| this unassuming low-rise hotel off highway 165 lies across the road from the metrocenter mall shopping center and a mile from alexandria zoo. there's a low-key italian restaurant, as well as a bbq picnic area and an outdoor seasonal pool. check-in time: 3:00 pmcheck-out time: 11:00 am. pets are allowed (restrictions apply) and parking is complimentary. microwaves and minifridges are available by request. the basic rooms offer satellite tv, free wi-fi and desks; some have flat-screen tvs
Alexandria International Airport 18 min
Alexandria Zoological Park (6 min)
Zoo with international-themed habitats for exotic wildlife & tours on a scale-model train. Arna Bontemps African-American (11 min)
Exhibits about Harlem Renaissance poet, novelist & librarian Arna Bontemps in his birthplace home. Lake Buhlow (12 min) Louisiana History Museum (10 min)
Converted public library now housing a collection of artifacts from the early days of the state. Kent Plantation House (6 min)
French-colonial plantation house built in 1796, featuring guided tours & grounds with outbuildings. Alexandria Museum of Art (11 min)
Modest museum with permanent & rotating exhibits & classes in a renovated historic bank building. James Wade Bolton House (11 min) Wild Azalea Trailhead (18 min)
Camping, backpacking, and outdoor recreation Forts Randolph & Buhlow State Historic Site (14 min)
Historic spot with a visitor's center, an elevated boardwalk & Civil War re-enactments in a field. Kees Park (12 min) T.R.E.E. House (10 min)
Children's museum with a small-scale grocery, bank & medical clinic for imaginative play. Pineville Old Town Hall Museum (12 min) | 
