Legend has it Colonel Samuel Chapman, one of the area's first landowners, named the city. While details are sketchy, people believe he named part of his property La Plata after the Rio de la Plata, a river he'd seen on his travels to South America. The city really began taking shape in the 1870s, when the Pennsylvania Railroad was extended through the land. La Plata was officially incorporated in 1888.
Today, La Plata is a home base for people working for Charles County government and in nearby Waldorf, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. Recent redevelopment of local offices and other elements of La Plata have seen the city receive a new lease on life. As La Plata grows, there are likely to be even more facilities for travelers and residents to enjoy.
When is the best time to visit the La Plata, MD area?
Many Americans dream of summer vacations, but La Plata is a city best experienced when the weather cools. Its subtropical climate means its summers are oppressively hot and humid. Its winters are much milder than in many parts of the country. Therefore, La Plata can be a good choice for Americans wanting to escape the bitter conditions in their own cities.
However, for the most pleasant travel experience, visit La Plata during the fall. With the weather not too hot or too cold, you'll feel comfortable exploring the city and beyond. The Fall Festival, held every October, is another real draw card for travelers.
Spring also has mild temperatures, but strong winds from March to May are best avoided. While La Plata hasn't experienced a major tornado since 2002, the threat is always there. If your heart is set on a spring trip, check the weather forecast before your departure to determine whether the city is safe.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in La Plata, MD:
La Plata by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean rate trends by star rating class in La Plata, MD. You can use these line graphs to determine the most cost effective dates to stay in La Plata for upcoming travels.
What are the luxury hotels around La Plata, MD?
4 Star Average Prices: $116.50
La Plata's hotels don't have a lot of bells and whistles, but travel just outside the city and you'll find hotels a little more upmarket. These accommodation options offer service and facilities a cut above the average.
Courtyard by Marriott Waldorf has spacious rooms with quality wooden furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and work stations. For plenty of space to spread out, book a king-sized suite with a separate living area. You probably won't spend a lot of time in your room though, as the indoor pool and Jacuzzi area and patio with firepits will fight for your attention. While several restaurants are close by, the Bistro means you needn't go anywhere to enjoy a great meal. Look out for the daily happy hour specials served every evening.
Attention to detail helps set Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Waldorf. The little things, such as free coffee and cookies in the lobby, the seasonal outdoor pool, and the Read It and Return It lending library, help make guests' stay special. The contemporary hotel rooms feature modern conveniences, including microwave ovens, fridges, work stations with ergonomic chairs, flat-screen TVs with premium channels, and complimentary, high-speed Wi-Fi. A free breakfast buffet features waffles, eggs, and all your morning favorites.
Where are the most affordable hotels near La Plata, Maryland?
3 Star Average Prices: $116.02
You don't need to spend a lot of money to stay in or around La Plata. The following hotels offer quality accommodation for less.
Best Western La Plata Inn is one of the few hotels in La Plata, but you won't pay a lot of money for this convenience. The recently renovated guestrooms are neat and tidy, with modern appliances including flat-screen TVs, microwave ovens, and fridges. Suites offer guests more space, with separate living areas featuring work desks, sleeper sofas, and extra TVs. An on-site business center, a small gym, and a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning offer guests more value.
Holiday Inn Express Waldorf offers a little more polish in nearby Waldorf. Its modern guestrooms feature Keurig coffee makers, iHome clock radio and speaker systems, microwaves, fridges, and high-definition flat-screen TVs. After a good night's sleep, savor the free Express Start buffet breakfast. The generous spread includes eggs, cinnamon rolls, and biscuits and gravy. Holiday Inn Express Waldorf also has a business center, a small gym, and an indoor swimming pool.
