6 Architectural Buildings in Downtown That You Shouldn't Miss

Reviewed By RecognizeExcellence - Boston, United States

I can't think of many very special - - truly special - - buildings in Boston, that offer overnight accommodations; Marriott's Custom House is one of them. By way of history, Marriott acquired the former, vacant Custom House from the City of Boston, and converted it into a Marriott timeshare resort, comprised of 84, one-bedroom villas (separate living room (with mini-kitchen), bedroom, and bathroom) of a variety of shapes and sizes, about 800 square feet (more than twice the size of a typical hotel room in Boston). I think Marriott opened Marriott’s Custom House in 1999. Marriott's Custom House is ideally located in Boston, it is within a block or two of the Greenway, waterfront, Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, and the aquarium. The North End, Seaport/Innovation District, Chinatown, Boston Common, and the Public Garden, are a few blocks away. The Aquarium "T (subway)" Station is practically outside the door of the Custom House. The Custom House is approximately 170 years old, and it exudes history. The rotunda is magnificent, guests have access to an indoor/outdoor observation deck, there is a fitness center (behind the four faces of the huge, signature clock), and there is a lounge and bar, in which continental breakfast and beverages are served. There are an abundance of restaurants nearby. Marriott does an excellent job maintaining the Custom House, the rooms are spotless, and refurbished. The common areas are clean, although, some (common) areas show excessive wear, and you can clearly tell what furnishings, pictures, ornamentation came with Marriott's opening of the Custom House, based on their high quality, and the often cheesy, cheap-looking, asynchronous accesories that have been added, over the years (pictures, signage, etc). There are many redeeming qualities of Marriott's Custom House, many have already been stated above; in addition to which, is a staff of concierge, housekeepers, front desk staff, valet who are spectacular at their job, and who exude warmth, professionalism, expertise, and efficiency (in particular, Karen C., a Concierge, Christine C., a front desk agent, the many housekeepers who have been at the Custom House since the day Marriott opened it, and Andrea, the manager of housekeeping). Valet parking is available, on-site, at a typical Boston hotel parking rate (less than many Boston hotels), although, if you are flying into Boston, it is quite likely that you do not need a car, and that you can rent an Enterprise Rent a Car for the day or two that you need a car. Do not give any thought to parking on the street, as parking is scarce during the day, and overnight parking throughout the downtown area is prohibited from 2 AM to 7 AM (for street cleaning (park on the street, downtown, overnight, and your car will be towed)). If you are looking for a lower cost alternative to on-site, valet parking, you could consider parking your car at the Wellington Station T Stop (be sure to verify that overnight parking is allowed in the garage), and take a short ride on the Orange Line, to State Street (a <5 minute walk from the Custom House). For a unique, Boston experience, I'd vigorously suggest that you consider a stay at the Custom House, with the comfort of knowing that it's a Marriott (actually, a relative of Marriott International).