We are planning a trip to Boston, MA the first week in August. We have tentative reservations at the Fairmont Copley Plaza and the Omni Parker. Any feedback on the hotels, ie location, comfort, service, etc, would be greatly appreciated. Any other advice on what to do and where to eat while in Boston is welcome. Thank you.

the copley is a great place and is right in the middle of town..the entire city is within walking distance and if you have the time than i would get over to cambridge and check out the scene around mit and harvard..

as far as weather goes, then plan on 80-85 degrees and it can get fairly muggy..there are plenty of great places to eat, check out newbury street and you will see what i mean..

Eat at the East Coast Grill. And if you've never dined at one of The Cheesecake Factory restaurants, I'd recommend that one too.

And Ice cream is a must when you are in Boston. Try Toscanini's, Herrell's, Christina's or J.P. Licks.

We have so many good restaurants. Check out the current issue of "Food and Wine" magazine, it lists several of our better ones.

Say hi to Osama's family while you're there!

Definetely for location the Copley Plaza...can't guarantee te weather as it's been a rainy spring here. A block away on Claredon Street, opposite the Trinity Church is one of the best seafood restaurants, Skip Jack, Newbury Street is great for people watching and the North End for eating.. You just have to search Boston in this forum and there are some great restaurants and ideas. Oh yes.. there is a Bostix (half priced ticket booth across the street and there is lots of theatre in Boston.

The Fairmount Copley is beautiful and very convenient to the T, many goos restaurants (Skipjack's) and Newbury Street shopping. Also is across the street from the Boston Public Library, a beautiful place to rummage around in!

EnjoY!

Location of both hotels is fine - but Fairmont is better for walking around after dinner. Also, closer to more restaurants.

Service at both will be fine - the Omni has done a restoration and is aiming to please.

The Oak Bar in the Fairmont is a SUPER bar for drinks.

Restaurants that are off the tourist-beaten path:
Troquet - great wine list (inc. 2 and 4 oz tasting pours) + yummy French food.
Aquitaine - good French bistro in South End.
Claremont Cafe - mid-priced neighborhood restaurant serving American food in South End.

Enjoy!

Bowen, Just got back from Boston this week, you can read the post titled "Boston Trip Report" for my restaurant and bar recommendations.

Mimi- I didn't know you were in Boston! If I would have I would have suggested a quick coffee/drink to say hi!

Wendy

Bowen, whenever I travel to Boston, I stay at either the Fairmont Copley Plaza or the Lenox hotel. The Fairmont is nice hotel, in kind of a glitzy gaudy way in my opinion. The rooms are a crapshoot. Some are huge, others a shoebox. The furnishings are a bit old. The last time I stayed there was about 2 years ago.

For the last few visits (latest in December 2001) I've stayed at the Lenox. It's gotten mixed reviews on this forum. I found it better than the Fairmont for a few reasons. There's more consistency in the room quality. The beds are some of the best I've slept in (many of my colleagues have said the same) and I like the nice robes (small touch, but appreciated). The location is good as well...just a couple of blocks down from the Fairmont. The price range should be similiar.

If you do choose to check out the Lenox...ask the reservationist if they are still offering the "Deal of the Century". It's not mentioned on their website, but last year the reservationist told me this deal pops up during the summer and winter months. Basically you pay for one night and get the 2nd for $20. Doesn't hurt to ask. Hotel website is www.lenoxhotel.com

Service in both hotels are good, if not a bit stuffy. You'll have a great time in either of the hotels you mentioned. Although I would probably pick the Fairmont over the Omni for location.

cool