Hotel package deals a way to cut costs

It pays to shop for hotel packages as opposed to simply considering the basic room rate. Ranging from happy hour drinks to museum tickets, the best offerings keep things fun.

TREATS A recent Four Points by Sheraton promotion included tokens for guests to use for free appetizers and desserts. Mohegan Sun includes cocktail credits with certain room packages.

ACTIVITIES The Revere Hotel Boston Common has an urban art package including a $24 drink credit at the venue's Emerald Lounge and two $15 tickets to the Institute of Contemporary Art.

THEMES Packages often have a theme. Germany's Regent Berlin, for example, offers a scenic driving getaway that includes the use of a stylish Mercedes-Benz vehicle stocked with full picnic supplies and fine china.