The 10 Best Hotels In Boston
Boston is the capital of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and known for history, culture and … cuisine.
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Americas history is one of booms and busts, cities that come and go, but Boston has never wavered. Today, people pass through the nearly 400-year-old city for all sorts of reasonsto see sights like the freedom trail and Fenway Park, for biotech and healthcare business and to visit students going to college.
But while Boston is fiercely proud of its history, it isnt stuck in the past. Its a vibrant place where religions, cultures and diverse communities coexist where glass skyscrapers go up seemingly overnight, and where the food and drink scene continues to raise the bar. If youre looking for an authentic Boston experience, selecting the right hotel as your launching off point can make all the difference. Here, we walk through the eight best hotels in Boston.
Who Will Love It: Fashion and design lovers who want to be within easy reach of the citys best boutiques
All-Star Amenities: Wood-burning fireplaces exclusive library for guests large residence-like guest rooms and suites
What Not To Miss: Dinner at Ken Fulk-designed Contessa after-dinner drinks at the Street Bar
Location: Beacon Hill
Best Boston Neighborhood For Families And History Lovers: The North End
Boston is filled with history, especially pertaining to the American Revolution. The Freedom Trail is one of Americas best historic trails, taking you from Boston Common to the Charlestown Navy Yard, hitting dozens of places of historical importance along the way, like the Boston Massacre Site, Faneuil Hall, and Paul Reveres house.
While lots of neighborhoods are adjacent to the Freedom Trail, I recommend the North End because its one of the oldest and prettiest residential neighborhoods in Boston. The historic buildings are wonderful, too.
Additionally, youll be among Bostons best historic sites, from Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market to the Old North Church and the Boston Tea Party Ships! And if youre up for a more energetic walk, you can easily reach the Boston Childrens Museum.
The North End is also Bostons traditionally Italian neighborhood. Youll find plenty of Italian shops and restaurants, plus longtime residents who speak primarily Italian with each other.
Some of my top recommendations: Mamma Maria for the best fine Italian dining, Giacomos for the best casual Italian dining, Caffe Vittoria for cappuccino, and Modern Pastry for cannolis and pastries.
I also think the North End is the best neighborhood in Boston for families with kids because it puts you near lots of kid-friendly attractions and great locations for picky eaters. You can always find someone to make buttered noodles or dish up pizza!
Best Hotel In Chinatown: Doubletree By Hilton Hotel Boston Downtown
The DoubleTree by Hilton is a comfortable and luxurious hotel in Chinatown offering a restaurant, bar, and fitness center. The rooms are clean, spacious and outfitted with modern amenities. A short walk from the hotel, youll find the Boston Commons, shops, and restaurants, so its one of the best hotels for location.
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Why We Recommend This Hotel
Boston Harbor Hotel counts as one of the five-star hotels in Boston captivating peoples attention.
Its iconic 60-foot stone archway further accentuates the beauty of the property.
Beyond the stellar architecture, the indoor amenities would also stun you even more coupled with the hospitality of the hotel staff.
All rooms, in addition, have picturesque views of the city or the harbor.
Jacuzzi comes as a bonus.
Its also one of the best hotels in Boston for families who would like to try sightseeing tours on a classic yacht.
Just ask the management for assistance to help you see the finest historic sights right around Bostonyou wont regret having this experience.
Boston, MA 02199 535-8888
Eastern vibe has come alive at the Mandarin Oriental in Boston since its opening in 2008.
Close to 150 spacious guest rooms fill the property, one of the luxury hotels in the Boston area.
The North End Back Bay
Why its great: The North End, otherwise, knows as Little Italy, does not only have great Italian food, but is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Boston. This area has beautiful cobblestone streets, is rich in culture and close to attractions. Back Bay is pretty much in the center of Boston, making it perfect for exploring with children. Both of these locations are close to the Bostons main attractions like the aquarium, Faneuil hall, the waterfront and lots more family friendly activities. These are great family safe areas and since youre centrally located you can get away with walking to most places or using public transportation.
Keep in mind: These areas can be a bit pricier, but youre paying for location. Both the North End and Back Bay are rich in culture and easy to get between locations or attractions. If you choose this area expect it to be busy with tourists who also want to see the sites.
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Best Restaurants In Downtown Boston
- Yvonnes $$$ Fun, glam, wild food and drinks in a historic setting. Great for celebrating a special occasion. Reservations recommended.
- Jade Garden $$ Simple and well-executed Chinese menu in a casual setting. Open until 2 a.m.
- RUKA $$$ Bold flavors in this new restaurant, specializing in nikkei and chifa cuisines. Reservations recommended.
Hyatt Centric Faneuil Hall
68 Devonshire Street, Bostons Downtown Financial District
Hyatt Centric Faneuil Market offers a fantastic downtown Boston location in the Financial District. Youre just a 5-minute walk from Faneuil Marketplace, the Boston Harbor Waterfront, and the historic Freedom Trail, and the Waterfront an ideal location for business travelers as well as tourists. Youre also about 8-10 minutes on foot from TD Garden where you can catch a Bruins or Celtics game and star-studded concerts.
The 163 guestrooms and suites offer free wifi, smart TVs, bluetooth speakers, robes and slippers, and all the other amenities youd expect in a high-end hotel. The hotels onsite Bar Mercato gets high marks for its small plates and relaxed ambiance.
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The Alise Boston Staypineapple Quirky Cool Design Hotel
This new and already highly rated Alise Hotel Boston to the city is so focused on offering spotlessly clean accommodation, it even invites its visitors to dare to bare. We kid you not! Take them up on their offer and enjoy Scandinavian duvets atop of sumptuously soft beds, in small but well laid out bedrooms.
If you would like to reclothe and join your fellow guests, you can fill your boots in The Trophy Room an American bistro that also offers craft cocktails, draught beer, and a selection of wines.
Located in the citys historic South End, the European-style boutique hotel is just a few minutes walk from the Back Bay area in Boston, while the shops and gourmet restaurants of Newbury Street are just a 10-minute walk away a cool and funky choice!
- To book, check prices or availability for The Alise Boston
Best Boston Neighborhood Overall: Back Bay
If you can stay in any neighborhood in Boston, my top recommendation is Back Bay. This neighborhood is pretty much the dead center of Boston youre never far from anything. It also has some of the best hotels.
Back Bay is home to some of the priciest real estate in town, as well as some of the best shopping. And youre steps from Bostons top tourist attractions, like the Boston Public Library, Trinity Church, and the Boston Public Garden, as well as the Boston Marathon finish line at Copley Square.
Newbury Street is home to luxury shops and indie boutiques as well as plenty of sidewalk cafes. On a warm day in Boston, this is one of the best places to dine outside. One of my favorite streets in Boston is Back Bays Marlborough Street, filled with beautiful brownstones . And if youre set on shopping, Boylston Street, the shops at the Prudential, and Copley Plaza are home to all the big brands.
To the north of Back Bay is the Esplanade, where you can run, picnic, or catch a summer concert at the Hatchshell. And youre still within walking distance of the Theatre District, Boston Common and the State House, the restaurants and bars of Tremont Street, and the art museums of Fenway.
The neighborhood of Back Bay borders the South End, Fenway, the Theatre District, and the Public Garden with easy access to Beacon Hill. The green line has several stops here and the 1 bus gives you the fastest way to Cambridge.
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The Liberty A Luxury Collection Hotel
Who Will Love It: Those who love a bumping hotel lobby bar
All-Star Amenities: Running concierge energy efficient guest rooms fitness center
What Not To Miss: Dinner at Scampo drinks in a converted jail cell at Clink
Location: Beacon Hill
In a city where most buildings have rich history, The Liberty still stands out: It served as the infamous Charles Street Jail from 1851 until 1990, before undergoing extensive refurbishment and opening as a luxury hotel in 2007. Today, the rooms are much more comfortable with cheeky touches like a safe that doubles as a nightstand, a do-not-disturb sign that says Solitary, and throw pillows printed with tally marks. The main attraction is the hotels soaring lobbya 90-foot central atrium with glass roof and 30-foot glass windows . Its no wonder that stylish Bostonians can always be found having an evening drink at the Liberty.
Best Restaurants In The Seaport District
- Yankee Lobster Company $ No frills diner serving super fresh seafood. Bostons best lobster roll and clam chowder.
- Harpoon Brewery and Beer Hall $ Great beer on tap and fresh, handmade pretzels. Brewery tours available and highly recommended.
- Committee $$ Mediterranean tapas and seasonal cocktails.
- Blue Dragon $$ East-West pub fare, served tapas style.
- KO Catering and Pies $ Delicious Aussie takeout joint, specializing in savory meat and veggie pies.
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Best Airbnb In Jamaica Plain: Airy Light
If youre planning a family vacation to Boston, then you should check out this large family home in Jamaica Plain. Up to seven visitors can sleep in this remodeled house, which comes complete with a large kitchen/diner, living area, and garden. Theres plenty of space for everyone to run around in, and all the comforts of home to make your trip as easy as possible.
Beacon Hill Upscale And Expensive Place To Stay In Boston
Welcome to picture-perfect Boston when you step foot in Beacon Hill. This neighborhood is characterized by its steep streets lit by antique lanterns,epic Victorian estates and Federal-style row houses.
The most iconic building in Beacon Hill is the gold-domed Massachusetts State House. Beacon Hill is adjacent to Boston Common.
Things get really posh once you get to Charles Street. This is where youll find world-class dining, antique shops and boutiques. You will also come upon the formal Public Garden and the Charles River Esplanade.
The waterfront area of Beacon Hill is a great place to catch some outdoor concerts in the summer. Boston Common features a skating pond in the winter.
This is an extremely upscale and desirable neighborhood. Its also one of the most expensive places to stay in Boston. Visitors can choose from a wide variety of luxury and boutique hotels.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN BEACON HILL
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Things To See And Do In Chinatown
- Excite your sense at Shabu-Zen, where you can enjoy authentic Asian Hot-Pot cuisine.
- Eat delicious dumplings at Gourmet Dumpling House.
- Sample a myriad of dishes and delicacies at Winsor Dim Sum Café.
- Dance the night away at Bijou, an 1882 former theatre that is now a sleek late-night club.
- Spend a night drinking and dancing at Guilt, a chic and stylish nightclub.
- Visit Royale, the biggest nightclub in New England.
- Sip and sample a vast selection of cocktails at The Ghost Walks bar.
- Explore the bustling and vibrant Theatre District section of Chinatown.
- Enjoy bright lights and the citys best DJs at Tunnel, Bostons hottest underground nightclub.
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Beacon Hill Hotel Sleek Bostonian Charm
Located in the heart of the historic and upscale Beacon Hill district of the city, the highly-rated Beacon Hill Hotel and Bistro sits comfortably in the narrow, gas-lit streets and brick sidewalks that are so quintessentially Bostonian.
The modern guest rooms offer simple yet sleek New England interiors with cute plantation shutters and all mod cons, whilst the small hotel itself is almost as famous for its bistro as it is for its upmarket accommodation.
Guests can dine out on carefully crafted plates of contemporary cuisine, sip cocktails at the bar or relax on the cool roof terrace. The hip Boston hotel is also close to Boston Park and Common, so you will feel fully ensconced in one of the most sought-after and upmarket areas of the city! Nice!
- To book, check prices or availability for Beacon Hill Hotel and Bistro
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Omni Parker House Boston
The luxurious Omni Parker Hotel, built in 1855, is Boston’s most historic hotel, where Emerson, Thoreau, Hawthorne, and Longfellow routinely met, dined, and drank.
The hotel’s location on the Freedom Trail puts you just steps away from Boston Common, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and other top attractions, yet you’re also next to the Financial District.
Be sure to stop by Parker’s Restaurant for a taste of the Omni Parker’s famous contributions to American cuisine: Parker House rolls and Boston Cream Pie.
W Hotel Boston A Hip Sexy And Very Instagrammable Contemporary Design Hotel
Centrally situated in the heart of Bostons historic central theatre district and set in a super swish glass high-rise building, the 4-star exceptionally rated W Hotel offers vibrant boutique hotel accommodation and innovative interiors. As a hotel that focuses on the social aspect of staying in the city, you are more than welcome to mingle in the W Lounge with a cocktail or two, whilst soaking up sounds from the resident DJ, or dine in comfort in the onsite Gallery restaurant.
The trendy rooms at this cool and sexy Boston hotel feature Bose mini speakers, pillow-top beds, flat-screen TVs, ergonomic chairs and very cool floor-to-ceiling windows with city views. Suites are truly sumptuous with living space, soaking tubs and even fitness equipment.
The trendsetting Boston accommodation also offers an award-winning spa facility to help you unwind after a busy day exploring the city as well as a sleek restaurant crossed with an art gallery, a glam cocktail bar and a modern 24-hour fitness centre nice!
- To book, check prices or availability for W Hotel Boston
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South Boston Neighborhood With Reasonable Rates
The working-class, Irish-American vibe of Boston that was immortalized in the movie Good Will Hunting can still be felt as soon as you enter South Boston. Of course, this densely populated is now a favorite spot among working professionals.
This neighborhood is home to the South Boston Waterfront. This bustling seaport area holds 78 restaurants and eight hotels.
Some of the top attractions to see in the neighborhood include the South Boston Maritime Park, the Boston Childrens Museum, the Institute of Contemporary Art, the Raymond L. Flynn Marine Park and Castle Island Park.
Youll notice new constructions going up all around you if you decide to stay in this neighborhood on the rise. Its still possible to find some reasonable hotel rates here. However, more and more upscale hotels are moving in.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SOUTH BOSTON
Best Hostel In Boston: Hi Boston Hostel
Boston has added a few hostels over the past few years, and the best one Ive seen so far is HI Boston Hostel. Here you have single-sex and mixed dorms in addition to some private ensuite rooms. The building was designed for environmental sustainability and they are currently awaiting LEED certification. There is a comfortable common room on the ground floor and there are Bostonian touches everywhere, like shower curtains with the map of the T on them.
If youre looking to meet people, this is a great place because there are so many group activities! Join your fellow travelers for a Harvard campus tour, a day at the Museum of Fine Arts, a walk along the Freedom Trail, a brewery tour, or even Boston Movie Night. There is also an emphasis on community outreach and volunteering.
HI Boston Hostel is located in the Theatre District, very close to Boston Common and Chinatown and a short walk from the South End and Back Bay.
Other recommended Boston hostels:
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Boston Insider Tip: Who Lives Downtown
Unlike many American cities where the downtown business districts empty out at 5pm as everyone heads home to the suburbs, Boston’s downtown neighborhood is home a sizeable number of residents – and the number keeps growing as construction of high-rise residential towers races to meet the housing demands of people who want to live here.
So if you’re staying in a hotel in this part of the city, enjoy the amenities that residents enjoy: a vibrant entertainment scene in the many theaters and concert venues, fantastic restaurants and wine bars, the Boston Harbor waterfront just 5 minutes away on foot , Bruins and Celtics games at nearby TD Garden, weekend dim sum in Chinatown, and tennis courts and impromptu soccer games on Boston Common.