The 15 Best Historic Hotels in Boston (2025)

Boston is the US's oldest city - filled with historical sites such as the 16 stops along The Freedom Trail which include the country's oldest public park and a Revolutionary Battle Site. The city also brims with theatres, museums and restaurants which range from glamorous old-school establishments to cutting-edge modern eateries. Unsurprisingly, many come here for the culture and, therefore, such a trip can only be enriched by booking one of the best historic hotels in Boston. Our hotel experts have scanned the city and picked out their 12 favourites. Ranging from grand five-star establishments to charming B&Bs - there is really something for everyone here. So why not browse through our collection to start planning your stay?

For a five-star property

• Fairmont Copley Plaza is Boston's landmark luxury hotel which has been in operation since 1912. Expect historic glitz and glamour with 5-star service and great amenities. A local favourite for upscale events, the lobby is always buzzing with a chic crowd. An indulgent choice.
• Omni Parker House is a historic hotel stay that has hosted everyone from Charles Dickens and Mark Twain to Malcolm X. Live out Gilded Age fantasies from the minute you enter the vast lobby with its high ceilings and oak panelling. Rooms are classic, colourful & spacious, with all the luxury amenities expected of a 5-star property.
• The Langham, Boston is a five-star occupying the former Federal Reserve Bank in downtown Boston. The elegant rooms exude old school opulence while the collection of bars and restaurants are excellent. Complete with an indoor pool and state-of-the-art spa and fitness suite - this is a has-it-all stay.

For the location

• XV Beacon is a preppy New England frat boy with style; proud, polite but ready to party if you want to. With luxurious rooms (think cashmere throws, gas fireplaces, and Frette linen), fine-dining and a dedicated wine-room this is a smart choice set in the upscale Beacon Hill neighbourhood in a heritage Beaux-Arts building.
• Copley Square Hotel is the oldest hotel in Back Bay - an Italianate building dating from 1891. 143 bold rooms and suites benefit from high ceilings and Art Deco-style furniture, blending historic architecture with modern colours, prints and textiles. A chic choice in a perfectly central location.
• Lenox Hotel is another historic choice in the hip Back Bay area. Spacious rooms are wonderfully old-school with in-room working fireplaces, gilded mirrors and large sash windows with impressive city views. With a choice of bars and restaurants, this central property has it all.
• The Newbury is a mega-luxe hotel steeped in history in the exclusive Back Bay neighbourhood. Dreamy rooms look out over the city's esteemed Public Garden - they are contemporary, airy and exactly where you want to spend a weekend with a significant other. Make sure to dine at the Italian glass-rooftop restaurant.

For foodies

• Once a jail, The Liberty Hotel is now a chic luxury hotel. Interiors are now chic and minimalist but features remain of the original building including cells and even the catwalk. Boasting two of Boston's best fine dining restaurants (innovative modern dishes at CLINK and excellent Italian at Scampo) plus there are knockout cocktails at Alibi. A foodie haven.

For a brownstone

• Step into another world with a stay at The College Club of Boston - a slice of history in well-heeled Back Bay. This 1890 Victorian brownstone's 11 unique rooms were each renovated by a different local designer; think high ceilings, decorative fireplaces and antique furniture. Low in tech, high in charm.
• Beacon Inn is spread across two 19th-century Brownstones. This charming and historic B&B is situated in the Brookline area. Rooms are homely and traditional; think flowery wallpaper, bay windows, polished wooden floors and antique fireplaces. Book for great transport connections to central Boston and excellent rates.
• Feel like a well-heeled local with a stay at this 1881 Brownstone in the coveted Back Bay, Boston neighbourhood. No. 284 is decorated in a chic blue colour scheme which lights up this thoughtful renovation from private home to guesthouse, complete with a curated American art collection, Frette linen and a stylish urban garden.

For a boutique

• The Boxer is a boutique stay perfectly located in the heart of Boston's historic Bulfinch Triangle. Originally built in 1904 (it is the original Flatiron Building), spacious rooms have a loft aesthetic with chic vintage furniture. With the city's main attractions right on the doorstep, this is a convenient and luxurious choice.
• The Kendall is a characterful boutique set in a converted 19th-century brick fire station. Homely bedrooms have a New England feel. The restaurant serves all-American dishes and the bar even serves its own beers. Despite its size (there are 88 rooms) this property has an intimate feel.
• Residence Inn Boston Downtown Seaport is a former factory converted into a boutique-style hotel in the Waterfront district. Trendy exposed brick walls blend with classic and comfortable contemporary decor. In addition to breakfast, a snack bar and food store on-site, all the rooms have kitchenettes, dining and living areas. Ideal for long stays. 
• The Verb Hotel is a classic 1959 hotel, located in Boston’s hip Fenway neighbourhood. The hotel has been painstakingly restored to encapsulate the history and future of Fenway's vibrant music scene. Decor is a perfect marriage of modern style and homage to the area's cultural roots. A characterful and trendy spot. 

Still not sure where to book?

• Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Boston.
• Widen your search to include all our recommendations for the best waterfront hotels in Boston of the best spa hotels in Boston or the best downtown hotels in Boston.
• Alternatively, feel free to call or email one of our gurus for advice.