PHOTO: Ed Hatfield

Gryphon House

Name: Gryphon House
Address: 9 Bay State Rd., Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, USA, Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, USA
Telephone: 617-375–9003;877-375–9003

9 Bay State Rd., Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, USA, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA

Megan Johnson

If luxe bed and breakfasts are your thing, the Gryphon House will certainly please. Located in a four-story 19th-century brownstone in the Kenmore Square area, the staff of this value-packed gem is helpful and friendly. The Back Bay location means you're in walking distance of some of the city's best attractions, ranging from Fenway Park to Copley Square.

YOU SHOULD KNOW There is no elevator or wheelchair access.

Photo: The mini kitchen area of North Tower room. / Ed Hatfield

room

Suites at the Gryphon are thematically decorated: one evokes rustic Italy; another is inspired by neo-Gothic art. Among the many amenities are gas fireplaces, wet bars, DVD players, coffeemakers, and 42-inch flat-screen TVs. Rooms different in size and decor a bit, so be sure to check out the website before booking. If you're lucky, you'll get one with stunning views of the Charles River or historic Beacon Street.

Photo: The mini kitchen area of North Tower room. / Ed Hatfield

bathroom

All suites have their own spacious bathrooms with oversize tubs and separate showers, as well as robes and a hair dryer.

Photo: The interior foyer, main stairway, lobby & parlor area. / Ed Hatfield

lobby

The Gryphon's lobby is as historic and details as you'd expect from a 19th century brownstone. Hardwood floors sit under dangling chandeliers, with furniture that's reminiscent of Boston's Brahmin history. Even the staircase is extraordinary: a Zuber wallpaper mural wraps along the walls on the first and second floors.

Need to check your email? There's an iMac in the lobby for guests to use.

Photo: The interior foyer, main stairway, lobby & parlor area. / Ed Hatfield

dining

There is an extended continental breakfast. While there's no restaurant on bar on-site, there's plenty of options in nearby Kenmore Square.

LOCATION

Getting Around

A Kenmore Square location means the Gryphon is right around the corner from the Kenmore MBTA stop on the Green Line. Those looking to sight see on foot will be pleased, thanks to the proximity to the Fenway and Back Bay neighborhoods, as well as neighboring Cambridge, if you're willing to walk over the Mass. Ave Bridge.

Restaurants

For a luxe French-American dining experience, try Deuxave (6-minute walk), just a couple streets over from the Gryphon. For casual but delicious soups and sandwiches, head to Trident Booksellers & Cafe (13-minute walk) on Newbury.

Bars

Kenmore Square has plenty of unique spots to grab a drink. For a nationally-acclaimed cocktail, try The Hawthorne (4-minute walk) or Eastern Standard (4-minute walk). If you're looking more for a classic sports bar with games and pool, try Cornwall's (3-minute walk) a British-style pub.