Find a Hotel in Downtown Boston

Imagine your perfect day. Are you settling in to a plush armchair, cracking open a faded cover to pursue new enlightenment in ancient tomes? Invigorated, you next discover a different sort of enlightenment in the restaurants of a city that is both brand-new and flush with history. Slurp down the freshest oysters you have ever had, followed by a perfectly paired Chablis. Refreshed, you follow the trail of spirits long gone but always remembered. You can do all of this and more from hotels near downtown Boston, Massachusetts, where famous landmarks are framed by soaring modern skyscrapers, and old town charm and modern conveniences live hand in hand.

What sites are along the Freedom Trail?

Those who long for the days of yore will rejoice at the chance to see many of the most important historic sites in the city. The day’s adventures begin at Boston Common, America’s oldest public park. Just north, the soaring steeple of Park Street Church bestows upon you an incredible photo backdrop. At Granary Burying Ground, listen for the voices of Samuel Adams and Paul Revere, perhaps shouting “The British are coming!” Then visit the places where it all started: The Old South Meeting House and Old State House, where revolution began brewing in the 1760s.

Among unofficial sites on the trail, the Boston Omni Parker House Hotel is one of America’s oldest continuously operated hotels, having played host to every American president since Ulysses S. Grant. The nearby Union Oyster House is the oldest restaurant in America—although its catch is the freshest around.

Several sites are in the North End, one of Boston’s oldest neighborhoods. Aside from hundreds of years of history, it’s also home to the city’s best Italian food. The narrow cobblestone streets beckon you to explore in search of a romantic dinner or dessert to whisk you back to the Old County. Indulge in the slight crunch of cannoli or a sweet rum cake...or both. With North End accommodation like Bricco Suites, you can easily take some back to your hotel for later.

When does the Boston Marathon start?

In a city so steeped in history, it may come as no surprise that even the Boston Marathon has been around since the late 19th century. You can join in the revelry on the third Monday each April, when the world’s elite runners begin the race in the town of Hopkinton at 9:30 a.m. You’ve plenty of time to cruise over to the finish line from downtown Boston hotels, though. Stroll past the quaint brownstones and boutiques of Tremont Street, stopping in the Boston Public Garden for a leisurely ride on the swan boats or a delicious cup of coffee. Reach Copley Square about two hours later to catch the first runners crossing the finish line.

Whether you seek a peaceful retreat into times gone by or a festive romp to cheer for your favorite athletes, Boston is your ideal escape. Count on Travelocity to find you cheap hotels in downtown Boston, so you can be in the center of it all, without the costs. It is time to nourish your intellectual side as well as your inner gastronome with a trip to the "Cradle of Liberty."