When it comes to Boston's thriving boutique hotel industry, it's all about location. And there's one hidden gem that's in the center of the action. Hotel 140, officially opening its doors in June 2005 and boasting 54 contemporary rooms, is an affordable alternative to the pricey Back Bay hotels popping up in the Copley Square area. Named for its desirable Clarendon Street locale, Hotel 140 is a smart solution for travelers on a budget ranging from the collegiate crowd to tourists in the know to the savvy business traveler. Located in the nation's first headquarters of the YWCA and a Boston landmark since it was built in 1929, the completely renovated digs at 140 Clarendon Street is within walking distance of the upscale retail district on Newbury Street, the shops at the Prudential Center, the expanding arts and cultural offerings of the Theatre District as well as access to the South End's hipster dining and nightlife scene. Also, Hotel 140 is next to the John Hancock Tower and Conference Center, the historical Trinity Church and literally next door to the Back Bay Station, a major hub for the MBTA's commuter rail system and Amtrak as well as an Orange Line T stop. Whether you're looking for an extended stay or overnight lodging, enjoy stunning downtown views and access to high-tech amenities, a top-notch fitness center and access to the upgraded Stuart Street Grill which serves up complimentary continental breakfast to hotel guests. Hotel 140 boasts several cost-efficient deals including its Theatre Extravaganza Package ($169) which includes two tickets to the current Lyric Stage Production, located on the mezzanine level of the hotel, and one night stay in their Wellesley Superior Suite. Looking to impress your partner? They have a special Romance Package ($299) including overnight accommodations in a Copley or Wellesley Supreme guest room, next day 1 p.m. check-out, fresh flowers upon arrival, a box of chocolates by "All things Chocolate" and continental breakfast for two in the Stuart Street Grill. Hotel 140 also offers special corporate ratesfor the business traveler and long-term accommodations ranging from one to four weeks. Overnight covered parking is available with a hotel validation for a nominal fee.

The palatial Copley Plaza Hotel has been one of Boston's most prestigious landmarks since 1912. It offers the usual luxuries—a gym, bars, and restaurants and the notable Oak Room restaurant has won awards for the “Best Steaks in Boston.” Each room is furnished with “period antique reproductions,” private bars, and modern communications services. Rooms start at $300, but quickly rise to well over $450 for a double or a suite. Overnight parking $36. Make Commencement reservations at least 8 months in advance, although they will take reservations up to 2 years ahead. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard. This is the location of the Press/Media area for the Boston Marathon. The media areas include the Oval Room, Venetian Room and Grand Ballroom in the Fairmont Copley Plaza. No blue jeans or sneakers allowed. The Marathon Awards Ceremony is from 5 - 6 pm in the Grand Ballroom. Special room rates for the Boston Marathon® available through Marathon Tours and Travel. Public restroom: down the stairs before the front desk and near the hair salon.

The Copley Square Hotel plans to unveil its new urban-chic look on Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2008 after a $17 million facelift. The historic hotel's initial re-launch date was postponed from Nov. 11 to New Year's Eve after mandatory city inspections held up the renovations kicking off more than one year ago on January 24, 2008. At this contemporary boutique hotel, guests will enjoy top-tier accommodations at a lower rate within walking distance of many of the city's most popular restaurants, nightspots, shopping and attractions, The Copley Square Hotel showcases the best of Boston at highly competitive hotel rates. Also, the revamped hotel boasts a new martini bar, formerly Domani Bar & Trattoria, called Minibar. Inspired by lounges at the W Hotels and Miami's Delano, designer/architect Stephen Sousa's Minibar boasts modern design elements including a black-and-metallic color motif and gray-leather seating surrounding a minimalist U-shaped bar area.

The Jury's Hotel in the Back Bay is part of the Jury's family that is based in Dublin and quite popular throughout Ireland and the UK. This location offers a swanky hotel as well as two restaurants: Stanhope Grill and the bar Cuffs at the Jury's Hotel. Special room rates for the Boston Marathon® available through Marathon Tours and Travel. This is a comfortable business oriented hotel based in a former police station with very busy bar on the lower ground floor.

The former Ritz-Carlton was sold to Taj in 2006; in 2005, this hotel's 1927 glamour was updated with modern technology. The elegant European decor still recreates a historic, genteel Boston, and the wide array of guest services will have you feeling like a proper Brahmin. In addition to conventional modern amenities, 24hr room service includes a technology butler (in case your laptop fails you at midnight) as well as a fireplace butler. There's no pool, but your bath butler will see to all your water-related desires. The Taj also boasts a new fitness center, limousine service, and three dining and drinking establishments innovatively named The Cafe, The Lounge and The Bar. Deluxe singles and doubles generally $375-595, suites range from $475 to $3000. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard. Formerly The Ritz-Carlton, Boston, the hotel is located on the corner of Arlington and the always fashionable Newbury Street and offers visitors easy access to many of Boston's most popular sites. The Public Garden, Swan Boats, Boston Common, Hatch Shell, and many more are all within a short walk. Special room rates for the Boston Marathon available through Marathon Tours and Travel. Afternoon tea: served on Wednesday to Sunday at 2 pm and 4 pm sittings, and it's wise to make a booking. It is served on the first floor, so enter through the front door and take the grand spiral staircase up to the high-ceilinged lounge adorned with traditional artwork and bedecked with antique furniture. A harpist plays and the window seats look out over Newbury St below and the Gardens across Arlington St.

Connected to the upscale Copley mall via skybridge, The Westin puts you at the center of historic Boston's Back Bay and trendy Newbury Street; It boasts the largest guest rooms in Boston and spectacular views of Back Bay and Cambridge (especially from the rooms facing west). It is advisable to reserve rooms in advances (up to 1 months; 1 year for Commencement). Rooms are $249-499, depending on size and view. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard. Special room rates for the Boston Marathon® available through Marathon Tours and Travel. Public restroom: Go up the escalator, bear right at the Rolex display, take first left past the shoeshine guy.

Small (33 rooms) and fashionable hotel in near Copley Square, Charlesmark is a great tourist location on off the beaten path when it comes to the corporate hotelling industry. The lounge, a modern bar serving up martinis and specialty drinks, is a hot-spot for Bostonians and hotel guest alike.

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