During the Memorial Day Weekend, my family and I embarked on a quick road trip to Boston, courtesy of the sleek 2023 ST-Line Elite AWD HEV Ford Escape loaned to us by Ford. With excitement in the air, we left New York on a Sunday morning, eagerly anticipating our stay at the renowned Boston Marriott Long Wharf. Nestled in the heart of downtown Boston, this harborside hotel boasts a coveted 4-star rating that met my discerning standards. Handing over the reins of planning to my husband, he chose this hotel for its exceptional class, and convenient proximity to family-friendly attractions and restaurants. Keep reading as I recount our family’s unforgettable one-night experience at the exquisite Boston Marriott Long Wharf Hotel.
Related: A Family Weekend in Boston: Exploring the City in 36 Hours
A Rocky Start to Our Stay
Our experience at the Boston Marriott Long Wharf started on a rough note. Despite our anticipation to check in and freshen up before our brunch reservation, we were disappointed to learn that our room was not ready upon our arrival at 12:45 PM. This became increasingly inconvenient as we returned to the hotel around 3:00 PM and found out our room was still unavailable, with no clear indication of when it would be ready.
The situation became even more challenging as we had our tired toddler with us, and we were hoping for a smooth and timely check-in to rest and prepare for our planned activities. Unfortunately, it was not until 5:21 PM, while we were having dinner, that we received the call informing us that our room was finally ready. The delayed availability of our room significantly impacted our overall experience, leaving us rushed and stressed. While we appreciate the gestures of empathy from the concierge and the efforts made by the hotel manager, such as offering pool passes and drink vouchers, we believe that further accommodations should have been provided considering the circumstances we faced, especially for the needs of our tired and restless children, particularly our toddler. The offer of pool passes seemed redundant and impractical since we didn’t have our room available to change into swimwear or shower afterward, and pool access was already included in our stay.
Our Room at the Boston Marriott Long Wharf
Our stay at the Boston Marriott Long Wharf provided us with a comfortable and spacious Wharf view Queen room on the 5th floor. The room boasted a magnificent view of Wharf North and the adjacent park, creating a serene ambiance during our stay. With two queen beds, our family had ample space to unwind, allowing our oldest to enjoy one bed while my husband, toddler, and I shared the other.
The room was well-appointed and provided all the amenities for a one-night stay. As we entered, a sliding door to the right revealed a decent-sized bathroom featuring a glass door walk-in shower, toilet, and sink. While the bathroom and room were clean, we did encounter a slight inconvenience with the placement of the shower head, which resulted in water spilling onto the floor. Nevertheless, plenty of towels, and the convenience of ordering extras through the BonVoy App, made our stay comfortable and hassle-free.
To the left of the room, a closet/storage area housed a safe, iron, ironing board, and mini fridge—an excellent addition for storing leftovers or snacks. Additionally, the accommodating room service brought us a microwave, allowing us to conveniently reheat our food. The room also featured a nice-sized desk, perfect for parents needing to catch up on work or handle essential tasks.
One aspect of the room that I enjoyed was the navy-blue paint, adding a touch of sophistication and elegance. I was so captivated by the color that I’m now inspired to create an accent wall in my bedroom with a similar shade.
Entertainment was not lacking either, thanks to the 55″ HDTV that offered streaming services such as Netflix, Hulu, and Pandora. It was a pleasure to relax and enjoy our favorite shows after a day of exploring the city.
Dining at the Boston Marriott
The Boston Marriott Long Wharf offers a variety of dining options to suit every palate. From the Waterline, where you can savor American cuisine, to the Harbor Life Café, perfect for grabbing a coffee and a quick bite. For Marriott Bonvoy Platinum, Titanium, and Ambassador Elite Members, the exclusive M Club offers American dishes. In addition, guests can enjoy the convenience of in-room dining or takeout, easily ordered through the Marriott Bonvoy app.
Although we didn’t dine at the onsite restaurants, we received a $30 voucher for the Waterline due to our check-in delay. My husband decided to indulge in a burger topped with lobster, accompanied by the Black Widow, a mezcal cocktail. We’ve been into Mezcal-based cocktails lately, and this one did not disappoint.
Experience Unparalleled Concierge Service: Your Guide to Boston Adventure
During our stay at Boston Marriott Long Wharf, the concierge team played a pivotal role in ensuring our trip was filled with exciting activities. Not only did they help us book the captivating Boston Summer Nights Tour, but they also went above and beyond during the room check-in delay. Our thoughtful concierge provided coloring pages, crayons, and refreshing water to keep our toddler happily engaged. This dedicated team of local experts is available on-site, ready to tailor your unique Boston adventure. From mapping out historic cobblestone backstreets to securing access to the city’s best tours, attractions, restaurants, sports, and theaters, they have got you covered. Reach out to them at 617-371-9650, or simply find them in the lobby daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Unwind and Stay Active with Exceptional Amenities
Boston Marriott Long Wharf offers an array of amenities designed to cater to your well-being and fitness needs. The state-of-the-art Fitness Center boasts a premier facility equipped with Peloton bikes, cardio, and strength equipment, along with a convenient SodaStream hydration station. Although we didn’t have the chance to utilize it, we appreciated that there was no additional fee and that the center provided ample equipment to accommodate all exercise preferences. Open 24/7, you can enjoy a complimentary workout at any time that suits you best.
Heated indoor pool
The heated indoor pool provides another avenue for relaxation and exercise, open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM every day. We took advantage of this amenity and my husband enjoyed a refreshing swim with our toddler for an hour. Towels are provided for your convenience, making your pool experience even more enjoyable.
Unparalleled Convenience and Family-Friendly Delights
Choosing the Boston Marriott Long Wharf for our one-night stay during Memorial Day weekend proved to be a fantastic choice. For families seeking a memorable and convenient experience, this hotel has it all. Its prime location is close to everything. It is nestled on the Boston waterfront and offers breathtaking harborside views. It provides unparalleled access to the city. Our family experienced the New England Aquarium right next door. Additionally, the hotel’s proximity to historic landmarks such as Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall, and the North End will allow you to explore the rich history and culture of Boston with ease. The convenience of the nearby Long Wharf dock is attractive for families looking to embark on exciting adventures, whether catching a water taxi bound for the airport or embarking on a day-long cruise to the serene Boston Harbor Islands.
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The Boston Marriott Long Wharf truly exceeded our expectations. Offering comfortable accommodations, attentive service, and a range of amenities catering to both parents and children. It provided the perfect home base for our family getaway. Leaving us with cherished memories and a desire to return for future adventures in this remarkable city.