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Photography provided by Boston Harbor Hotel
There’s only one time I find joy in setting alarms and that’s when I’m on vacation. In this particular instance, I found myself obsessively scheduling a reminder to ensure I’d be able to catch the next day’s sunrise from the comfort of my elegant room at Boston Harbor Hotel. Now, this wasn’t for any sunrise — I specifically wanted to catch a New England golden morning. It’s one of the only coastal regions where the sun peeks its head over ocean waters. When you have a room that boasts a striking harborside view with room service just a tablet-swipe away, rising with the sun is a must. And I didn’t regret my decision the following morning when I pulled back the curtain and watched orange rays slowly paint my room in a warm glow. It was 7:05 a.m. on a Monday, and I felt like I already had conquered the day, while hours of anticipated city-wandering stretched ahead of me. The cherry on top? I was just steps from Boston’s most iconic neighborhoods.
Setting
Nestled in the historic Rowes Wharf neighborhood, Boston Harbor is the city’s only Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond waterfront hotel. Recognized as one of North America’s most luxurious accommodations, it’s no surprise that guests choose to stay here for the unbeatable harbor vistas and convenient access to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. While Boston draws in visitors year-round, I’d argue that fall is the best time to visit. Autumn foliage is at its peak and the mild weather makes exploring one of the nation’s most walkable cities on foot sublime. A seasonal highlight is The Head of the Charles Regatta, the world’s largest three-day rowing competition on the Charles River. A favorite tradition for sporting enthusiasts, it’s a quintessential Boston festivity to add to your list.
Vibe
Before your luggage is whisked away by the affable doorman, take a few moments to appreciate the architecture of the hotel. Known for its soaring multi-story archway, the property oozes grandeur from its historic pavilion to the American flag that nearly spans the length of the building as it greets guests bustling along Atlantic Avenue with a regal wave. Inside the welcoming front entrance, coastal charm awaits with sea-tone blues and nautical art decorating the interior. It’s easy to forget you’re in the heart of downtown with sweeping harbor views of megayachts gently bobbing in the marina on full display across the lobby. Two words come to mind: waterfront sanctuary.
Amenities
Each room is designed for convenience, complete with in-room tablets suited for leisurely scrolling and ordering in-room dining. Indulgence is the name of the game with signature Diptyque bath products and nightly turndown service. In need of dry cleaning services? The hotel’s team can take care of that for you. Looking for the optimal itinerary to max out your time in Boston? The on-site concierge specializes in tailored recommendations and exclusive access to can’t-miss attractions.
The Rooms
Designed by Wimberly Interiors, the 230 timelessly chic guest rooms and suites make it hard to leave with picture windows overlooking the city’s dazzling skyline or the beautiful Boston Harbor. Each spacious room is outfitted in soothing blues and neutral tone accents that channel the waterfront theme. Other highlights include luxurious Frette linens and soothing rainfall showers for optimal relaxation. The iconic John Adams Presidential Suite exemplifies why this hotel is known for luxury. Including a 1,000-square-foot open-air terrace, private theater room, dining room and modern kitchen, the 4,800-square-foot paradise is the most exclusive penthouse experience in downtown.
The Spa + Athletic Club
The onsite Rowes Wharf Health Club recently underwent an $8 million renovation. Open around the clock, the sleek space instantly makes you feel at home with ambient lighting and luxe oak paneling. Hotel guests can enjoy a fully equipped gym, state-of-the-art group fitness studio, private golf simulator and upgraded locker rooms. Exclusive wellness pods are also available including a Hyperice Recovery pod with compression boots and an Echelon Mirror Pod for limitless on-demand workouts. Take your sauna session to the next level with enhanced steam rooms offering Halotherapy Salt and infrared light therapy. Stay a little longer and partake in a 60- or 90-minute massage. The newly renovated pool and hot tub is set to open in April 2025.
Dining
Born and raised in Boston by a large Italian family, Executive Chef David Daniels’ appreciation for his roots and seafood shines in the Boston Harbor Hotel’s signature restaurants. The freshest seafood around can be found at Rowes Wharf Sea Grille. Menu highlights include a twist on the classics such as torched spicy crab hand rolls, caviar nestled on top of scallion-buttermilk waffles and housemade sweet potato ice cream (a must!).
Before dinner, after dessert or just because, The Dark Bar is the place to be. With the dim lighting and luxe leather seating, it’s unsurprising that Food & Wine recognizes the cozy lounge as one of the top 15 hotel bars in the United States. I witnessed my seatmate at the bar audibly gasp as housemade almonds, chips and olives were placed in front of him. Guests are in for a treat if Mary Ellen is working. A Forbes Travel Guide associate of the year, her knowledge of the history behind cocktails and the city itself makes for a one-of-a-kind dining experience. True hospitality never goes out of style.
