The Charles Hotel

Description:

• This nine-story brick hotel, just a block from Harvard Square, has been the place for business and leisure travelers to Cambridge since it opened in 1985. Much of its fame derives from its excellent restaurants, jazz bar, and day spa; the service is equally impeccable. In the guest rooms, the style is contemporary country, with custom adaptations of early American Shaker furniture. The already-posh rooms underwent a complete renovation in early 2006. Their austere design contrasts with the swanky amenities, which include down quilts and Bose Wave radios; bathrooms contain telephones and TVs (in the mirrors -- cool!). And it wouldn't be Cambridge if your intellectual needs went unfulfilled -- there's a library in the lobby.

  Facilities: 2 restaurants (Rialto, one of Cambridge's best, and Henrietta's Table, w/a lavish Sun brunch); 2 bars; Regattabar jazz club; free access to adjacent health club w/glass-enclosed pool, Jacuzzi, and exercise room; adjacent spa and salon; concierge; car-rental desk; business center; 24-hr. room service; in-room massage; babysitting; laundry service; same-day dry cleaning; rooms for those w/limited mobility.

• © Frommer's 2012

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010