Hidden amongst the charming townhomes of one of Boston’s most historic neighborhoods, and only a five-minute walk from the Charles River, find the Whitney Hotel. Named after Henry Melville Whitney — a prominent Boston industrialist who once owned the site — the boutique hotel has only been open since the summer of 2019, but its host building holds decades of history.
Built back in 1909, the building was originally part of Massachusetts Eye and Ear, before eventually becoming a bed and breakfast. Its large-scale renovation in 2017 included a 12,000-square-foot expansion, attached by way of a glass connector, which brought the room capacity from 46 to 65 rooms.
An unassuming front on the corner of TK and TK opens up to a chic space that nods to Boston’s vast history while still remaining thoroughly modern in design. Behind engineered-marble check-in desks, floor-to-ceiling glass cabinets contain books by prominent local authors and other eye-catching objects. A comfortable seating area uses vintage-inspired trunks as end tables, next to a crackling fireplace beneath a rugged wooden mantle.
Take a brass elevator up to your room, which might have views of the surrounding neighborhood or of the Charles River. Rooms are decorated in muted tones of grey, sapphire, and white, with spacious bathrooms containing Grown Alchemist toiletries. Make coffee in the morning with your in-room Nespresso maker, or head downstairs for breakfast at Peregrine—the Whitney’s onsite restaurant.
Inspired by coastal Mediterranean fare, the restaurant serves all three meals in a modern, open space that adjoins the lobby, or you can order room service. Breakfast, which is not included, offers baked goods, a variety of sweet and savory toasts, and more. Lunch and dinner at Peregrine are all about their tasty small plates, like Garlic Shrimp and Catalan Tomato Bread, as well as pasta dishes.
In the on-site gym, find rowing machines from Hydrow, or get active on the water by renting a sailboat or even a yacht. Bikes are free to borrow from the hotel if you feel like rolling around town, and those traveling with pets can request anything from treats to dog beds and even monogrammed jackets for their furry best friend.
Top Takeaways
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Rating: Four-Star
The vibe: A bright, modern hideaway, disguised amongst the charming townhouses of Boston’s most charming neighborhood.
Food + Drink: Peregrine, the Whitney’s on-site restaurant, is located in a space adjoining the main lobby. There, find tasty, Mediterranean-inspired options for all three meals of the day, as well as craft cocktails, beer, and wine.
Amenities: In-room dining, valet parking, fitness studio, complimentary bicycles, complimentary shoeshine and newspaper service.
Any personal neighborhood recs? One of the country’s most photographed streets each year, Acorn Street, is just a short walk away. Established two centuries ago, the short but stunning street is cobblestoned and flanked by brick row houses with softly glowing gas-lit lanterns.
Our favorite thing about the hotel: Besides its stellar location, we love the hotel’s small hidden back garden—the perfect space for enjoying a coffee and a book in the sun when you need a break from exploring the city.
What’s nearby? The Whitney is located at the top of historic Charles Street, replete with chic boutiques and local restaurants. It’s also a short walk to both the Charles River Esplanade and the Boston Common.
Rooms: 65 rooms and suites
Pricing: Rates start at 339 dollars/night
Closest Airport: Boston Logan Airport (BOS)
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