The 10 Best Boutique Boston Hotels of 2020

Located in the historic Beacon Hill neighborhood, the 63-room, XV Beacon is a gorgeous, turn-of-the-century Beaux Arts building showcasing cast-iron, Roman brick and limestone. Gaze at the hotel’s stunning art collection, cozy up by the gas fireplace or melt into a dreamy four poster bed. Other premium room amenities include surround sound, iHome docking stations, plush robes and Italian marble baths complete with heated towel racks. A fabulous onsite steakhouse also serves breakfast and Sunday brunch, or choose in-room dining for a lazy day. Guests can also unwind in the rooftop deck's Jacuzzi. TripAdvisor members also loved the impeccable service, courtesy car and that the hotel is pet friendly. 

As one of the more reasonably-priced Boston boutique hotels, the 39-room EnVision Hotel is located in a residential area (Longwood) and is a popular choice among budget-conscious travelers. As part of the Choice Hotel chain, EnVision blends upscale furnishings with the charm of a historic building. An evening get-together is hosted during the week with tea, soups, sandwiches or desserts (options change daily) free of charge for guests, plus fire pits for s’more roasting. Modern rooms and suites have pillow-top mattresses, iHome docking stations, Keurig coffee makers and comfy robes and slippers. TripAdvisor members noted that the hotel is spotlessly clean, but felt that the parking fees were not clearly communicated before arrival. 

If you and your friends have tickets to a game at Fenway Park, then the 94-room Verb Hotel is just the place for your home base while exploring Boston. Located steps from the famous stadium, The Verb was once a once a 1959 motor lodge, and now sports a rock-and-roll motif. Rooms have a minimum of 300 square feet with music memorabilia, colorful tinted glass windows and chic, retro décor. The high-energy, Japanese tavern and restaurant at the hotel has won several awards for its food and cocktails. TripAdvisor members noted that the hotel can be noisy at times, particularly in the rooms surrounding the pool area (in the central atrium), but the hotel provides earplugs. 

With a prime location in the Bulfinch Triangle in the heart of downtown Boston, the 80-room Boxer Boston places steps from the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere’s House and plenty of shops and restaurants (including the Union Oyster House, Boston’s oldest establishment). A free breakfast is included with every stay, as are bike rentals to explore the city. Industrial-chic rooms and suites have vintage lighting fixtures, modern amenities and baths with custom-designed vanities and Calcutta marble. Valet parking is an additional charge, but there is also a garage across the street.

Traveling with kids in tow? Make Hotel Marlowe your home base. This stylish Kimpton retreat is located across from the Museum of Science observatory and if you're staying at the hotel you can even use the telescopes free of charge (the kids will surely love taking a look at other planets in our solar system). Other perks geared toward children include welcome treats, a free lending library of books, as well as free use of the hotel's kayaks and bicycles. Rooms have cherry wood furnishings and pops of red, mustard, black and beige. If parents need some downtime they can head to Kimpton's signature nightly happy hour from 5 to 6 p.m. The hotel's Bambara Kitchen + Bar is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and cooks up regional New American cuisine. 

Set on the harbor with lovely waterfront views, the four-diamond, Envoy Hotel may be the pioneer of a trendy new neighborhood. Soak in the scenery and sparkling skyline from the rooftop bar, an inviting lounge space where you can mingle with other guests. Most of the 136 rooms and suites are oriented toward the water – many with floor-to-ceiling (or corner) windows, and have unique design elements (think television stands fashioned from a bicycles, wallpaper made from magazine scraps or metal penny tiles). The Outlook Kitchen and Bar serves up local dishes and has a trendy urban setting, as well as a live music series. TripAdvisor members noted that the rooftop bar is open late, so ask for a room away from the bar if you have to be up early. 

The 95-room, Eliot Hotel is an elegant, European-style sleep right near Newbury Street, one of the best shopping areas in Boston. Rooms and suites are extremely spacious and have Old World décor, premium bedding with down pillows, as well as nightly turndown and room service. Opulent design touches (French doors between rooms and Italian marble baths) set a romantic tone. The award-winning Uni restaurant serves Japanese cuisine and late-night ramen in a sleek and inviting setting. TripAdvisor members consistently raved about the impressive, five-star service they received from staff members.

If you’re the solo traveler who appreciates the comforts of home, then the studio suites at the Inn at St. Botolph are perfect. Housed in a historic building in Boston’s Back Bay, the hotel has 16 elegant, modern rooms that feel like mini apartments (with full kitchens, four poster beds, docking stations and rain shower baths). Unwind in the cozy lounge or sneak a workout in at the fitness center. Added conveniences include keyless entry, snacks, espresso or tea in the lobby, personalized housekeeping (on request) and self-serve laundry. TripAdvisor members loved the convenient location near transit, restaurants and shops.

If you’re a traveler who likes charming, intimate settings and a chance to meet other travelers than the Newbury guesthouse is wonderful option. Set in a gorgeous, 19th century townhouse in Boston’s Back Bay, guests can meander the cafes, art galleries and boutiques of Newbury Street or visit the famous Trinity Church. The 32-room guesthouse has four room categories on three floors, with premium bedding, mini refrigerators and fresh, modern décor. Breakfast is included with every stay, although options are the same each day. TripAdvisor members loved the location within walking distance to many attractions, the friendly staff, cottage-like feel and the reasonable price. 

If you’re seeking a little extra pampering, the Battery Wharf Hotel has plush accommodations and an award-winning spa. Wellness treatments such as Swedish massages, acupuncture, cupping, and reiki are offered in addition to a salon, yoga and fitness training classes. The 150 spacious guestrooms have a minimum of 380 square feet of space with city or water views, upholstered bed headboards and spa-style baths. Relax and watch the boats pass on the outdoor patio with a cozy fire pit for s'mores. An in-house restaurant serves up a menu of New-England classics with a Mediterranean twist. The hotel is located near the North End and is within walking distance to Faneuil Hall.