Hotel Check: Cambria Hotel Boston Downtown – South Boston
WHERE IS IT? In the fast-developing Seaport District, the hotel is convenient to great dining and the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. In nice weather, a brisk walk to Boston Commons is an easy way to experience the neighborhood. The drive to Logan International Airport takes between 10-15 minutes tops. The hotel is located across the street from the T station, which gives access to the city’s well-known public transportation system.
WHAT’S IT LIKE? As part of the Cambria brand’s upscale design portfolio, this hotel pays homage to Boston’s rich literary history through its thoughtful design elements. Subtle hints like library storage shelves and brass lamps as well as quotes on the walls feed into this clever perspective. The lobby features oak wood floors, enormous floor-to-ceiling windows, and a beautiful gold leaf sculpture suspended from the ceiling. Bright green and rich oak tones evoke scenery from the park across the street, and the intricate decoupage covering some of the architectural columns in the lobby and restaurant is definitely a conversation point. COVID-19 safety protocols were in full force during my stay as part of Choice Hotels’ Commitment to Clean program including Plexiglas barriers at reception, an indoor mask requirement and hand sanitizing stations everywhere. The hotel was doing a great job of making guests feel safe during their stay; I really liked the small hand sanitizer bottles stocked in each guest room to take with you and use around town.
ROOM FACILITIES In the guestrooms, the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Boston skyline and surrounding neighborhood have decorative curtains and blackout shades. Literary quotes from New England authors line the walls, as well. Comfortable platform beds with soft duvets, high-quality linens and bedside power outlets are the center of the room with work stations beneath the flat-screen TV for those wanting to be productive. Power outlets are thoughtfully placed everywhere. I appreciated the Keurig coffeemaker and refrigerator tucked into the cupboard and the sliding full-length mirror on the closet. Barn-door style doors to the bathroom give more space inside, and the glass shower stalls have sliding glass doors that allow you to switch on the shower without getting scalded or drenched in the process. Bluetooth-enabled mirrors are a brand standard to help guests customize their morning routine.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS Six West is on the lobby level and serves an impressive menu of three meals a day (during normal times) including a to-go breakfast menu and the option for seasonal terrace dining. Craft cocktails, local beers on tap and a long list of wine and tapas-style fare draw a crowd of locals and guests. On the rooftop, dramatic views highlight this popular spot for weekend brunch or after-work tipples. Like most Cambria properties, this hotel works with local breweries to offer at least five craft beers on tap.
LEISURE FACILITIES A full-service, 2,400 square foot fitness center gives guests access to modern equipment, especially important when a jog through the park is not feasible due to jet lag or weather.
BUSINESS AND MEETING FACILITIES Free wireless Internet and a business center with free printing are the norm for everyone. Meeting space to host as many as 130 is available for small group events, and the rooftop terrace is a great gathering place with fresh air and memorable views.
VERDICT Cambria is one of Choice Hotels’ (and the Choice Privileges program’s) top offerings, delivering modern amenities with sophisticated style and upscale service in dozens of domestic markets across the country. The Boston hotel offers clever design and notable amenities to appeal to both business and leisure travelers.
HOW MANY ROOMS? 159 rooms and suites
PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS Fashionable hotel with purpose-driven design in guestrooms and a great rooftop bar
PRICE Internet rates for a traditional room start at $84
CONTACT 6 West Broadway, Boston, MA, 02127, Tel 617-752-6681. cambriaboston.com
