I stayed recently at the Hyatt Regency Boston during a brief mileage run; despite the opportunity to turn around the same day, I thought it might be fun to see a friend in the city as well as some parks and museums I enjoy. Since I was only one stay away from requalifying for Diamond status with Hyatt, it’s not surprising that it was pretty much my only consideration when booking a room.
The Hyatt Regency was in the midst of renovations when I visited in December, and by this point I believe most public area renovations are completed while they move on to refurbish the rooms.
What can I say? Not a moment too soon! I did enjoy the hotel and its location, but my room had a very dated feel not at all like the cool, modern feeling I get from some fresher properties like the Hyatt Olive8 in Seattle or the Hyatt Regency Dallas.
I was upgraded to a junior suite. After examining the fire escape map, it appeared that this used to be a normal room and a separate, very awkward, angular space owing to the building’s “L” shape. Now it’s just a larger awkward, angular space. A couch and coffee table in the middle would have helped break things up into discrete living “zones.” Instead, the far corner had a reading chair all by itself, followed by a bed, and then a big space separating it from the desk. In a square room maybe it would be so bad, but I felt like walking in and just seeing all this spread out before me.
On the plus side, I had a nice view of Boston Common and the Massachusetts State House. The full suites to my left, at the building’s corner, appeared to have outdoor balconies, as well. In retrospect, I would have used a suite upgrade at this property.
Fortunately, the renovated lobby looks very nice. @HyattPR shared a few photos on their blog, and I took a couple shots myself. I was quite pleased, and service was excellent during my stay. There’s no reason to think I would be disappointed with this property once the renovations are complete.
With no Regency Club on the premises, I received bonus points and free breakfast in the hotel restaurant as a Diamond guest. It was relatively empty that morning, but I ate late and I would guess that this hotel is primarily a business destination. I had delicious eggs benedict with Maine crabmeat and my usual grapefruit juice and coffee, with just the right amount of attention while I took my time reading the newspaper.
After breakfast, I took a quick tour of the hotel. The gym and pool were an incredibly far walk. Up two floors, down a long hallway. Then stairs. Then a hallway. Then stairs. And so on. I’m surprised I didn’t have to exit and cross a street! The gym itself was adequate but nothing special. The indoor pool area, however, looked nice and was glassed in with a few lounge chairs.
I’m looking forward to returning to this hotel in the future. It has an excellent location halfway between the Silver Line shuttle stop from the airport and Boston Common on the other side. And if you know anything about Boston, just about anywhere downtown is a short walk.
However, I would wait until renovations are complete. The rooms during my visit were nothing special, even after adjusting for the discounted rate. Or maybe I just don’t understand pricing models on the East Coast. In the meantime, I think it appeals more to business travelers given its location. This hotel will work as a base for tourists — Boston is a very walkable city — but it’s not an obvious pick as it isn’t visible from any of the main attractions.
