Need help planning excursion to Alexandria?

Hello. I am coming from Columbus, OH. I have to make it into the federal courthouse in Alexandria on Sat. I was thinking about flying in on Friday, staying at a hotel, and making my way from there on Sun. morning. Where are the best airports to fly into in that area? where are the best places to stay? Although I don't want to stay in a seedy area, I don' t want to pay an arm and a leg. I went on Priceline.com and looked at some airfares and all the flights are going into Baltimore. Is this the way it usually works. If I fly into Baltimore, how long will it take me to get to Alexandria in the morning? thank you kindly for your information.