Marriott Long Wharf or Renaissance Seaport

Question

My family (2 adults/2 kids; 9&13) will spend 3 nights in Boston 7/5-7/7. I have free nights through Marriott and narrowed it down to these two hotels, the reason being are both close to the water and have pools. Is one of them better than the other for location, accommodation, style? We’ve been to Boston 3 years ago and if I recall correctly they are both in decent areas.

Thank you.

Answer

Both the Marriott Long Wharf and the Renaissance Seaport are excellent options for your stay in Boston, with each offering its own unique advantages. Since you’re traveling with kids and prefer a location near the water with a pool, here’s a comparison of both hotels to help you decide:

Marriott Long Wharf:
- Location: The Marriott Long Wharf is right on the water, offering beautiful views of Boston Harbor. It’s a prime location for families, as it's within walking distance of key attractions like the New England Aquarium, the Boston Harbor Cruises, and the Rose Kennedy Greenway. You’ll also be close to Faneuil Hall, the North End (which is great for Italian food), and the financial district.
- Pool: The Marriott Long Wharf offers an indoor pool, which is a great option for families, especially if the weather isn’t ideal. The pool is quite large and often less crowded than smaller hotel pools, so your kids may enjoy that aspect.
- Accommodation/Style: The Marriott is a larger, more traditional hotel with a contemporary feel. It’s known for its spacious rooms, making it a solid choice for families. The hotel’s layout is a bit more classic and less boutique, but it offers excellent service and amenities for families.
- Nearby Amenities: The area surrounding the hotel is bustling with shops, restaurants, and attractions. This location provides a vibrant, walkable area for families to explore Boston’s waterfront.
Renaissance Seaport:
- Location: The Renaissance Seaport is located in the Seaport District, which has undergone a lot of development in recent years. While it's slightly further from the heart of the historic downtown area (like Faneuil Hall and the North End), the Seaport offers a more modern vibe with excellent restaurants, bars, and shops. It's also close to the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), and you can easily walk or take public transportation to downtown attractions.
- Pool: The Renaissance Seaport also features an outdoor pool, which could be a nice bonus if you're visiting during warmer months. It’s a great spot to relax after a day of sightseeing.
- Accommodation/Style: The Renaissance is a more boutique-style hotel with a contemporary and stylish design. It offers a unique and trendy feel, with sleek, modern rooms and a more sophisticated atmosphere compared to the Marriott.
- Nearby Amenities: The Seaport District is known for its waterfront dining options and modern atmosphere. If your family enjoys exploring newer developments with hip shops and restaurants, the Renaissance is a great choice. However, it’s a bit more removed from some of the city’s historic attractions compared to the Marriott Long Wharf.

In summary:

If you prefer a more central location near major tourist attractions, the Marriott Long Wharf is probably your best option. It offers easy access to the aquarium, Harborwalk, and other popular spots, and the indoor pool is a good family-friendly amenity.
If you prefer a more modern, boutique hotel with a stylish, up-and-coming neighborhood vibe, the Renaissance Seaport could be a great fit. It’s slightly further from downtown but offers a unique, modern experience with plenty of trendy spots to explore.

Both hotels are great, but your choice ultimately depends on your family’s preferences for location and style. Both will give you access to the water and have pools, making them solid choices for a fun and relaxing family vacation in Boston.