What it is

An art-stocked 237-room gem on the Charles River with sumptuous interiors, a locally beloved New American restaurant and a lobby bar complete with a flickering fireplace.

What it isn't

Poorly equipped. Guests have unfettered access to loaner PUBLIC bikes, kayaks and paddleboards, scooters, and even video workouts with Olympic champ Nastia Liukin.

What we think

Even in a town known for its smarts (it is home to Harvard and M.I.T., after all), Kimpton Marlowe Hotel is renowned for brilliance. There’s the bottomless amenities list, which ranges from Atelier Bloem toiletries to seasonal movies in the courtyard. The luxuries continue in the guest rooms, with their channel tufted headboards, plush velvet armchairs and prime city or canal views from windows that practically span the whole wall. Rooms start at 340 square feet; to feel like a tenured professor, it’s worth upgrading to the 1 Bedroom Suite, which is a whopping 650 square feet and stocked with a separate living room and deep Fuji spa soaking tub in the spa-like bath. While you’re here, be sure to stop in at the lobby bar for a dram of top-shelf whiskey…and don’t forget to bring your deepest, most profound thoughts for conversation. Tis Cambridge, after all.

You're here because

You’re a Kimpton devotee, having grown used to the brand’s constant pampering—which includes gratis wine receptions, La Colombe coffee, and a truly pet friendly policy that includes water bowls, pick-up bags and zero fees.

The Moment

Bellied up to the bar at Bambara, you’re not surprised this place has been a local mainstay for more than 15 years…especially after you tuck into your lobster roll with lemon aioli and thick fries. It is, as they say in these parts, wicked good.

Restaurants & Bars

Bambara Kitchen + Bar - Globally-inspired, new American cuisine

Cambridge Lobby Bar - An ideal setting for a glass of wine or traditional cocktail

Location

Fronting the Lechmere Canal and Charles River, just two miles from Harvard University

(founded in 1636) and one block from the Museum of Science, where experiences include flying a virtual drone to trail Arctic foxes and ogling a full size Tyrannosaurus rex model.