Adjacent to Faneuil Hall and near the Fleet Center, this mid-20th-century hotel was a generation ahead of its time in anticipating the cleanup of Boston’s downtown shores. Most rooms have stunning harbor or city skyline views, and you need only walk out the door to catch the ferry to the harbor islands park, a whale-watching boat, or a water taxi to anywhere on the harbor. The hotel's public spaces capitalize on the nautical theme as well, featuring enormous murals of fishermen at work on Long Wharf and a railing system that mimics the levels on a cruise ship. Summertime nirvana is a bucket of steamed clams and a bottle of cold beer on the outdoor patio of the hotel’s casual restaurant, Tia’s on the Waterfront.

Marriott Boston Long Wharf Amenities:

• 402 rooms, 7 story. Check-in 4 pm, check-out noon. High-speed Internet access. Restaurant, bar. Fitness room. Indoor pool, whirlpool. Airport transportation available. Business center.