Google says free parking but the hotel says upcharge for valet. I've been to some hotels where valet was mandatory. So what's the parking situation here?

There is limited street parking but a very congested area with construction. You are going to want to use valet. I don't remember the exact amount but it was not overly expensive and worth it. We never took the car out until we left because you can walk to lots of restaurants and shops. Ask about the free mall shuttle if you are going to the outlets.

very little limited parking valet is necessary. all it cost us was the tip to valet. we spent about $10.00 a day. You can walk to a lot of different kind of stores and restaurants.