The New England Aquarium is one of the top attractions in Boston, and for good reason! I mean, who doesn’t want to spend their afternoon watching the adorable penguins waddle around the rocks, seals swim through the water, and be mesmerized by the jelly fish?
If this is on your itinerary, staying nearby is a great idea because the Aquarium is close to a lot of other attractions and cool neighborhoods. In this post, I’m here to help you find the absolute best Boston hotels near the Aquarium. I’ve been to Boston countless times, and scouted out the best hotels that are a 15 minute walk or less to the Aquarium, so you can take all the guesswork out of picking the perfect option for you. So, let’s get started!
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Here are my picks for the best Boston hotels near the Aquarium:
✔️ Best Splurge: Boston Harbor Hotel (5-min Walk to Aquarium)
✔️ Best Location: Boston Marriott Long Wharf (3-min Walk to Aquarium)
✔️ Best Unique Experience: Boston Yacht Haven Inn (10-Min Walk to Aquarium)
Best Luxury Boston Hotels Near The Aquarium
1. Boston Harbor Hotel
Boston Harbor Hotel Highlights:
- 5-minute walk to the Aquarium
- 9.6/10 ⭐️ rating
- 5-star hotel
- 60-foot lap pool with a sauna and steam room
- Fitness center
- Luxurious Frette bed linens
- In-room tablets
- Smart TVs
- Robes & slippers
- On-site restaurant & bar, including in-room dining options
“Everything was absolutely outstanding. Very courteous, friendly … staff. Great room with an incredible view of the harbor. Overall I believe this was our best hotel experience (and we’ve stayed at some pretty decent hotels)!”
– William (read more reviews here)
The Boston Harbor Hotel is not only one of the best near the Aquarium, it’s also one of the best waterfront hotels in all of Boston. So really, you can’t go wrong with this choice. Whether you’re looking for an ideal location along the harbor, celebrating a special occasion, or are looking for luxury amenities, this is the place for you.
Dining options at this hotel are also wonderful. With Rowes Wharf Sea Grille and Rowes Wharf Bar right on-site, you won’t have to go far for a great meal and creative cocktails. You’ll also have the option for afternoon tea and in-room dining.
The Boston Harbor Hotel is also one of the most romantic places to stay near the Aquarium. If it’s a special occasion you’re celebrating, I’d definitely recommend getting a harbor view room if it works with your budget. Usually, I find that the harbor view rooms are only about $50-$60 more per night, depending on the dates of your stay.
Click here to check rates & availability at the Boston Harbor Hotel
2. The Langham
The Langham Highlights:
- 8-minute walk to the Aquarium
- 9.4/10 ⭐️ rating
- 5-star hotel
- Fitness center
- Pool with saunas and pool toys
- TVs with Google Chromecast
- Robes & slippers
- Luxurious furnishings
- On-site dining, with in-room dining options
“One of the most beautiful and clean hotels we’ve ever stayed in. Thank you to the staff, the service was AMAZING and the food was delicious.”
-Donald (read more reviews here)
If you’re looking for the most stylish and luxurious experience in Boston for your hotel stay, The Langham gets my vote. It’s a bit longer of a walk to the Aquarium than the Boston Harbor Hotel, but it’s still less than 10 minutes away, making it convenient to the whole waterfront area.
The on-site restaurant, Grana, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and is set inside an old Federal Reserve Bank’s grand hall. So, the scenery is honestly to die for, and very special. Their on-site bar, The Fed, serves up awesome cocktails and pub fare in a space that’s the perfect British/New England hybrid.
Click here to check rates & availability for The Langham, Boston
3. The InterContinental Boston
The InterContinental Boston Highlights:
- 5-minute walk to the Aquarium
- 9/10 ⭐️ rating
- 4-star hotel
- Nice waterfront lawn right on Boston Harbor
- Fitness center, pool and spa on-site
- Beautifully appointed rooms
- Soaking tubs and separate shower in each room
- Floor to ceiling windows
- On-site dining, with private experiences and room service available
- IHG brand hotel, where rewards members and credit card holders can earn points for stays
“We had the most amazing 2 days! The hotel room was big … but had a working desk and lovely comfy armchair to lounge in. The bathroom was beautiful and spotless. Largest/deepest tub of any hotel I’ve stayed at and the shower was awesome too.. right on the water with lovely chairs that I used to sit and read for a while with the sun beating down. We had drinks downstairs next to a lovely fire and although we didn’t have dinner there we did eat breakfast and it was delicious! Highly recommend!!”
– Caroline (read more reviews here)
The InterContinental in Boston is a great option of you’re looking for a bit if luxury, but your budget is also a bit smaller (I get it, Boston can be expensive!). And since it’s a 5-minute walk to the Aquarium, and also situated right along the harbor, the location is awesome.
InterContinental hotels are great because they often come with amazing bathrooms that feel like a 5-star experience, and Boston’s room floor plans include a separate soaking tub in each room. This is perfect for those looking to explore the waterfront and also have a relaxing escape, too.
The on-site restaurants add to the experience with elevated dining, as well as the fun Vodkaba bar, where the focus is on the best vodkas from around the world.
Click here to check rates & availability for The InterContinental Boston
More Awesome Boston Hotels Near The Aquarium
4. Marriott Long Wharf – The Closest Hotel To The Aquarium
Marriott Long Wharf Highlights:
- Closest hotel to the Aquarium – just a 3-minute walk!
- 9/10 ⭐️ rating
- Wonderful waterfront location
- Modern furnishings
- On-site pool and fitness center
- Dining available on-site, with a harbor view terrace
- Coffee shop/café on-site
- Marriott Bonvoy members will earn points for their stay
“The location of this hotel is fantastic! Our family enjoyed everything about our stay here and there were many unexpected perks (discounts to many popular attractions, and complimentary tickets to many fun activities that were already on our itinerary). Highly recommend the Marriott Long Wharf!”
– Joyce (read more reviews here)
The Marriott Long Wharf is as close as you’ll get to the Aquarium! And since it’s right along the harbor at Long Wharf, you’ll also be treated to amazing views during your stay. More budget-conscience rooms are available with city views, and you can upgrade to views of the water to treat yourself.
On-site, you’ll also be able to enjoy a terrace that’s perfect for relaxing, and overlooks the harbor. The 24-hour fitness center also has an indoor pool, and there are multiple options for dining, including a coffee shop for your morning pick-me-up, and a nice bar with fun cocktails.
Click here to check rates & availability for the Boston Marriott Long Wharf
5. Boston Yacht Haven Inn & Marina
Boston Yacht Haven Inn Highlights:
- 10-minute walk to the Aquarium
- 9.8/10 ⭐️ rating
- Beautiful and unique location on a marina along the harbor
- Breakfast included in the room rate
- Captain’s Lounge with complimentary refreshments, coffee and a pool table
- Fitness center
- Select rooms have balconies overlooking the harbor
“We have stayed at 10-12 different places in Boston over the past 10 years. Many of those were suites in 4&5 star hotels. This was by far the most spectacular location, view, service, breakfast … could go on and on.”
– Richard (read more reviews here)
One of the most unique places to stay in the city is the Boston Yacht Haven Inn, which is both a marina for glamorous yachts, and an inn for overnight stays! Between the perfect location along the harbor, the complimentary breakfast, and the option to book a room with a balcony overlooking the water, this is such an amazing place to stay.
Click here to check rates & availability for the Boston Yacht Haven Inn
6. Battery Wharf Boston
Battery Wharf Boston Highlights:
- 15-minute walk to the Aquarium
- 8.6/10 ⭐️ rating
- Typically more affordable than other waterfront hotels
- Steps from a water taxi stop
- Fitness center & spa on-site
- On-site café and dining
- Rainfall shower heads
- Pillow top mattresses
“This was our third visit to this lovely hotel … The location, view and staff are exceptional. A 2 minute walk in you are in the North End, or a stone’s throw from the Aquarium or SailLoft or Joe’s Restaurant. An oasis in the city, overlooking Boston Harbor, and very quiet.”
– Gretchen (read more reviews here)
The Battery Wharf Hotel is a 15-minute walk to the Aquarium, but also tends to be cheaper than the other waterfront hotels listed in this post. So this is a great option for those looking for a touch of luxury on a smaller budget. And since it’s also right on the water, you’ll still get those awesome Boston Harbor views.
The Battery Wharf also has a water taxi stop right outside its doors, and it will bring you to and from the airport.
On-site, you’ll find a restaurant, a lounge and a cafe for your morning cup of coffee, as well as a fitness center and cozy updates to the room that make it feel special (who doesn’t love a good rainfall shower head, right?).
You’re also just about a 6-8 minute walk from Mike’s Pastry, which is famous in Boston for cannoli 🙂
Click here to check rates & availability for the Battery Wharf Boston
7. Canopy By Hilton Downtown
Canopy By Hilton Downtown Highlights:
- 10-minute walk to the Aquarium
- 9.4/10 ⭐️ rating
- Boutique and stylish feel
- Fitness room
- On-site restaurant
- Pet-friendly rooms
“Perfect location! It’s a ten minute walk or less to everything you can think of! Beautiful views, amazingly comfortable bed and very friendly staff!”
– Kathryn (read more reviews here)
The Canopy By Hilton Downtown is another great option by the Aquarium! The decor inside feels cozy, cool and modern, and has a very boutique feel to it that enhances your experience. The on-site restaurant also offers very fun cocktails, which is perfect for a pre-dinner drink, or a fun nightcap.
Click here to check rates & availability for Canopy Hilton Downtown
8. Yotel Seaport
Yotel Boston Seaport Highlights:
- 13-minute walk to the Aquarium
- 8/10 ⭐️ rating
- Very modern and unique vibe
- Adjustable beds
- Located in the Seaport district, which is very fun
- Fitness center with Peloton bikes
- Resident hotel robot, YO2D2!
- Amazing rooftop bar with incredible city views
“Absolute quality customer service, cleanliness, location. It was 11/10. First time of many, will be coming back! Love love love! Room was also extremely cozy & comfy!”
– Karly (read more reviews here)
Staying at a Yotel is quite a unique experience! I personally haven’t stayed at the Yotel in Boston, but I’ve stayed at a few others around the world, and they’re honestly really fun. The entire hotel has a futuristic vibe, and the rooms come with adjustable beds and modern facilities.
The Boston Yotel Seaport is also located in the Seaport district, which is known for a lively atmosphere, lots of cool restaurants and bars, The Lawn On D, and also some museums. You’ll have to cross a bridge to access the rest of Boston, but this is a very fun area to stay.
The best part of the Yotel in Boston is the rooftop bar pictured above! I mean, how can you go wrong with a few drinks and that view?
Click here to check rates & availability for the Yotel Seaport
9. Hilton Boston Downtown
Hilton Boston Downtown Highlights:
- 6-minute walk to the Aquarium
- 8.8/10 ⭐️ rating
- Inside a gorgeous 1920s Art Deco building
- Pet-friendly rooms available
- Fitness center
- Modern and stylish rooms
- On-site dining
“This is our second stay and it was fabulous! The cafe and Fins are both excellent options if you do not want to leave the hotel for coffee and food. The service is always top notch! We have especially loved getting to know the doormen, they are always very accommodating and helpful with anything we needed.”
– Effie (read more reviews here)
Another great Hilton brand choice in Boston near the Aquarium is the Hilton Downtown/Faneuil Hall, and because it’s inside a beautiful 1920s Art Deco skyscraper, it’s got some character, too.
Inside, you’ll find a great oyster bar for dining, as well as a wonderful coffee shop for breakfast on-the-go in the mornings. Rooms at this Hilton feel really stylish and unique, and since it’s only a 6-minute walk to the Aquarium, it’s a wonderful location.
Click here to check rates & availability for the Hilton Boston Downtown
10. Harborside Inn
Harborside Inn Highlights:
- 4-minute walk to the Aquarium
- 9/10 ⭐️ rating
- Beautiful 19th century architecture
- Rooms have refrigerators and DVD players
- Vintage movie library
- Discount at the Beacon Hill Athletic Club
“The room was incredible, staff friendly and welcoming and the location was wonderful. It was a great visit, we will return.”
– Douglas (read more reviews here)
Last and certainly not least on my list is the Harborside Inn, which has an awesome location that’s just a quick 4-minute walk to the Aquarium, as well as the historic North End neighborhood. The rooms here are fairly basic, but they’re impeccably clean and still provide all the amenities you need like bedside charging stations and cozy bedding.
And since the building is rather historic, some rooms will also feature original brick walls for that added character.
Free coffee and tea is also available in the lobby in the mornings.
Click here to check rates & availability for the Harborside Inn
Which Of These Boston Hotels Near The Aquarium Have A Pool?
From this list of hotels, the following all have pools for you to enjoy:
Where In Boston Is The Aquarium?
The New England Aquarium in Boston is located in the Waterfront area on Long Wharf, and is pretty close to a lot of top Boston attractions in the city. This is also where the boat tours and whale watches will depart from.
It’s actually a great place to stay in the city, especially for first-timers!
If you’re looking to explore other parts of the city, there’s a T stop (which is just Boston-speak for subway train) right at the Aquarium, and that will take you everywhere you need to go.
Can You Walk To Faneuil Hall From The Aquarium?
You sure can! The Aquarium is only about a 5-minute walk to Faneuil Hall, as well as Quincy Market, making it very easy to see both when staying nearby.
What Other Attractions Are Near The Aquarium?
The Aquarium is so close to lots of great Boston attractions, including:
- Historic sites along the Freedom Trail, including the Paul Revere House
- The North End neighborhood, which is famous for history and great Italian food!
- Mike’s Pastry for the famous cannoli
- Faneuil Hall
- Quincy Market
- Piers where boat tours and whale watches depart from
You may also find these posts helpful:
- Best Boston Food Tours
- The Most Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
- Boston In The Fall: Best Things To Do
- Best Road Trips From Boston (With Itinerary Suggestions!)
- Best Stops To Make Driving From Boston To Stowe, VT
- Best Stops To Make Driving From Boston To Portland, Maine
- Driving Boston To new York City: Best Stops & Routes To Take
That’s A Wrap On The Best Boston Hotels Near The Aquarium
And there you have it! These are all the best Boston hotels near the Aquarium to consider when booking your next trip. Whether it’s a bit of luxury you’re after, like a stay at the Boston Harbor Hotel or The Langham, or you’re looking for the absolute closest hotel to the Aquarium like the Marriott Long Wharf, one thing’s for sure – it’s such a great area of the city to stay in for amazing views. Happy travels!
