As America approaches its 250th anniversary next year, attention is turning to the places where the nation began—and few cities embrace their history as proudly as Boston. Long a center for commerce, healthcare, and education, the city is now quietly and confidently transforming into a hub for arts, culture, and dining.
This shift is especially visible in Boston’s hotel scene—so much so that Raffles, the Singapore-based luxury brand, chose it for its first North American location in 2023. Across this highly walkable city, historic brownstones stand alongside modern skyscrapers, each honoring New England’s rich past in its own way. Every neighborhood offers a distinct perspective, from the historic charm of Back Bay to the scenic waterfront.
Vogue’s Top Boston Hotels
– For Central Luxury: The Newbury Boston
– For Classic Boston: Four Seasons Hotel Boston
– For Waterfront Access: Boston Harbor Hotel
– For Minimalist Style: The Whitney Hotel
– For Nightlife: Raffles Boston
Whether you’re visiting for college tours, shopping, or simply strolling the picturesque brick-lined streets, Boston is ready to welcome you. Here are the best hotels in the city right now for a stylish stay.
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The Newbury Boston
📍 1 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02116
Its prime location at the top of Boston’s premier shopping street is just one reason to love this hotel. Designed by Alexandra Champalimaud, the elegant rooms feature sleek finishes and neutral tones that perfectly frame sweeping views of the Public Garden.
Amenities: Frette linens, marble bathrooms, fireplace suites (with wood provided), rooftop restaurant, 24-hour room service, fitness center
Insider Tip: Reserve a table at Contessa, the stylish rooftop restaurant designed by Ken Fulk.
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Boston Harbor Hotel
📍 70 Rowes Wharf, Boston, MA 02110
No hotel captures the beauty of Boston’s waterfront quite like this one. With a nautical theme and many rooms offering water views, it’s centrally located near major attractions yet feels peaceful and removed from the city bustle. In winter, don’t miss the Boston Wine & Food Festival, hosted here from January to March.
Amenities: Waterfront views, 24-hour room service, restaurants, bar and lounge, on-site café, gift shop featuring women-owned small businesses
Insider Tip: Arrange a water taxi from Logan Airport for a memorable arrival.
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Fairmont Copley Plaza
📍 138 St James Ave, Boston, MA 02116
Overlooking the historic (and recently renovated) Copley Square, this hotel shares its architectural roots with New York’s Plaza Hotel—both designed by Henry Janeway Hardenbergh. From the original mosaic lobby tiles to the “double P” monograms, the Beaux Arts grandeur and impeccable Fairmont service make it a beloved Boston landmark in the heart of Back Bay.
Amenities: Rooftop fitness center, 24-hour room service, pet-friendly policy, concierge, meeting rooms, and Cori Copley—the hotel’s canine ambassador
Insider Tip: Enjoy a refined high tea at the Courtyard Tea Room in the Boston Public Library, just across the street.
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Raffles Boston
The international luxury brand Raffles made a grand entrance into North America with this stunning new property, which opened in 2023. Located in…The 17th-floor sky lobby is one of the city’s most stunning and glamorous spaces. After dark, the hotel buzzes with energy as the city’s most stylish crowd gathers at its restaurants, Amar and La Padrona.
Amenities include 24-hour butler service, in-room dining, a Guerlain spa, an indoor pool, a fitness center, and multiple restaurants and bars.
Editor’s Tip: Don’t miss booking a treatment at the aromatherapy-focused Guerlain Spa—one of the best in the city.
Address: 40 Trinity Place, Boston, MA 02116
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The Eliot Hotel has a charming, almost Parisian feel. Housed in a beautiful 1920s building at the corner of Commonwealth and Massachusetts Avenues, it offers mostly suites with French doors, separate living areas, crown moldings, and plenty of natural light. The rooms have a comfortable yet luxurious vibe, with a level of privacy that’s rare in a city hotel. It’s ideal for those who want space and seclusion without compromising on location.
Amenities include valet parking, same-day dry cleaning, and access to an off-site fitness center.
Editor’s Tip: Reserve a table at UNI, one of Boston’s top sushi spots, located right on the ground floor.
Address: 370 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02215
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The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is a must for history lovers. Once a 19th-century jail, it’s now one of Boston’s most architecturally striking hotels. With its grand rotunda, soaring catwalks, and lively nightlife, the former Charles Street Jail has become a hotspot that’s both historic and hip. Locals flock here for craft cocktails and to watch the scene unfold in the rotunda—a captivating mix of scandalous past and modern glamour.
Amenities include five restaurants and bars, a fitness center, concierge service, pet-friendly policies, event spaces, and complimentary Wi-Fi for Bonvoy members.
Editor’s Tip: From September through May, the Liberty hosts a weekly “Fashionably Late” fashion show in the lobby on most Thursdays, showcasing local designers and boutiques.
Address: 215 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114
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After a vibrant lobby refresh by Ken Fulk, the Four Seasons Hotel Boston feels more current than ever. It’s as decadent and luxurious as you’d expect from the brand, yet still playful and welcoming. Behind the check-in desk, a “Mystery Closet” is stocked with toys for young guests, and each floor has “vaults” filled with complimentary candy. Despite its grandeur, the hotel maintains a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Amenities include house bikes, electric vehicle service, complimentary candy vaults, an indoor pool, 24-hour in-room dining, and a restaurant.
Editor’s Tip: The ground-floor brasserie lounge, Coterie, is perfect for a snack and a martini before catching a Boston Ballet performance just a few blocks away.
Address: 200 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02116
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No boutique hotel in Boston blends contemporary style and classic elegance quite like XV Beacon. Every detail is carefully considered, from 24-hour valet and laundry services to its renowned Clefs d’Or concierge. The bathrooms are especially luxurious, featuring white Italian marble, heated towel racks, and oversized rainforest showerheads. Some rooms even include Jacuzzi tubs with complimentary bath salts.
Amenities include in-room fireplaces (in select rooms), pet-friendly policies, and valet parking.
Editor’s Tip: Through a partnership with Audi, the hotel offers house cars to chauffeur guests around the city.
Address: 15 Beacon St, Boston, MA 02108
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The Whitney Hotel feels more like staying at a fabulous friend’s townhome than a traditional hotel. Its minimalist, sleek rooms are made even more inviting with…Special rooms feature plush beds, Frette linens, and bathrooms stocked with luxurious Grown Alchemist products.
Amenities: Frette linens, complimentary house bikes, fitness center access, on-site restaurant
Editor’s Tip: The hotel’s newly renovated Mediterranean restaurant, Peregrine, is perfect for a power lunch between shopping trips on Charles Street.
Address: 170 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114
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Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston
Courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel
Boston is one of the few cities with two Four Seasons hotels, and One Dalton offers a completely different experience from the original location near the Public Garden. This hotel occupies a sleek skyscraper at the intersection of Back Bay, South End, and Fenway. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide stunning city views, making it an ideal choice for travelers who prefer modern luxury.
Amenities: Spa and wellness floor, indoor pool, fitness center, restaurant, 24-hour in-room dining
Editor’s Tip: Request the Charles Suite, a unique space with a wraparound terrace perfect for entertaining.
Address: 1 Dalton St, Boston, MA 02199
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The Verb Hotel
Courtesy of Verb Hotel
This charming hotel, set in a former mid-century motor inn, is located in the rapidly evolving Fenway neighborhood—so close to Fenway Park that you might catch a stray ball from the pool courtyard. The decor celebrates Boston’s music history with vintage vinyl and memorabilia. Plus, the area’s best bars and restaurants are just steps away.
Amenities: Heated outdoor pool, in-room record players, vinyl library, on-site restaurant and bar
Editor’s Tip: For a truly unique and Instagram-worthy stay, upgrade to one of the Backstage Trailers: custom-designed Airstreams with private outdoor seating, a rare find in the city center.
Address: 1271 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02215
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Mandarin Oriental, Boston
Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental
This elegant hotel sits at the heart of Boylston Street and connects directly to the Prudential Center shopping mall. It showcases the brand’s signature Asian-inspired design and exceptional service. The spa is one of Boston’s best, offering an extensive menu of facials and massages—be sure to explore their curated “Wellness Retreats” (ranging from one to five days) for a focused and memorable experience.
Amenities: Spa, Tesla house car service, fitness center, in-room dining, personal shopping services, restaurant
Editor’s Tip: Reserve a Back Bay Corner Suite, which includes a spacious living and dining area with a kitchenette. Connecting rooms are available for groups.
Address: 776 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199
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Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of helpful FAQs about the top historic hotels in Boston for an authentic stay
General Information
Q What makes a hotel historic in Boston
A Generally its a hotel housed in a building thats at least 50 years old has significant architectural character and often played a role in the citys history Many are designated landmarks
Q Why should I choose a historic hotel over a modern one
A For a unique immersive experience You get charm classic architecture and a direct connection to Bostons past which you cant find in a standard chain hotel
Q Are these historic hotels actually comfortable or are they just old
A The best ones are beautifully restored They perfectly blend historic charm with modern comforts like updated bathrooms WiFi and air conditioning
Booking Practicalities
Q Do historic hotels cost more than regular hotels
A They can as youre paying for the unique experience and prime location However prices vary widely and you can often find deals especially during offpeak seasons
Q I have mobility issues Are historic hotels accessible
A This is a common concern Due to their age and protected status some may have limitations Always call the hotel directly to inquire about elevator access room configurations and ADAcompliant features before booking
Q Is parking available at these hotels
A Parking in downtown Boston is limited and expensive Most historic hotels offer valet parking for a daily fee but its often recommended to use public transportation
Specifics Recommendations
Q Can you name a few of the most famous historic hotels in Boston
A Certainly Some iconic ones include The Omni Parker House The Fairmont Copley Plaza and The Liberty Hotel
Q Which historic hotel is best for firsttime visitors who want to be in the middle of everything
A The Boston Park Plaza is a great choice Its centrally located in Back Bay within walking distance of the Public Garden Newbury Street shopping and the theater district