The hype
Travelers are obsessed with the hard product (the design, the pool, the views) but divided on whether the service justifies the $800+ price tag.
Raffles Boston
$500-1200+/ night
Book this if You want the bragging rights of staying at North America's first Raffles and love a hotel scene that feels more like a private club than a place to sleep.
Why People Love It
- The 17th-floor Sky Lobby delivers an immediate 'wow' moment with panoramic Back Bay views
- Butler service for every room category (when they actually show up)
- The Guerlain Spa and 20-meter lap pool are legitimate urban sanctuaries
Quick Take: A stunningly designed skyscraper that charges top-tier prices but is still working through some awkward service growing pains.
Reviewed by @The.Traveling.Foodiee: I checked into Raffles Boston and didn't want to leave. The corner room views are insane, and the marble bathroom with that deep soaking tub was the ultimate reset. It’s pure quiet luxury in the heart of the city.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
You might have to chase down your 'dedicated' butler for simple things like ice or coffee.
- You appreciate a 'scene'—the Long Bar is a legitimate hotspot for locals
- You need a serious gym and pool (the wellness floor is excellent)
- You love high-design interiors that feel residential rather than corporate
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Inconsistent. While generally tidy, guests have reported missed turndown service and trash not being emptied.
- Bathroom hygiene: Mostly sparkling, but isolated reports of 'mystery hairs' and chipped soap dishes suggest attention to detail varies.
- Maintenance: Brand new building, so major systems are good, though some guests report loud AC units and broken bedside controls.
- Linens & towels: High quality, plush, and plentiful.
- Odors & scents: Fresh and expensive smelling; no musty carpet issues reported.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Loud HVAC/Air conditioning units in some rooms
- Bass thumping from the Blind Duck speakeasy on weekends
- Hallway noise during peak evening hours
Before you book
Good to know
- The main lobby is on the 17th floor; the ground floor is just a small arrival vestibule
- Butler service is included in ALL rooms, not just suites—use it to unpack or press clothes
- There is a destination fee of ~$30-40/night that covers some amenities
What to pack
- Swimsuit for the 20-meter lap pool (it's worth it)
- Smart casual dinner outfits—the hotel bars are fashionable local spots
- Earplugs if you're sensitive to HVAC hum
Room Genie
Best picks
- Grand King for the soaking tub (Deluxe rooms only have showers)
- Premier Rooms on higher floors for views that clear the neighboring buildings
Rooms to avoid
- Lower floor rooms facing the parking garage (often Grand Kings)
- Rooms directly adjacent to the 17th-floor public areas if you value silence
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would appreciate a room on a high floor, specifically away from the elevator banks and the 17th-floor bar/speakeasy noise. A view clearing the parking garage is preferred.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the butler service actually useful?
Hit or miss. When it works, they'll unpack your bags and bring coffee. When it doesn't, you'll never see them.
Can I walk to attractions?
Yes, you are in the heart of Back Bay. Copley Square, Newbury Street shopping, and the Amtrak station are roughly 5 minutes away on foot.
Is the pool open to kids?
Yes, but it has a very 'adult wellness' vibe. It's a lap pool, not a splash pad.
How expensive is breakfast?
Pricey. The lobster omelet is famous but will set you back ~$30+, and a full breakfast for two often exceeds $100.
Is there a dress code?
Officially 'smart casual', but the crowd dresses up. You'll feel underdressed in gym shorts at the Long Bar.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, it's pet-friendly with a $150 fee per stay. They even have a pet spa menu.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The welcome amenity often includes a chocolate mendiant with a wooden mallet to crack it—don't throw it away!
- ✨
Tatte Bakery & Cafe across the street is a fraction of the price of the hotel breakfast and delicious.
- ✨
The 'Writer's Lounge' on the 17th floor is a quieter alternative to the Long Bar for a drink or reading.
5 things to know before you go
💡The elevators can be confusing—you have to transfer at the 17th floor to get to your room.
💡Some 'Grand King' rooms look directly at a concrete parking garage roof.
💡The 'Blind Duck' speakeasy is hidden behind a secret door—ask a staff member if you can't find the duck logo.
💡Housekeeping has been known to ghost guests on turndown service requests.
💡The gym has a live moss wall that is surprisingly calming while you sweat.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Raffles Boston is located and what's nearby.