The heart and soul of the city’s cultural and entertainment scenes, downtown Boston is full to the rafters with places to stay, from ultra-luxurious to ultra-affordable.
City Hall, the historic Freedom Trail, and the theatre a district are just some of the highlights awaiting visitors to Boston’s buzzing downtown district. And for those who want all of this – and more – on their doorstep, there are a wide choice of accommodation options to be found here. We’ve picked out two offering great value below, both in close proximity to each other but one delivering a more traditional hotel experience and the other a no-frills hostel.
Found Hotel
(Photo: Found Hotel / Courtesy Booking.com)
A boutique hotel housed in a building dating back to the late 19th century, Found Hotel combines character and charm with a dash of contemporary flair. The former is most evident in the classically decorate guest rooms, while the latter can be seen in the modern communal areas. On-site amenities include a 24-hour reception and laundry facilities while guests arriving in their own car can make use of private parking for an additional charge.
As for location, the hotel is set in downtown’s theatre district, with the closest showhouse – Cutler Majestic Theatre – just a few minutes away on foot and a huge choice of bars and restaurants also close by. For respite from the hustle and bustle, the Public Garden and Boston Common are a 10-minute walk away, and for those keen to venture beyond downtown, you’re just half a mile from 3 T-stops on the Green Line, Boston’s light rail line.
Reviews: Found Hotel, Boston
Guest feedback rates Found Hotel at an overall 7.9, placing it in the good category. Location is a clear strength with a 9.3 score, while staff also receive strong praise at 9.1. Cleanliness (8.3) and comfort (8.1) earn high marks, and free Wi-Fi, rated 8.2, is seen as generally reliable. Facilities come in at 7.8, with value for money scoring 7.7. From $81 per night.
HI Boston Hostel
(Photo: HI Boston / Courtesy Booking.com)
For those keen to meet fellow travellers, a hostel is a great idea and in HI Boston you’ll find one of the best the city has to offer. Simple but modern, the hostel features a choice of women’s, men’s, or all-gender dormitories, as well as private rooms with ensuite bathrooms for those who’d prefer their own space. Elsewhere, there’s a communal kitchen, a games room with a billiards table, and a TV room. Bike storage is also available and you can buy drinks and snacks on-site too. A regular programme of events include walking tours and yoga sessions.
Like our first recommendation, HI Boston can be found in the theatre district, on Stuart Street, a few minutes’ walk from historic Boston Common and a little further on to the shops and bustling promenade at Faneuil Hall. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes within easy reach, while nearby transport hubs provide easy access to the rest of the city and beyond.
Reviews: Hi Hostel, Boston
Guest reviews place HI Boston Hostel at an overall 8.5, earning it a spot in the very good category. Location stands out with an impressive 9.4, while staff and free Wi-Fi both score 9.0, indicating friendly service and reliable connectivity. Facilities (8.7), along with cleanliness and comfort (both 8.6), receive consistently positive feedback, while value for money, rated 8.4, reinforces the hostel’s appeal. From $93 per night.
By Paul Joseph