The Charles Hotel

Just a block from Harvard Square, the Charles has been the place for business and leisure travelers to Cambridge since it opened in 1985. Vacationing families and visiting parents enjoy the same high level of service as Harvard affiliates, business tycoons, and the odd celebrity. The style in the nine-story brick hotel is luxe contemporary country, with custom adaptations of early American Shaker furniture. The austere design contrasts with the swanky amenities in the good-size guest rooms, which have floor-to-ceiling windows, down quilts, and Bose Wave radios; bathrooms contain telephones and TVs (in the mirrors -- cool!). The eco-aware Charles rivals the Four Seasons and Boston Harbor Hotel for cachet and amenities; the only other Cambridge hotel with comparable features and service is the Royal Sonesta, which is less convenient and generally less expensive.

Facilities:
2 restaurants (including Henrietta's Table); 2 bars; Regattabar jazz club; concierge; free access to adjacent health club w/pool, Jacuzzi, and sauna; room service; adjacent spa

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.