Thanks, ga-zillions! You've made me re-think our plans.
I wanted to stay close to the airport because:
a) I always have, which isn't always the best reason to do something
b) we have a very early flight out to London on Sunday morning and we can actually sleep for an extra bit, if we don't have to be ready and waiting for the shuttle/taxi/whatever wheels we choose. I was actually looking forward to a short cab ride to the airport, or the even shorter hike from the Sheraton to the terminal.

I get it, though, about the sterile atmosphere surrounding the airport hotels. With a 17 year old with me, downtown just might be the best thing for both of us.

I'll give this some thought and come back to you for your suggestions about a great hotel/inn/B & B in the downtown area...I've only stayed with family in the downtown area. Thanks, again!:-:

"And that's the wonderful thing about family travel: it provides you with experiences that will remain locked forever in the scar tissue of your mind." ~ Dave Barry