SpringHill Suites Fairfax Fair Oaks leads with a 5-minute walk to George Mason University and an 8.0 guest score. For extended-campus visits, the Residence Inn by Marriott Fairfax City offers a 9.2 comfort score and full kitchens. Both deliver the best proximity-to-quality ratio near the Fairfax campus.
Finding a hotel near George Mason University means balancing campus access with Fairfax’s traffic realities. This guide ranks 16 properties by their actual proximity and guest-verified quality.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 16 properties with 5500+ total verified guest reviews and an 8.1/10 average guest score to find the best hotels near George Mason University, prioritizing cleanliness scores 8.5+ and location ratings 8.8+.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Closest to Campus: #5 SpringHill Suites Fairfax Fair Oaks→ Rates
#15 Candlewood Suites Washington-Fairfax→ Rates - Top-Rated Overall: #12 Archer Hotel Falls Church→ Rates
- Best for Extended Stays: #4 Sonesta ES Suites Fairfax Fair Lakes→ Rates
#16 Residence Inn by Marriott Fairfax City→ Rates - Best Value: #6 Hampton Inn Fairfax City→ Rates
- Pet-Friendly: #14 Homewood Suites by Hilton Falls Church→ Rates
- Wi-Fi Score (Top): #12 Archer Hotel Falls Church→ Rates
#15 Candlewood Suites Washington-Fairfax→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Hilton Fairfax, Va | (1050+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Best Western Fairfax City | (1000+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Courtyard by Marriott Springfield | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Sonesta ES Suites Fairfax Fair Lakes | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 5. SpringHill Suites Fairfax Fair Oaks | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Hampton Inn Fairfax City | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Motel 6-Springfield, DC | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Courtyard Dunn Loring Fairfax | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Falls Church Marriott Fairview Park | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Extended Stay America Suites – Fair Oaks | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Archer Hotel Falls Church | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Homewood Suites by Hilton Falls Church | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Candlewood Suites Washington-Fairfax | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Residence Inn by Marriott Fairfax City | (50+ Reviews) |
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Full Reviews: Where to Stay Near George Mason University
1. Hilton Fairfax, Va
The Vibe
This 4-star property sits off I-66 with jogging paths and on-site dining. It’s a solid short-drive to George Mason University, about 10 minutes by car, and the location score of 9.0 reflects easy access to Fairfax amenities.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking and very good breakfast included — rare for this price tier. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. Guests consistently praise the buffet variety and bar staff. Children 18+ are charged as adults, so families with younger kids get better rates. Pets allowed on request with possible fees.
Choose this if: You want free parking and don’t mind a short drive to campus — the location score is a strong 9.0.
2. Best Western Fairfax City
The Vibe
A reliable 3-star budget option with a seasonal outdoor pool. It’s a 10-minute drive to George Mason University, with the Vienna Metro station 3 miles away for downtown DC access.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking and a very good breakfast included in the rate. The staff scores 8.3, and guests note the property is clean and well-located. Note: you must be 21 to check in, and children 11+ are charged as adults. Pets are not allowed here, so leave the dog at home.
Choose this if: You’re on a strict budget and want free breakfast plus a pool — just note no pets allowed.
3. Courtyard by Marriott Springfield
The Vibe
A 3-star Marriott with an indoor pool and pet-friendly policy, located 6.9 miles from Huntley Meadows Park. It’s about a 20-minute drive to George Mason University — a good pick if you’re combining campus visits with Springfield attractions.
What You Actually Get
The indoor swimming pool stays open, and the garden offers a quiet outdoor space. Pets are allowed with fees, and the property has a restaurant on site. Private parking is available for $10/night. Guests appreciate the nearby shopping and dining options. Check-in requires you to be 21.
Choose this if: You need an indoor pool and don’t mind the 20-minute drive to campus — pets are welcome too.
Check Tonight’s Price for Courtyard by Marriott Springfield →
4. Sonesta ES Suites Fairfax Fair Lakes
The Vibe
A 3-star extended-stay property with a location score of 9.1 — one of the highest on this list. It’s a 10-minute drive to George Mason University, with Fair Lakes shopping and dining steps away.
What You Actually Get
Every suite includes a kitchen with a stove top (not a full oven), a separate bedroom, and a pull-out sofa. Ample free parking. Pets allowed with fees, and guests love the spacious bathrooms. The fitness center and good breakfast included add value. Staff scores 8.7, and cleanliness hits 8.8.
Choose this if: You need kitchen facilities for a longer stay — the location score is a standout 9.1.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sonesta ES Suites Fairfax Fair Lakes →
5. SpringHill Suites Fairfax Fair Oaks
The Vibe
Best hotels near George Mason University starts here. This is the closest property to campus — less than a 5-minute drive. The indoor pool and fitness center make it a solid choice for campus visitors, whether you’re attending a game at EagleBank Arena or visiting a student.
What You Actually Get
An indoor swimming pool, free Wi-Fi with an 8.5 score, and a good breakfast included. Parking is available for a fee — contact the hotel directly for the current rate. Pets are allowed with a $50 non-refundable deposit and $5 daily cleaning fee, no breed or weight restrictions. Staff scores 8.7, and cleanliness hits 8.5.
Choose this if: Proximity to campus matters most — this is the closest property on the list at under 5 minutes.
Check Tonight’s Price for SpringHill Suites Fairfax Fair Oaks →
6. Hampton Inn Fairfax City
The Vibe
Scoring 8.5 overall with a standout 9.1 comfort rating, this Hampton Inn delivers free parking, free breakfast, and Wi-Fi rated 9.5 — the second-highest in this list. It’s about a 10-minute drive to George Mason University.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking and a hot breakfast served Monday-Friday 6-10 AM, weekends 7-11 AM. Every room includes a microwave and fridge. Staff scores 8.9, cleanliness 8.9. No age restriction for check-in, which is rare. Pets allowed with fees.
Choose this if: You prioritize comfort and free breakfast — the 9.1 comfort score is the highest on this list.
7. Motel 6-Springfield, DC – Washington Southwest
The Vibe
The budget champion. This 4-star-tagged motel (in classification only) offers free parking and free Wi-Fi at the lowest rates you’ll find near George Mason University. It’s about a 20-minute drive to campus.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi with an 8.5 score, free parking, and pet-friendly policy. The property is older and the scores reflect that — staff at 7.5, cleanliness at 7.2. There’s no shuttle to the metro; plan to Uber or Lyft the 6-minute ride. Guests appreciate the affordability more than the amenities.
Choose this if: Budget is your only priority — this is the cheapest property near GMU by a significant margin.
Check Tonight’s Price for Motel 6-Springfield, DC – Washington Southwest →
8. Courtyard Dunn Loring Fairfax
The Vibe
One of the highest-rated properties on this list at 8.7 overall. It’s a 10-minute drive to George Mason University, but its real strength is the Dunn Loring Metro station right across the street — perfect for combining campus visits with DC exploration.
What You Actually Get
Staff scores an impressive 9.3, cleanliness 9.1, and comfort 9.1. Private parking is available. The on-site restaurant serves breakfast and dinner, with an American breakfast costing €10 optional. Pets are allowed with a $100 non-refundable fee. Some rooms have balconies — request at booking.
Choose this if: You want excellent service and metro access — the 9.3 staff score is the best on this list.
9. Falls Church Marriott Fairview Park
The Vibe
A 4-star Marriott with city views and a wonderful breakfast — €14 optional. It’s about 15 minutes from George Mason University, located off I-495 near Route 50.
What You Actually Get
Comfort scores 8.7, and staff scores 8.6. All rooms have mini-fridges. The breakfast-included rate covers 2 adults and up to 2 children under 12. Note: there’s no pool here — that was removed. Pets allowed with fees. The property has two dining options and a modern 24-hour gym.
Choose this if: You want a 4-star feel and city views — just note there’s no pool.
Check Tonight’s Price for Falls Church Marriott Fairview Park →
10. Extended Stay America Suites – Washington, DC – Fairfax – Fair Oaks Mall
The Vibe
A 2-star extended-stay property with free parking and Wi-Fi scoring 9.0. It’s about 10 minutes from George Mason University, near Fair Oaks Mall. No age restriction for check-in.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking, free Wi-Fi (9.0), and breakfast included. Housekeeping is every 14 days, so this is truly for longer stays. Staff scores 8.4. Pets allowed on request. The location scores 8.8, reflecting Fair Oaks Mall proximity. Guests note it’s clean and quiet.
Choose this if: You need an affordable extended stay with strong Wi-Fi and free parking.
Check Tonight’s Price for Extended Stay America Suites – Washington, DC – Fairfax – Fair Oaks →
11. Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks
The Vibe
A 4-star Marriott next to Fair Oaks Mall, 15 minutes from George Mason University. Free on-site parking and an on-site restaurant make this a comfortable choice for campus visitors who also want mall access.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking, a restaurant serving dinner 7 days a week (sit-down Mon-Sat), and a good breakfast. All rooms have mini-fridges in the cabinetry. Staff scores 8.7, cleanliness 8.5. Pets allowed with a $100 per-stay fee, max 2 pets. About 15 minutes from EagleBank Arena.
Choose this if: You want free parking and an on-site restaurant — the location near Fair Oaks Mall is a bonus.
12. Archer Hotel Falls Church
The Vibe
The highest overall scorer at 8.8 — excellent in every category. Wi-Fi scores a perfect 10.0, and the location hits 9.4. It’s about 15 minutes from George Mason University, but the quality justifies the short drive.
What You Actually Get
Nespresso machines in every room (yes, every single one). The entire hotel is renovated. Comfort scores 9.4, cleanliness 9.3, staff 9.1. Parking is at the Market Garage on the 2nd floor, across the street. Room service available for dinner 4-10 PM daily. Pets allowed on request.
Choose this if: Quality matters most — this is the highest-rated property on the list at 8.8 overall.
13. Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax
The Vibe
A 3-star Hilton Garden Inn with Wi-Fi scoring 9.5 and a free shuttle to the Vienna Metro, Fair Oaks Mall, and area attractions. About 10 minutes from George Mason University.
What You Actually Get
Free parking, free Wi-Fi (9.5), and breakfast optional at €10. The shuttle departs daily at 9 AM and 10 AM, with an extra noon departure on weekends — great for metro access to DC. Staff scores 8.2, cleanliness 8.7. Pets allowed with fees. Guests praise Nabil at the front desk specifically.
Choose this if: You want a free shuttle to the metro — this is the only property with this perk.
14. Homewood Suites by Hilton Falls Church
The Vibe
A 3-star Hilton with an indoor pool, kitchen suites, and a staff score of 9.1. About 20 minutes from George Mason University, located in Merrifield with barbecue facilities.
What You Actually Get
All suites have separate living rooms with pull-out sofas and full kitchens. Indoor swimming pool, private parking, and good breakfast included. Staff scores 9.1, location scores 9.1. Pets allowed with a fee structure: $75 for 1-4 nights, higher for longer stays. Children 18+ charged as adults.
Choose this if: You want an indoor pool and kitchen suites — the staff score of 9.1 is a bonus.
Check Tonight’s Price for Homewood Suites by Hilton Falls Church →
15. Candlewood Suites Washington-Fairfax by IHG
The Vibe
Best hotels near George Mason University gets a strong contender here — this 2-star IHG property sits just 3 miles from campus. Wi-Fi scores a perfect 10.0, and every suite comes with a fully equipped kitchen.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking, free Wi-Fi (10.0), and full kitchens in every suite. The layout includes a bedroom and separate living area with pull-out sofas. Staff scores 8.7, cleanliness 8.6. Pets allowed with a fee structure: $25 for 1 night, $50 for 2-3 nights, $150 for 4+ nights. Dog size limit is 50 pounds.
Choose this if: Proximity and kitchen access matter — it’s 3 miles from GMU with a perfect Wi-Fi score.
Check Tonight’s Price for Candlewood Suites Washington-Fairfax by IHG →
16. Residence Inn by Marriott Fairfax City
The Vibe
An 8.7 excellent-rated Marriott off I-66, 5 minutes from downtown Fairfax and about 10 minutes from George Mason University. Comfort scores 9.2 — one of the highest on this list.
What You Actually Get
Staff 9.1, facilities 9.1, cleanliness 9.1, comfort 9.2 — nearly flawless across the board. American breakfast included. On-site parking available. Coin-operated laundry on property. Entire hotel is non-smoking. Pets allowed with a $150 non-refundable cleaning fee. Guests return repeatedly, praising the cleanliness and location.
Choose this if: You want top-tier comfort and cleanliness — the 9.2 comfort score is among the best in Fairfax.
Check Tonight’s Price for Residence Inn by Marriott Fairfax City →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#5 SpringHill Suites Fairfax Fair Oaks
The closest property to George Mason University at under 5 minutes, with solid 8.0 score and an indoor pool — unbeatable proximity-to-quality ratio.
Check Tonight’s Price for SpringHill Suites Fairfax Fair Oaks →
💰 Best Value
#6 Hampton Inn Fairfax City
8.5 overall with free parking, free breakfast, and a 9.1 comfort score — exceptional value for the Fairfax area.
⭐ Editor’s Choice
#12 Archer Hotel Falls Church
8.8 overall with perfect 10.0 Wi-Fi and renovated rooms with Nespresso — the quality leader within 15 minutes of GMU.
How We Ranked These Hotels
To find the best hotels near George Mason University, I cross-referenced 16 properties with 5500+ verified guest reviews, filtering for location proximity to campus, guest scores, and verified amenities.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews, though we included some lower-scoring budget options for completeness
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized location, cleanliness, and comfort — the categories most relevant to campus visitors
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns to confirm free parking, breakfast, and kitchen facilities
- Proximity signals: Emphasized properties under 15 minutes from George Mason University, with bonus consideration for those offering shuttle or metro access
Frequently Asked Questions
Which hotels are closest to George Mason University?
SpringHill Suites Fairfax Fair Oaks is the closest at less than a 5-minute drive. Candlewood Suites Washington-Fairfax is 3 miles away. Hampton Inn Fairfax City and the Hilton Fairfax are both within 10 minutes. For walkability, SpringHill Suites is your best bet, though most properties are a short drive given Fairfax’s layout.
Which hotels offer free parking near GMU?
Several properties offer free parking: Hilton Fairfax, Best Western Fairfax City, Sonesta ES Suites Fairfax Fair Lakes, Hampton Inn Fairfax City, Motel 6 Springfield, Extended Stay America Suites Fair Oaks, Fairfax Marriott at Fair Oaks, Hilton Garden Inn Fairfax, Candlewood Suites Washington-Fairfax, and Residence Inn by Marriott Fairfax City all include free parking. Courtyard by Marriott Springfield charges $10/night.
Are pets allowed at these Fairfax hotels?
Most properties on this list are pet-friendly with fees. SpringHill Suites charges $50 deposit + $5/day; Candlewood Suites charges $25-$150 based on stay length; Homewood Suites charges $75 for 1-4 nights; Residence Inn charges $150 flat. Best Western Fairfax City does not allow pets. Always confirm fees and weight limits directly with the hotel before booking.
What’s the best time to visit George Mason University?
Fall (September-November) is peak for campus visits — the weather is mild and the leaves are stunning. Spring (March-May) is also excellent for tours and events. Summer can be hot and humid, but rates at these Fairfax hotels often drop. Winter sees fewer visitors and lower prices, though snow can occasionally impact travel.
Which hotels offer free breakfast near GMU?
Most properties include breakfast: Hilton Fairfax (very good breakfast), Best Western Fairfax City (very good), Sonesta ES Suites (good), SpringHill Suites (good), Hampton Inn Fairfax City (very good), Extended Stay America, Courtyard Dunn Loring (optional at €10), Hilton Garden Inn (optional at €10), Falls Church Marriott (optional at €14), Homewood Suites (good), and Residence Inn (included).
How do I get from Dulles Airport to these Fairfax hotels?
Dulles (IAD) is 11 miles from most Fairfax hotels. A rideshare costs approximately $25-35 and takes 15-20 minutes. The Silver Line Metro runs from Dulles to the Wiehle-Reston East station, about 10 minutes from Fairfax. Some hotels like Hilton Garden Inn offer a free shuttle to the Vienna Metro station, which connects to Dulles via the Silver Line.