Hotel Reviews

You Won’t Believe The History Behind This Hotel in Boston’s Beacon Hill

Nestled in the heart of Boston’s historic Beacon Hill, The Liberty Hotel offers guests a unique blend of rich history and vibrant modernity, making it a standout destination in the city’s hospitality scene.

Once the notorious Charles Street Jail, this landmark property has been meticulously transformed into a luxurious hotel that seamlessly integrates its storied past with contemporary flair.

The hotel’s centerpiece is its awe-inspiring 90-foot lobby rotunda, a testament to its former life as a jail, where guests can soak in the atmosphere that once housed Boston’s most infamous characters.

Original architectural elements are prevalent throughout the property, from the preserved jail cells within CLINK––the property’s all-day eatery––to the wrought-iron details adorning the windows. The former “drunk tank” now serves as Alibi, a stylish cocktail lounge that playfully pays homage to its origins by hanging celebrity mug shots along its walls.

Scampo, translating to “escape” in Italian, is an elevated and daring Italian restaurant drawing flavor inspiration from the Mediterranean and Middle East. Graphic artworks inspired by Boston’s mob-related crime history line the walls and the intricately tiled wood-fired oven warms the space. Be sure to start with Patrick’s naan with prosciuttotto or Bufala di mozzarella with beef carpaccio, drops of gorgonzola dolce, and tiny candied beet crisps. The pasta draws crowds for its versatile appetizer and entree size offerings; the Candele with yellow tomato vodka sauce, stracciatella, and white meatballs with fennel pollen is unique and very delicious. 

Beyond its historical significance, The Liberty Hotel is renowned for its lively social scene and top-notch amenities. Hosting some of Boston’s most anticipated events like New Year’s Eve and Halloween parties, the hotel has earned its reputation as the city’s premier hotspot for nightlife. 

Designed to honor its structural heritage while embracing modern comforts, The Liberty Hotel is a captivating example of adaptive reuse. The hotel’s stylish reception desk is crafted with stenciled patterns reminiscent of 1850s embroidery work. Carpets recall the old-fashioned crewel work of New England, while exposed brick walls and a striking wrought iron chandelier continuously draw guests’ gazes upwards.

Whether exploring the neighborhood’s hidden gardens or reveling in the dashing social scene, guests at The Liberty Hotel are treated to an unforgettable Boston experience that seamlessly merges past and present.

Top Takeaways

Location: Beacon Hill, Boston

Address: 215 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114

Rating: Four-Star

The vibe: With a storied history as a former jail, The Liberty Hotel now stands as a spirited social hub for travelers and locals.

Food + Drink: Each concept relates to The Liberty’s storied history as a former jail. CLINK is the property’s all-day eatery serving fresh North Atlantic seafood, New England dishes, and heritage meats. Scampo (“escape,” in Italian) is an elevated and daring Italian restaurant drawing flavor inspiration from the Mediterranean and Middle East. Set in the 90-foot rotunda lobby, The Liberty Bar draws a regular crowd for its cocktail list featuring house-infused liquors, bespoke bitters, and muddled fruits. Celebrity mug shots hang along the walls of Alibi, a chic bar with sophisticated drinks and a coveted outdoor terrace.

Our Favorite Part of the Hotel: As Boston’s premier dog-friendly destination, The Liberty hosts Yappier Hour every Wednesday at 5:30 PM from spring through fall. Hotel guests and local dog owners gather in The Yard to enjoy this happy hour filled with furry friends, cocktails, and live music.

Amenities: Terrace; Fitness center; Pet-friendly; 3 restaurants; Bar; Private parking

What’s nearby? Hatch Shell; Charles River Esplanade; Front Park; Boston Common; Boston Public Garden; Old State House

Any personal neighborhood recs? In the morning, grab a coffee and a light bite at Tatte. Spend afternoons strolling along the Charles River Esplanade or exploring the quaint boutiques of Beacon Hill. Those searching for a dinner reservation should book a table at 1928 Beacon Hill

Rooms: There are 298 rooms and suites


Pricing: Nightly rates begin at $711.

Closest Airport: Boston Logan Airport

Other Articles You May Like:

Privacy Policy