Originally known as Surratt's Villa, Clinton was founded sometime in the 1770s. Over the next 100 years, the town underwent numerous name changes, and it didn't receive its current name until 1879. Initially, the town acted as a simple settlement along the route from Washington, D.C. to the South, having only a post office, tavern, and hotel all housed in a single building.
However, its role in American history is impressive, albeit for infamous reasons. In 1865, John Wilkes Booth retrieved weapons and supplies hidden in Clinton at the Surratt tavern after assassinating President Lincoln. Mary Surratt, who was named as a co-conspirator after the assassination, lived in Clinton, and her surname was the source of the town's original name. Today, her former home is a museum, serving as an interesting and haunting backdrop. Clinton is more famously known for Andrews Air Force Base, which houses and services Air Force One.
No matter what your reason for coming to Clinton, it's important to find the right hotel so you can enjoy everything in the town and surrounding area.
When to Visit Clinton, MD
The best time to visit Clinton is from March to May. Although temperatures can often get a bit chilly at the beginning of spring, they eventually warm up to the 70s and low 80s by late May. Regardless of which month you come, make sure to pack for both warm and cold weather. If you love natural beauty, you can't afford to miss the National Cherry Blossom Festival in neighboring Washington, D.C. Along with the picturesque blooming of the trees, there's also live music, balloons, floats, marching bands, and parades throughout the season. Hotel demand is highly variable during this time of the year, so you may want to book your hotel room well in advance. However, scoring a last-minute deal isn't entirely out of the question.
The fall is also an excellent time of year to visit Clinton, as temperatures remain comfortable and range from the low 50s to the mid-70s. However, you may want to pack layers, as temperatures can fall into the 40s at night with little notice. From September to November, tourist populations thin out, allowing you to beat the crowds and explore the area with relative ease. The demand for hotels lessens from September to November, giving you the chance to score a sweet deal on the room of your choice.
In the winter, the temperatures get frigid, so make sure to pack your heavy coat, scarf, gloves, hat, and boots. From December to February, snow falls frequently, but that's not all bad. There are 10 ski fields within a two-hour drive of Clinton, allowing you to hit the slopes with ease. If you arrive during Christmastime, take the short drive to Washington, D.C. for the annual National Tree Lighting, which is an amazing sight. Booking a hotel during this time is far easier than at other times of the year, as most tourists are put off by the cold weather.
Another great time to visit Clinton is during the summer, as temperatures warm, but don't get to an oppressively high level. However, larger crowds visit to see the famous Surratt House Museum, as well as to take historic tours of the town. It's also an ideal time to walk around the downtown area and take in some of the shops and restaurants. Overflow from Washington, D.C. can sometimes cause a higher demand, so early bookings are highly recommended.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Clinton, MD:
Clinton by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in Clinton, MD. You can use these illustrations to determine the least expensive time to book a room in Clinton throughout the year.
Luxury Hotel Options in Clinton, MD
4 Star Average Prices: $168.81
If you're willing to stay a few miles outside of Clinton, there are loads of opulent hotels to pamper you during your visit. Located across the street from the White House, The Hay-Adams is the area's top five-star hotel. Built in the 1920s, this boutique hotel has a look to match its offerings. You can choose options ranging from cozy guest rooms to spacious suites, each with a spectacular view of Lafayette Park, St. John's Church, and the White House. You'll also have a choice of layouts, including a king bed, queen bed, or two double beds. All rooms come with stellar amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, custom Italian bed linens and towels, a 37-inch HD flat-screen television, a mobile charging station, around the clock in-room dining, and a SoundLink mini Bluetooth Speaker. Guests have access to perks such as a complimentary Tesla vehicle to explore Washington, D.C., a fitness facility with weights and cardio equipment, a state-of-the-art 24-hour business center, and a concierge service.
Affordable Hotel Options in Clinton, MD
3 Star Average Prices: $117.38
Finding budget accommodations in Clinton isn't as hard as you may think. At the Econo Lodge, you'll be conveniently located in central Clinton with easy access to many of the area's other well-known attractions, such as Andrews Air Force Base, the Surratt House Museum, and Six Flags America. Each room offers a television with cable programming, a coffee maker, whirlpool bathtub, kitchenette, and free wireless high-speed internet access. On-site amenities include a common room with a television and free coffee, fax and copy services, a laundry room, and a delicious, complimentary continental breakfast each morning.
Another low-cost hotel option in the area is the Motel 6, which is only 4 miles from the Clinton city center. This motel is close to many of the area's top attractions, including the Jefferson Memorial, the United States Capitol, and the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site. When you arrive, you'll find free parking, as well as on-site perks such as a 24-hour front desk and free coffee and tea around the clock. Rooms are well appointed and feature complimentary wireless internet, cable television, self-controlled air conditioning, free local calls, and a shower/tub combo.
