best attractions. You can race along a half-mile track at the Crofton Go Kart Raceway, spend a day shopping at Bowie Town Center, or go golfing in nearby Crofton. This isn't high season in the city, so you'll benefit from low crowds and affordable hotel rates.
From June to August, temperatures rise to the upper 80s, making the weather just right for enjoying Bowie's various summertime activities. You can go for a swim in Allen Park, catch a Bowie Baysox minor league baseball game, or take part in Bowiefest, the city's annual celebration. There will be plenty to do, so book your hotel room in advance and expect to see large groups around the city.
By the fall (September to November), temperatures will reach highs in the upper 60s. You can take advantage of the great weather by visiting the city's historic attractions or going for a hike in one of Bowie's smaller parks, such as Acorn Hill Park, Blacksox Park, or Buckingham Park. Children will be back in school, so you won't have to worry about large groups of families, and hotel rates will drop to more affordable levels.
Thanks to the 40-degree temperatures, you probably won't be able to enjoy as many outdoor activities from December to March, but you will have plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy. One of the most popular is ice skating at Bowie Arena. This large facility hosts Friday night DJ skating sessions and other fun skating events. If that doesn't interest you, you can watch a theater show at Bowie Playhouse or catch the newest movie at Regal Bowie Stadium. Best of all, you won't have to worry about crowds, and hotel rates will be at their lowest.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Bowie, MD:
Bowie, MD: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. nightly cost trends by star rating class in Bowie, MD. Browse these charts to evaluate the best months to stay in Bowie during the year.
Luxury Hotel Options in Bowie, MD
4 Star Average Prices: $145.74
If you'd prefer luxury, you'll find many high-end hotels in the Bowie area. Greenbelt Marriott is located west of the center of Bowie in the business district, close to Greenbelt Museum, Buddy Attick Park, and FedEx Field. Its 288 modern and intuitively designed rooms feature plush luxury bedding, convenient in-room coffee makers, and flat-screen TVs for entertainment. Each room also features a sleek marble bathroom, where you'll find premium THANN products and comfortable bathrobes.
Hotel amenities include the Market Café and Coffee Bar, which serves delicious Starbucks coffee and pastries, as well as an airy restaurant and trendy bar and lounge. For recreation, you can swim in the indoor and outdoor pools or work out in the hotel's state-of-the-art fitness center.
Another luxury hotel that's sure to please is Metro Points Hotel Washington North. Located a short distance away from Bowie's city center, this hotel puts you close to New Carrollton Metro Center and popular attractions like Greenbelt Park, Goddard Visitor Center, and Prince George's Sports and Learning Complex. You'll enjoy a spacious guest room with an oversized work desk, 32-inch LCD flat-screen TV, and comfy ergonomic chair. If you upgrade to a suite, you'll enjoy the addition of a convenient prep kitchen and relaxing whirlpool soaking tub.
Step outside of your room and make use of the hotel's impressive 2,500-square-foot fitness and business center, which are open 24 hours a day. There are also four on-site restaurants serving everything from Greek to traditional Mexican food.
Affordable Hotel Options in Bowie, MD
3 Star Average Prices: $122.10
If you're traveling on a budget, you'll find many affordable hotel options in and around Bowie. Red Roof Inn Washington DC Laurel is located a short distance away from the center of the city, near Bowie State College, Goddard Space Center, and Laurel Raceway.
The hotel offers 120 newly renovated rooms that feature comfortable Rest Suite beds by Serta, high-end bedding, and contemporary furniture. For convenience and comfort, you'll also have a flat-screen TV with “On Command Video,” a coffeemaker, and complimentary internet access. In addition to comfortable rooms, the hotel also features a snack center and pet-friendly accommodations.
For another affordable hotel option, consider a stay at Best Western Capital Beltway. This comfy hotel is situated southwest of the center of Bowie, in close proximity to Six Flags America, PG Sports Complex, and Greenbelt Park. You'll enjoy a cool, clean, and spacious room with complimentary internet access for staying connected, luxury bedding for a peaceful night's sleep, and a desk for getting work done. Some rooms also include refrigerators, microwaves, and sofa beds.
The hotel also features an outdoor seasonal pool, 24-hour fitness facility, concierge desk, and business center. For additional convenience, you can take advantage of the hotel's complimentary shuttle service to the nearby train station.
