Kid-Friendly Hotels

Almost every Boston hotel allows kids, but a few go out of their way to make little ones feel welcome. The Fairmont Copley Plaza's resident Labrador retriever, Catie Copley, is extra sweet and family-friendly; she's also available on loan for long walks in the park. The Inn@St. Botolph's "Inn-formational" packages are fun for all ages—bring the kids along to cooking classes (including gelato making and, of course, eating) or ultracool glass-blowing lessons. A stuffed animal is waiting for every child at the Lenox Hotel, where the staff puts together myriad kid-focused trips to the Children's Museum and New England Aquarium. At the Four Seasons the VIK (Very Important Kids) lineup includes a complimentary toy wagon, ice-cream surprise, backpack stuffed with games and kiddy toiletries, and scavenger hunts galore. If all that sounds exhausting, you could just drop your tot at the Taj Boston's Children's Suite, or partake of a pre-planned "Family Connection" package at the Colonnade Hotel.

If you're looking for a place for kids to splash around, the Seaport Hotel and the Colonnade have two of the best pools in the city (Note: The latter becomes a bit of a scene on weekends, so your best bet is an early weekday.)

Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau. Request a "Kids Love Boston" brochure from the Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau. The Web site lists a variety of family-friendly packages that include such extras as complimentary use of strollers and discounts to city attractions. 617/536-4100 or 888/733-2678. www.bostonusa.com.