There are plenty of visitors hotel gets for non P4P reasons. Like conferences, meetings etc.  I have never had my car towed or even any warning issued because I was in the hotel for couple of hours. If going to incall in VA I just use hotel parking (typically free at least in Tyson's or Dulles area), and if going to DC I will definitely use valet parking. One thing I don't do is park on the street, or park in some other hotel's parking lot.  

If you don't feel safe parking and entering through front door, a lot of guys find a parking close to one of the side entrances, and enter that way.

-- Modified on 5/9/2015 5:16:40 PM

I've never had an issue with parking at a hotel.  In VA or BWI, I always park in the hotel's lot.   In DC, I always park on the street in an unmetered zone (Ok...I'm a cheap SOB), if possible. I most usually stay in the car until the time of meeting is near.

You won't have any problem parking at most hotels if you're there for a couple hours. I agree, use the valet if you're concerned about it.

Always ask if parking is limited to guests or costs monies.
Or google the address & read websites!!
Plan ahead & prevent towing.

If you can Metro & the walk is less than 4 blocks... Take Metro!

 
Don't worry about parking, worry about going through the lobby.
I suggest grabbing some airplane toiletries & stroll through with that grocery bag like you're busy & really need to get this over with, damned errands.

Too unusual?
Okay lol Bring a book, & a thank you card. Be cheap! Freecycle an old book.

Like others have advised, there is usually no issue with this and valet is always an option.

As Amber mentioned, I'd be more concerned with going through the lobby. Some guys show up and you just know they don't belong there. They show how nervous they are.

Here's what works for me:

1) In my right before the room number is given call or text, I always ask the lady I am going to visit where the elevators are (if applicable). That helps because you can then walk in like you are staying there and go straight to the elevators.  

2) Always smile and respond when spoken to. Most hotel employees are gregarious and welcome people verbally. They have also been trained to be on the "lookout" for people acting strangely and report them.

3) Always carry something that makes it look like you are there for a business meeting. I carry my flat portfolio with me with me and sometimes even bring in my laptop bag.  

Hope all this helps and don't sweat the parking stuff.....that should be the least of your worries.

As others have said, hotels see tons of people going in and out who aren't guests. They could be friends, relatives, coworkers visiting someone who is staying there, there for a conference, or, if the hotel has a bar and/or restaurant, there to partake in that.

Just act like you belong and nobody will give you a second thought.