The Newbury Boston: A blissful Back Bay escape

The Newbury Boston offers a quintessential, luxury Back Bay getaway with almost a century of hospitality history under its belt.

Opened originally in 1927 as a Ritz-Carlton hotel, The Newbury Boston features nearly 300 rooms, 16,000 square feet of event spaces, dining and more. The property underwent a restoration and revitalization led by Highgate Hotels that finished in 2021 with results paying homage to its past and adding an elevated, modern twist.  

The property lives steps from The Public Garden, an ideal location for any first-time or repeat visitor to the city.

With a main entrance on Newbury Street, hotel guests are received in a terrace area inspired by the Public Garden. The hotel’s well-known neoclassical façade is spotlighted by grand window awnings and lighting—it’s the picture of New England splendor.

And the thoughtful details continue through the property with the inclusion of original chandeliers, marble columns, a selection of art and rich-hued wood accenting deep blue walls. It’s elegant, warm and inviting with a touch of legacy-infused majesty. 

With 286 rooms, 90 suites and two presidential suites, living spaces at The Newbury Boston strike the balance between fresh and comfortable. 

With plush bedding and furnishing anchoring each space, the color palette of grey, blue and cream fosters a contemporary appeal while feeling homey. Designed by Champalimaud Design, the rooms are accented with marble, wood and herringbone touches.

Forty-two suites are home to fireplaces—which can be lit upon request by the hotel’s “Fireplace Butler.” While staying at The Newbury Boston, I opted to curl up on the couch as the fire crackled and I unwound after a day of travel before meeting girlfriends for a late dinner. I can confirm that it is a special kind of treat to have access to a wood-burning fireplace in one’s hotel room. 

Many rooms are also appointed with views of the Public Garden, Newbury Street or Commonwealth Avenue which can be looked upon from blue velvet seating—another detail that adds to the Bostonian appeal of the hotel.

Each room is adorned with artwork by Veronica Lawlor and includes amenities from Frette, Nespresso and bespoke linens. Housekeeping is offered twice daily with turndown service in the evenings.

The property is home to two dining concepts in partnership with Major Food Group: The Street Bar and Contessa. 

Designed by Jeffrey Beers International, the Street Bar is aptly named given its location off the hotel’s Arlington Street entrance, where it boasts Public Garden views. The space is intended to be transportive, to bring guests to the roaring twenties with a speakeasy feel featuring leather barstools, a fireplace and wood details.

Meanwhile, several stories up, Contessa is perched above Boston offering not only a lovely view but a glamorous setting that cannot be beat. The restaurant, which has its own claim to fame, is 4,000 square feet encased in glass, known for its colorful design featuring pink hues, tiling and lush greenery. 

The dining concept offers delicious Italian cuisine and delightful cocktails. 

Twenty-four hour in-room dining is also available.

Guests have access to the hotel’s fitness center which is bright, airy and well-equipped. The gym features varying fitness machines including Peloton bikes, yoga mats, weights and a hydration station.

The Newbury Boston offers additional services for guests including in-room personal device streaming technology, PressReader to provide access to newspapers and magazines, and a custom app through OpenKey. The hotel also offers shoe shine service and pets are welcome.

Given the Newbury Street location, there is plenty to do in the neighborhood, which is filled with high-end shopping options beginning with the Tiffany & Company store located in the hotel’s lobby. 

Nearby retailers include Chanel, Brunello Cucinelli, Cartier, J.Crew, Loro Piana and more. And shopping is accompanied by an abundance of eateries including Select Oyster Bar and a host of other options. 

Of course, Boston’s Public Garden across the street from the hotel is ripe for strolling and exploring. Other nearby attractions include Copley Square, Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library.

Location: Boston, Massachusetts 

Rating: Five-star

Pricing: Rooms start at $600

Amenities: Multiple restaurants, fitness center, meeting and event space, fireplaces and more.

Airport: Boston Logan International Airport