Hotel Advice - First Visit to Boston

Question

We are visiting Boston for the first time, arriving on Thursday 4th September and leaving for New York on Monday 8th September. We have the Dagny booked, purely on the fantastic Tripadvisor reviews and it looks a nice hotel. We like to have a hotel with plenty bars and restaurants close by, reading some of the forum posts on here suggest that the area around the Dagny is not very lively or busy at nights.

Any suggestions on hotels that are ‘in about it all’ would be greatly appreciated, I’ve recently been looking at The Godfrey Hotel and The Eliot.

Answer

Boston is a vibrant city with a lot to offer, and if you're looking for a hotel that's in the heart of the action, you have a few great options beyond the Dagny. The area around the Dagny is more on the quieter side, which might be perfect for some, but if you're seeking lively bars, restaurants, and a more energetic atmosphere, here are a few suggestions:

The Godfrey Hotel – Located in the Downtown Crossing area, The Godfrey is a fantastic option for those who want to be in the thick of things. The hotel is surrounded by a ton of bars, restaurants, and shops, and it's a short walk to popular attractions like the Boston Common and Chinatown. The hotel itself has a modern feel, with a chic bar and stylish design. It's also very well-connected to public transport, making it easy to explore more of the city.
The Eliot Hotel – Situated in the Back Bay area, The Eliot is a great choice for those seeking a more upscale, classic Boston experience. It's located near plenty of restaurants and shopping along Newbury Street and Boylston Street, and the area has a lively but not overwhelming vibe. The Eliot itself is a beautiful, historic hotel with excellent service and a strong reputation. It’s also close to the Boston Public Library and Boston Common, making it easy to explore the city on foot.
The Liberty Hotel – For a truly unique stay, The Liberty Hotel in Beacon Hill is one of Boston’s most famous hotels. Housed in a former jailhouse, it boasts a luxurious and trendy atmosphere. The area around the hotel is lively, with bars and restaurants within walking distance, and it’s just a short distance from the North End (Boston's famous Italian district). The Liberty is a great option if you want a central location with a lively nightlife scene.
Kimpton Nine Zero Hotel – This boutique hotel in Downtown Boston is known for its modern, stylish design and its proximity to both historic and trendy areas of the city. It's within walking distance of the Boston Common, Theatre District, and several great restaurants. The Kimpton group is also known for its pet-friendly policies and great customer service, so it's a good choice for anyone looking for a personalized experience with easy access to nightlife.
The Bostonian Boston – Located in the Financial District, The Bostonian is close to some of the best bars and restaurants in Boston, including the historic North End and Faneuil Hall Marketplace. It's a lively area, especially at night, with plenty of options for dinner, drinks, and entertainment. The Bostonian itself is a comfortable and well-appointed hotel, perfect for those looking to enjoy the city without being too far from the action.

All of these options will place you in close proximity to great dining and nightlife, and they're all well-connected to public transportation for easy access to the rest of the city. If you're looking for a bustling atmosphere with plenty of bars and restaurants to explore, I would recommend either The Godfrey Hotel or The Liberty Hotel, as they are right in the heart of some of Boston’s most lively neighborhoods.

Enjoy your trip to Boston – it’s a beautiful city with so much to see and do!