Which suburb for lodging?
 

Interested in opinions as to which Boston area suburbs are best choices for lodging. Intersted in location with shopping, good selection of restaurants, malls, etc. Prefer newer, safe, kid friendly suburb, void of parking fees and major congestion. What's good, what's not? Be frank with opinions. All opinions welcomed. Feel free to suggest hotel if you like. Thanks!

How about staying in Braintree? It is just south of Boston, there is a T station in Braintree that can quickly take you into the city without the hassle of traffic or parking. There is a brand new Marriott (not sure if it is open yet) there is also a huge Sheraton Tara in Braintree. The South Shore Plaza is right across the street and it is very big with many, many stores. There are also nice family friendly places to eat- Legal Seafoods, Joes Bar and Grill, Brew Moon, Jimbo's, Uno's etc... <BR>There is also a large movie theatre in the area and a golf driving range. You would also be able to drive to Plymouth if that appealed to you or to the beaches on the South Shore. <BR>Hope that helps!

Definitely Peabody. Every major chain restaurant plus local favorites, two malls (the second next door in Danvers), Rt. 1 right into Boston, Rt. 128 to Cape Ann (Rockport, Gloucester, Essex), and Rt. 114 into Salem & Marblehead, or Rt. 95 to Newburyport or Portsmouth. Tons to do! You will hit traffic going into tourist areas on Rt. 114, or beach traffic on Rt. 128 on weekends. I think the Peabody Marriott is particularly central, pleasant, cost effective. I'll be happy to answer any further, more specific questions. <BR>

Natick is a good choice - Malls,shopping centers,every type of store you can imagine, restaurants - big and small, chain and no chain (Bertucci's, Olive Garden, TGIF,Bugaboo Crrek, Uno's, Legal Seafood,the list goes on...) movie theaters, access to the "T" for public transportation into the city (parking lots for minimal fee at the T stop). You have several good choices for hotel chains - larger and more expensive to more reasonable rates. <BR> <BR>Good luck!

i have business in the boston area. arriving by plane and staying at the doubletreet hotel - university park. hotel is paid up til fri by my co. my family will be joining me on fri evening and do not want to pay 189 (price quoted) to stay at this hotel. w/o a car can you suggest someplace else to stay w/easy transportation to plane and attractions