Hampton Inn & Suites Ridgecrest

In the high-desert business district of Ridgecrest, a hotel steps out to serve travelers and base personnel alike. It's a short walk to Ridgecrest Regional Hospital and the Maturango Museum, and less than a mile from Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake. Inyokern Airport sits about 10 miles away, and the hotel is a handy stop on routes to Death Valley, Lake Isabella and Mt. Whitney.

Rooms number 93 and keep things simple and comfortable with pillowtop beds, refrigerators, microwaves and sofa beds in many units. Expect flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms with shower/tub combos, complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Décor leans warm and practical — easy to unpack, easy to relax after a long drive or a day in the field.

Take a dip in the outdoor pool or soak in the spa tub, and keep up with workouts in the 24-hour fitness center. Free Wi‑Fi covers the property and there are barbecue grills and a common-area TV for low-key hangs. Free self parking makes road trips painless; mornings bring crisp high-desert air and a hot buffet to fuel the day.

Business-friendly setup with complimentary high-speed wired internet, a 24-hour business center and express check-in. Meeting and event space totals about 603 sq ft (56 sq m), plus free parking for attendees.

A complimentary hot-and-cold buffet breakfast is included to start your morning. On-site options include a casual restaurant, a snack bar/deli and a bar for evening downtime after a day of meetings or desert exploring.