From the Boston Tea Party to the start of the American Revolutionary War, it’s no understatement to say Boston’s history shaped the world. An intellectual and artistic capital, with some of North America’s most revered writers, composers, artists and visionaries of the 20th century calling Boston home, the Massachusetts capital has established itself as an epicenter of excellence in all aspects.
But it’s not just history and culture that draw people to Boston. With its diverse array of museums, theaters, and iconic landmarks, Boston is also home to a thriving restaurant scene and vibrant nightlife, quickly earning its reputation as the culinary capital of the East Coast.
Of course, after a day of museum hopping and an indulgent and decadent dinner, you need somewhere equally luxurious to rest your head. Elite Traveler has curated a list of the best hotels in Boston, each offering a luxurious retreat in the heart of the city. Whether you’re seeking a historic landmark hotel or a sleek urban oasis, these hotels embody the spirit of Boston.
[See also: The 8 Best Spas in Los Angeles]
Four Seasons Hotel Boston
Sure, it may be Boston’s rich history, vibrant culture and academic excellence that makes this city a landmark on the East Coast, but of equal notable status is the fact that it is one of a handful of cities to house two Four Seasons properties. Choosing between the Four Season Boston and the Four Seasons at One Dalton to feature was a challenge, but it may be the former’s recent renovation that clinches in.
Debuting a dramatic redesign only last year, which saw a spruced lobby, lounge and social spaces plus the addition of the Coterie bar and restaurant, the Four Seasons Boston stands out as a beacon of luxury among its neighboring Back Bay brownstones. If the city’s streets don’t offer enough history, the hotel’s elegant and timeless design of marble flooring and accented ceiling will greet guests into an Art Deco escape.
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Top Suite: The Royal Suite
The clue may be in its name, but The Royal Suite is the true embodiment of pure opulence and elegance. Offering unparalleled luxury, the 2,590 sq ft suite features lavish furnishings, expansive living and social spaces, all looking out over breathtaking views of Boston Public Garden. Guests are treated to bespoke amenities, including a private terrace, personal concierge service, a baby grand piano and access to a dedicated lounge.
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The Langham
In the heart of the city’s Financial District, The Langham’s opulence shines. Housed in the former Federal Reserve Bank building, this historic hotel seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern sophistication. The timeless and tasteful design is a perfect fit for the extravagant exterior, with its marble floors, sparkling chandeliers and impeccable service setting the stage for an unforgettable stay.
Sure, Boston may already lay claim as America’s most walkable city, but The Langham’s position puts the city’s best attractions, such as Faneuil Hall, the Old State House, the North End, Boston Harbor and Seaport, mere steps away. For dining options, head to the former Federal Reserve Bank’s grand hall, where the Grana serves classic Italian family dishes, meanwhile, the British-inspired cocktail bar The Fed honors The Langham’s roots by the glassful, served with a New England twist.
Top Suite: Chairman Suite
The height of luxury and sitting on the top floor of the hotel, you’ll find the Chairman Suite. While the suite’s showstopping amenities such as the full walk-in closet, fireplace and a piano, are sure to impress, it’s the suite’s smaller touches that ensure a memorable stay. There is the not-so-mini minibar, which is stocked with local beers, craft ciders and the Langham’s special edition Bully Boy Gin.
The Ritz-Carlton, Boston
Don’t get me wrong, if you’re coming to Boston, chances are you are coming for the city’s history. But even so, sometimes we all need a bit of contemporary luxury and glam. Enter the Ritz-Carlton Boston. Despite its long-standing roots in the city, first arriving in Boston in 1927, a 2001 regeneration saw the hotel transform into the form of a sleek 35-floor tower.
Found in Downtown Crossing, opposite Boston Common, the hotel serves as an urban oasis, where the caramel-hued marble lobby with moody lighting and an elongated Art Deco bar make for an impressive first impression. Additional hotel features include the Avery Bar, with its signature martinis and mid-century glamour, and the adjoining Equinox Sports Club.
Top Suite: Presidential Suite
While each of the hotel’s 193 rooms features expansive views and sleek styling, for unparalleled luxury, look no further than the Presidential Suite. This expansive retreat features opulent furnishing, a private terrace and panoramic views of the Boston Common and Public Garden. Guests of the Presidential Suite enjoy exclusive access to personalized concierge services, a dedicated butler, and an array of VIP amenities, ensuring an unforgettable stay in the lap of luxury.
Raffles Boston
When picking a city for Raffles’ North American debut, Boston may come as somewhat of a surprise. Sure, it might not seem as flashy as Miami or glitzy like New York, but the 135-year-old Singapore-originated brand and the historic New England capital have more in common than you may expect: all about classical elegance, neither is afraid of being overshadowed by bolder and brasher competitors. After facing various pandemic-related delays, the hotel opened its doors to much-awaited fanfare in 2023, and in that time has quickly established itself among New England’s premier lodgings.
With five dining options, there’s plenty to get excited about. At the signature restaurant Amar, chef George Mendes showcases his Portuguese heritage within his menu of New England staples, with dishes such as Maine lobster with Azorean pineapple, shellfish custard and crusty bread. To wash that down, head to the speak-easy-style Blind Duck, a playful nod to Bostain’s Puritan days, for the signature Boston Sling, a New England reinvention of their signature Singaporean export.
The Raffles Suite
Sitting on the 14th floor, not only is the Raffles Suite the hotel’s top room – and not just because it offers some of the best views of Boston – but it was also picked among Elite Traveler’s Top City Suites in the world. It’s easy to understand why. Spanning over 2,000 sq ft, the lavish accommodation has an expansive living room, complete with a baby grand piano and a dining table that comfortably seats up to 10 guests. The suite can be connected to two adjoining rooms to accommodate larger groups.
Mandarin Oriental Boston
The Mandarin Oriental Boston seamlessly blends the brand’s signature Eastern elegance with Boston’s New England charm, offering discerning travelers an unparalleled experience of opulence and refinement in Boston’s affluent Back Bay neighborhood. From the moment guests step into the lobby, they are greeted by a sense of tranquility and grace. With a design that pulls from Art Deco and Art Nouveau influences, expect plush furnishing, wood accents and contemporary artwork that wouldn’t be amiss in one of Boston’s many galleries.
For amenities, Gordon Ramsay spearheads the Mandarin Oriental’s dining options, with Ramsay’s Kitchen serving a refined yet approachable take on American fare, and of course, being a Mandarin Oriental, we can’t forget to mention the luxurious spa, consistently ranked as one of the best in the state.
Top Suite: Back Bay Corner Suite
Entering the Mandarin Oriental Boston’s signature suite, its name becomes immediately obvious. With expansive windows that offer panoramic views of the city skyline, this suite occupies a premier vantage point across Back Bay and Boston as a whole. Of course, when you’re not distracted by the breathtaking views, the suite’s amenities provide a comfortable and residential-style stay, with a spacious living and dining room that features two sofa seating areas, a four-seat dining table and a custom kitchenette.
[See also: The 10 Best Hotels and Suites in Chicago]
