Life on the Water

Historic Rowes Wharf

If you were to capture Boston a in a picture, you'd likely include the Boston Harbor Hotel's landmark 80-foot arch and golden-domed pavilion. What a grand gateway to a stupendous hotel! Boston's historic waterfront, Rowes Wharf, sets the stage with its super yachts and storied background dating to the 17th century. Once inside, guests marvel at the elegant boutiquey interior.

The member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts Worldwide offers 230 rooms and suites equipped with work desks, high-speed Internet access, marble bathrooms, Molton Brown bath products, 300-thread count linen and down comforters. Sweet dreams are further induced by soothing music and nightly turn down service as well as twice-daily maid service to keep things spotless. We recommend you get a room with harbor view and if the weather's fair dine al-fresco enjoying the sultry sunsets and ocean breeze. But of course, it's Boston, and the weather may just call for that umbrella, which is handily stationed in your room. Or perhaps, you may be too busy doing business at the nearby Financial District. Bonus: you can walk to work.

230 rooms & suites

The Boston Harbor is proud of its 66-ft indoor lap pool, oversize Jacuzzi and state-of-the-art health club and spa, offering the usual facials, manicures, pedicures as well as eight types of massage (shiatsu, Swedish etc). Then there's aqua aerobics, yoga and, this we love, you only have to bring your sneakers to work out. The staff will provide all fresh, clean, comfortable garments to work up a sweat.

Top service is a given throughout and extends to the hotel's three dining spaces, Intrigue Café, Intrigue Terrace and Meritage. The latter is a market-driven foodie destination under the helm of chef Daniel Bruce who does a fine steamed Maine lobster. Numerous other options are within walking distance.

See also Guide to Massachusetts

Night view with famed arch

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(Updated: 06/24/08 HC)