Best Boutique Hotels in Downtown and Waterfront, Boston

This 25-year-old, 201-room hotel, with its recessed driveway, security-focused doormen, and loungy living-room-like lobby, is a relative oasis across from the tourist-filled Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Large, stylish rooms and a great location for sightseeing make up for underwhelming features.

The upscale Nine Zero Hotel is a stylish member of the trendy Kimpton chain. It has a convenient location on the Freedom Trail and across the street from Boston Common. Characteristic Kimpton warmth and trendiness is evident in the free evening wine hours, free loaner bikes, and dedicated pet concierge. The 190 guest rooms are clean and fun, but compact, with an Art Deco meets Industrial vibe. Expect to pay extra for parking; Wi-Fi is free for Kimpton loyalty program members (it's free to join). Visitors who need more space (and a pool) may prefer the nearby Revere Hotel Boston Commons.

This high-design property exudes sophistication. Period details -- the building, Boston's first skyscraper, dates back to 1889 -- are juxtaposed against sleek David Rockwell design. Rooms are gorgeous, with a black and white motif, comfortable beds, and modern technology. Bathrooms are similarly stylish, with Malin + Goetz toiletries and rain showerheads. The fitness center is small, but well-equipped, a continental breakfast is served daily, and meeting spaces are pleasant. There aren't many features besides the restaurant, but the service is solid and the location near Faneuil Hall and Beacon Hill is great. It's a first-rate choice for business travelers, trendy singles, and couples. 

The 64-room, two-pearl Found Hotel Boston Common has two strong points -- price and location. Surrounded by the Theater District’s nightlife, dining, and shopping, the hotel is a brief walk to Boston Common and subway stations. For guests seeking a clean place to sleep and little more, it’s a reasonable choice at an unbeatable price. But rooms are dated and cramped, especially for couples or families. If the location is desirable but better overall accommodations are necessary, consider the nearby DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Downtown. For a quaint bed-and-breakfast experience nearby, consider the Gryphon. However, expect to pay considerably higher rates for these more upscale alternatives.