8 Best Boston Areas for 2024: Where to Stay & Coolest Hotels

Where to Stay in Boston – Locals Guide

• 1. Best Areas to Stay in Boston for Nightlife

  Fenway

  Why it’s great: Fenway is home to the famous Boston Red Sox as well as the oldest MLB ballpark in America, Fenway Park. This lively and boisterous area is close to many Universities, making it the perfect location to have fun and have a couple drinks throughout your stay. The never-ending bars line the street, and the loud, vibrant atmosphere makes you feel a part of the young Boston community. Be sure to go to a baseball game if the Sox are playing, it is a fantastic experience. Easily go anywhere within the city from Fenway with ease, to enjoy all of Boston.

  Keep in mind: Fenway is completely safe to bring children to see a baseball game, but it may not be suitable for families at nighttime. It will be very loud and probably filled with sports fan who will be drinking a lot. If you want to head to the Fenway area with your family, think about going during the day. However, if you are young and looking for a great time, look no further.

  Our Favorite Hotels for Nightlife

  • Luxury: Hotel Commonwealth

    Sat right in Kenmore Square, it’s time to get your party dress on as you’ll be close to some of the best bars in Boston. With large rooms and bold design, Hotel Commonwealth will live up to your Boston vacation. With a fabulous outdoor area, fun entrance and vibrant atmosphere, this hotel is nothing short of superb. Whether you’re staying for a girls trip or bachelor party, stay central to all the fun!

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  • Mid-Range: Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway

    Sit on the rooftop with an ice cold drink and enjoy the gorgeous city views of Boston all around you. Whether you want to go to your first ever Red Sox game or are planning a weekend in the fenway area, the Residence Inn is a lovely hotel at a great price point. Enjoy complimentary breakfast and wake up in a bright and fresh room in the heart of the city.

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  • Budget: Hilton Boston Back Bay

    With a simple design and affordable rooms, save your money for the bars and great attractions when you stay at the Hilton. Just three blocks from Fenway and located in Back Bay, enjoy a clean room with great amenities while in Boston. Offering a small rooftop, relax with friends and family in this electrifying and thriving city. With classically designed rooms and spacious living, call the Hilton home for a little getaway!

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• 2. Where to Stay in Boston with Family and Kids

  The North End, Back Bay

  Why it’s 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 Boston’s main attractions like the aquarium, Faneuil hall, the waterfront and lots more family friendly activities. These are great family safe areas and since you’re 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 you’re 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.

  Our Favorite Hotels for Families and Kids

  • Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel, Boston

    From luxury suites to gorgeous guest rooms, the Four Seasons is the perfect place to stay with children. With a great location, big open rooms and cozy atmosphere, you’ll most definitely feel safe and happy while away from home. Quickly stroll through the attractions of Boston and with a centralized location you’ll be within walking distance to all major sights. Kiddies will love it and adults will too.

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  • Mid Range: The Lenox

    With classically designed rooms yet boasting a modern twist, the Lenox offers all its guests no matter how young or old a fabulous experience to tell all their friends about! Located in the trendy neighborhood of Back Bay with delicious restaurants and quirky shops, this luxurious hotel will captivate you and your family. Easily go for a morning walk in Boston Common or finish off the day with ice cream from Newbury Street. This hotel is exceptional and appropriately priced.

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  • Budget: Courtyard Boston Downtown/North Station

    This bright and modern Courtyard is perfect for families wanting a weekend away exploring Boston. With great priced rooms and suites, this hotel is great for those on a Budget but still looking for a good time. With a restaurant offering breakfast, lunch and dinner, no details goes unnoticed. This is walking distance from TD garden so any families going to games will love its near perfect location and convenience!

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• 3. Where to Stay in Downtown Boston

  Back Bay, Seaport

  Why it’s great: Seaport has come a long way in the last few years and now has some of the best restaurants, cocktail bars and breweries in Boston. It even has some of the best water views in the whole city. You can’t get any more downtown than Back bay. It has the most beautiful old buildings, is filled with history and has a plethora of attractions like the Boston Library, Public Garden, excellent shopping and much more. Easily stay in downtown and discover all the areas of Boston.

  Keep in mind: These areas are definitely pricey, but they’re so beautiful and perfectly located. Since they have such an ideal location with sites and fantastic restaurants, they will be very busy. Tourists and locals will constantly be coming to these areas as they offer so much.

  Our Favorite Hotels Downtown

  • Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel, Boston

    If you want to pop into Downtown Boston with ease, or you’re looking for a tremendous experience, the Four Seasons can give that to you and more. Offering guests a gym and indoor pool, keep up with your fitness while you’re away or relax in the lush and bright Public Garden that is just a stone’s throw away. With a simple yet elegant design, feel the instant stresses of normal life roll off your back and enjoy a vacation in Boston at the Four Seasons.

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  • Mid Range: The Godfrey Hotel Boston

    This snazzy and sophisticated hotel is a hit among the younger crowd and those looking for a bit of pizzazz. While the rooms remain modern and sleek the dining and reception rooms offer glamor and intrigue. With an unbelievable location Downtown, easily get to Boston Commons, Newbury Street or the Boston Opera House in no time and in style.

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  • Budget: Loews Boston Hotel

    Stay in a building filled with loads of history and curiosity! Loews Boston was once home to the Boston police headquarters and now sits as a spacious and urban hotel. Centrally located between three of Boston’s great neighborhoods, the South End, Back Bay and Theater District easily see all of Boston quickly. Offering classic New England charm in all the rooms, stay for a week or weekend and feel a part of local Boston life.

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• 4. Budget Areas to Stay in Boston that are Safe

  Brighton/Allston

  Why it’s great: Brighton/Allston have some of the cheapest places to stay for budget travelers, where you’ll get great value and comfort for an incredible price. This neighborhood has a huge student population living here, so it has fun bars, cheaper restaurants and younger atmosphere. So, if you’re young and traveling on a budget this is a perfect for you. When you stay in Brighton/Allston you will feel less like a tourist and more like a local Bostonian.

  Keep in mind: Allston and Brighton are places where a lot of college students live. It can be loud, a bit dirty and more grungy. If you are a solo traveler or younger budget traveler this area is great, however I would not suggest to families stay here. It’s also further out from downtown Boston, so you absolutely have to use a car or rely heavily on public transport.

  Our Favorite Budget Hotels

  • Budget #1: AC Hotel by Marriott Boston Cleveland Circle

    Traveling on a budget can be very affordable in Boston especially if you stay in Allston or Brighton. The AC Hotel is perfect for young travelers wanting to see the city and look for a bit of fun around some college campuses. The rooms are clean, sleek and offer great amenities, while there is nothing that sets this hotel apart from the rest, it’s affordable and offers great rooms and service.

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  • Budget #2: HI Boston Hostel

    While there are a few hostels in Boston to choose from, HI Boston is best on the list for price, location and rooms. Choose between staying in a shared dorm or book a private room where you receive a bit more privacy. With an entertaining common room and close proximity to the Boston Common and other fun attractions like Faneuil Hall and the Freedom trail, this is perfect for budget travelers who want to explore this exciting city.

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• 5. Best Locations to Stay in Boston for Sightseeing

  Beacon Hill, Seaport, North End

  Why it’s great: Boston is a fantastic sightseeing city. Beacon Hill and North End are just stunning neighborhoods, filled with history and culture. It’s a bustling area, which still seems quaint and is easily walkable. Start your day relaxing in the commons, then head over to the freedom trail and finish in the North End for a delicious meal. I must say Beacon Hill is one of my favorite areas in Boston, mainly for its historic buildings, cobblestones streets and picturesque lifestyle, it is an absolute must-see location.

  Keep in mind: Since these are the main sightseeing areas, it will be very busy with people and packed at times. If you only want to partake in the sights and attractions, then choose to visit this area but not stay here. Check to see if you can sign up for tours and attractions beforehand, in order to skip the lines and have it be less crowded. Luckily Boston is such a great walking city, that you can see all the sights when you stay in any neighborhood.

  Our Favorite Hotels for Sightseeing

  • Luxury: Boston Harbor Hotel

    Relax on the water at the classic and breathtaking Boston Harbor hotel. Have views in all directions and watch as boats come in and out of the harbor right from your very room. With its identifiable arch and large rooms, open the windows and let in loads of natural light! Treat yourself on your Boston trip and stay at this 5 star hotel that will blow your socks off!

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  • Mid-Range: The Whitney Hotel Boston

    Surrounded by cobblestone streets, bright flowers and historic landmarks, staying in Beacon Hill is the full Bostonian experience. With an intimate feeling and open windows that look out onto the lively and vibrant streets of Beacon Hill, The Whitney is truly special. Close to the Esplanade on the Charles River, feel free to wander around, enjoying stunning buildings, architecture and a drink or two!

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  • Budget: The Bostonian Boston

    With views of the city skyline and sitting among the hustle and bustle of Boston, the Bostonian is a great choice for those wanting to discover the city with ease. With a classic red brick exterior and modern rooms, look out onto the bright city and plan all your explorations. Walk to Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market and The Freedom Trail to see some of Boston’s famous historic sights and watch your step on the glorious and old cobblestone paths.

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• 6. Best Places to Stay in Boston for Walking without a Car

  South End, Back Bay, Downtown

  Why it’s great: Luckily Boston is such a great walking city, that you can see all the sights when you stay in any neighborhood. However, the South End, Back Bay and Downtown all border each other and are easy to access without a car. This area is fun, young and lively, that host incredible bars, restaurants and local shops. Easily spend the day walking through South Ends delicious restaurants or go to Back Bay and Downtown for great shopping on famous Newbury Street or at the Prudential Center. Make sure to grab a coffee and wander around Boston Common to take in the city’s most beautiful park.

  Keep in mind: These areas can get a little rowdy at night with the residents and tourists, but it’s nothing more than people having a good time with dinner and drinks. It’s simply just people enjoying the beauty of Boston, this is perfectly safe to stay with families and children. These are great locations to see Boston while avoiding public transportation and renting a car.

  Our Favorite Hotels that are Walking Accessible

  • Luxury: Fairmont Copley Plaza

    This luxurious hotel is impressive from the moment you enter through the front door! Sitting next to the Boston public library and moments away from top attractions and sights, the Fairmont Copley Plaza is an absolute dream. While rooms can be quite pricey, the service, location and design more than satisfies the price. No detail is left unnoticed and the fabric, marble and intricate architecture is something to be marveled. Easily explore Boston on foot and never look back!

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  • Mid Range: The Eliot Suite Hotel

    If you’re looking for a grand experience, with marble floors, high ceilings and elegance, then the Eliot Suite is perfect for you. With a centralized location, you can quickly find yourself shopping on Newbury Street or grabbing tasty Italian food in the North End in no time! While this hotel will have you feeling like royalty, its intimate atmosphere and tasteful rooms, feels like a home away from home!

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  • Budget: The Revolution Hotel

    Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for a little bit of history mixed with fresh flair, the revolution is the South Ends trendy hotel. With open spaces, fabulous art and extremely affordable rooms this hotel is a steal. Sat in fabulous locations and within walking distance to all major Boston sites, stay in the South end surrounded by fun shops and amazing restaurants.

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• 7. Where to Stay Outside of Boston

  Cambridge, Harvard Square

  Why it’s great: Home to Harvard and MIT, Cambridge has that small town feel, but feels beautifully grand. The first time I went to Cambridge was to visit Harvard Square and I was completely captivated by its historical presence and stunning architecture. Home to old streets, you can easily stroll through the Harvard campus, but make sure to stop off into the campus bookstore for a picturesque day. It’s quaint, tidy and hip scene is perfect for anyone wanting to step out of busy Boston and relax.

  Keep in mind: Although Cambridge has attractions if you want to get to Boston you do either have to drive or take public transport. There is plenty for you to do in Cambridge such as checking out the art scene, restaurants and Ivy League Schools, but I highly suggest exploring Boston for a day too. Plan which days you would like to head into Boston so you can have it scheduled and mapped out.

  Our Favorite Hotels Outside of Boston

  • Luxury: The Charles Hotel in Harvard Square

    While there are so many fabulous hotels to stay at within Boston, if you’re willing to cross the river into Cambridge you will be pleasantly surprised. With not only a stunning yet unbelievable library, it’s not uncommon to see many academics and politicians staying here for its great taste in books and rooms. Stay close to Harvard Square and feel free to wander through the campus within minutes from your hotel room.

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  • Mid Range: Hyatt Regency Boston/Cambridge

    With a quieter feel than Boston, but offering history and charisma, the Hyatt on the Charles River in Cambridge is something to tell your friends about. Having some of the best views of Boston and the city skyline, staying in Cambridge has its appeal. This newly renovated hotel offers fresh rooms and quick access to Charles. Enjoy the hotels restaurants and pop over to Boston with the metro being close to the entrance.

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  • Budget: Hotel Veritas

    If you’re looking for a more boutique and unique experience, I highly suggest staying at Hotel Veritas. With a classic New England feel and intimate setting, this is a lovely place for a romantic getaway or more personal stay. With elegant and graceful touches, a stay here is not only affordable, but memorable. Easily walk around Cambridge or feel free to hop on T and get into Boston.

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• 8. Best Place to Stay for the Boston Marathon

  Back Bay (Copley Square)

  Why it’s great: Did you know that the Boston Marathon is the oldest marathon in the country, beginning in Hopkinton, MA and finishing on Boylston Street, in the heart of Boston. Easily step out of one of these hotels to cheer on the runners as they cross the finish line. During the Boston Marathon expect it to be loud and boisterous as everyone is so happy and proud to be Boston Strong. City spirit will be at an all-time high with such a symbolic day so take in your surroundings and enjoy a monumental celebration.

  Keep in mind: During the Marathon it will be crazy, hectic and busy with people everywhere. I wouldn’t stay too close to the finish line if you have very young children as it may be intense and chaotic. Be prepared for big crowds the day before, during and after the main event.

  Our Favorite Hotels for the Boston Marathon

  • Luxury: The Mandarin Oriental

    Jump out of bed and be within feet of the finish line of the famous Boston Marathon. While this posh and extravagant hotel typically attracts the big spenders, embrace all the frills of the hotels and have yourself a fun Boston Marathon weekend at the Mandarin Orintal. With a homey feel and lively atmosphere, scream and cheer on all the runners at the end of a special event.

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