Hotels

Lodging choices are somewhat limited in downtown Montgomery, which has only a few reputable hotels and one excellent bed-and-breakfast, but all the familiar hotel-motel chains can be found near the interstate exits.

There is only one bed-and-breakfast in town, but we can heartily recommend it. Red Bluff Cottage Bed and Breakfast, 551 Clay St. (tel. 888/551-2529 or 334/264-0056; www.redbluffcottage.com), is an immaculate and cozy retreat for travelers who appreciate being pampered in homey surroundings. Four spacious guest rooms are beautifully furnished with quilts, antiques, and overstuffed furniture -- as well as wireless Internet access. From the front porch, there are lovely views of the State Capitol and Alabama River. In the quiet Cottage Hill residential neighborhood, Red Bluff has easy interstate access and is just a few blocks from downtown attractions. Children are welcome. Doubles run from $110 to $155.

Downtown's newest and best full-service hotel is the Embassy Suites Hotel Montgomery-Conference Center, 300 Tallapoosa St. (tel. 334/269-5055; www.embassysuites.com). Across the street from the visitor center and trolley stop, the all-suite hotel offers kitchenette-equipped suites, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Rates ($119-$149) include breakfast. If you're taking in a few plays at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, the attractive, budget-priced Fairfield Inn Montgomery, 5601 Carmichael Rd. (tel. 334/270-0007; www.marriott.com), located a mile from the theater, is convenient and comfortable. Free local calls and an outdoor pool are other perks. Fridges and microwaves are available in some rooms. Rates run $64, plus tax, double.