I am coming to Boston for four nights in September with a friend. We would like to stay in a fun area--close to great restaurants, shopping, etc. Several people have recommended Back Bay. We have reservations at the Midtown Hotel right now--as all of the nicer hotels are $450 to $500 a night!!

Is this the best area for us--or should we be looking elsewhere?

I live in the Boston area and think the Back Bay area is a nice place to stay as there is lots of shopping and dining. The Midtown Hotel is in a decent location (just on the border of Back Bay) and should be quite safe. I have no idea if the rooms are o.k. I am always shocked when I drive by it that it takes up such an expensive piece of property and wonder how they manage....would want to check out tripadvisor or other reviews of the hotel to be sure. It is right next to the Colonnade Hotel and two blocks from the Marriott Back Bay.

Another great area to stay in is on the harbor or near Government Center. You can walk the Freedom Trail, Aquarium, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, etc. Or catch streetcar to Back Bay restaurants and shopping.

We're also in Boston on a budget in September and decided on the Newbury Guest House in the Backbay Area. A pleasant-looking B&B for around $150 a night. It's frequently recommended here and elsewhere.

I stayed in Back Bay and was definitely pleased with choosing that area. I stayed at the Sheraton which was joined onto the Prudential Center and very near the T.

It's a perfect location for restaurants, shopping which you specifically mention.

We just stayed at the the new Jurys Hotel, bordering Back Bay and the South End. It was a great location and was reasonably priced, $175.

I just stayed in the Midtown Hotel when attending a conference. IMO it is in a great location, very convenient to the Prudential Center and many T stops.