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Review
Sometimes you just need to stay at a hotel that tells a really good story, and that’s exactly what you get at the Revolution Hotel. It’s not an ultra-luxe, 5-star luxury property, but there’s a sense of pride and storytelling that celebrates the home of the American Revolution. The nods toward Boston’s history began the moment I walked through the lobby—a colorful mural painted with patriotic figures and posters that highlight Massachusetts-made icons, from Dr. Seuss to marshmallow fluff. Who knew, right?
From cozy rooms and large suites to elevated lofts, there’s a variety of accommodation types to choose from. But, it’s really about choosing your own style. Regular rooms have a “bath down the hall” or “bath in room” option, which feels more like something you’d see in Europe. It’s definitely out of the norm for a hotel in Boston, but makes the stay exciting and communal.
If you want more space, it’s worth it to book a suite—I stayed in one solo, and it felt like I had my own apartment in the city with mini kitchen and living room areas. All rooms have an industrial yet sleek feel, with minimalistic designs and an accent wall with a historical mural or design. In-room amenities include slippers, soft robes, large tvs, and complimentary toiletries. The views of the city are a huge draw, but it’s nice to have blackout shades for a good night’s rest.
Next door, Cósmica brings good vibes and even better margaritas, with a buzzing outdoor patio in the warmer months. The Mexican-inspired dishes are full of flavor and perfect for sharing, so we got a few to try. As someone who loves a sauce, my favorites were the esquites (corn, chipotle aioli, queso fresco, lime, cilantro) and mole amarillo with grilled shrimp (seasonal veggies, pepita crunch, jasmine rice).
On the lower level of the hotel, Spy Bar listening lounge offers a speakeasy kind of setting with genuinely good music. A dark, intimate space with disco lights bouncing around the walls, it really feels like you’ve been transported back to the 70’s.
You won’t find a decadent spa or rooftop pool here, but that’s not very on-brand for the Revolution anyway. There is a small fitness center with peloton bikes, a Boston Marathon mural, and yellow sneakers hanging from the ceiling—which feels more on par with the quirky designs throughout the hotel. With a prime spot in the city’s South End neighborhood and everything nearby, public bikes are available to rent, and there’s also a Kohi coffee window in the lobby for grab & go goodies before exploring.
When most people think of Boston they go to cobblestone streets and brownstones—and that’s precisely what you’ll find in the South End. Just steps from the hotel, there’s charming streets lined with restaurants, corner coffee shops, and blossom trees in the spring—it’s where lots of visitors come in the fall to see the elaborately decorated townhouses and pumpkin stoops.
Just around the corner, Tremont Street has some favorites: The Beehive for live jazz, and Frenchie Wine Bistro. It’s an ideal neighborhood if you want a quieter vibe that is still close to all the must-sees—Boston Common, Back Bay, and Newbury Street are all within a 15-25 minute walking distance.
DETAILS
Address: 40 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02116
Price per night: Prices start at $149 per night
Closest transport link: Both Back Bay and Arlington stations are a 10 minute walk
Book now: via Booking.com
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