The Midtown Hotel in Boston has undergone a transformation, returning to its humble beginnings after a renovation. This story is a journey through time and space, exploring the hotel's evolution and the surprises it holds.
A Tale of Two Worlds: The Midtown's Journey
In the span of a decade, the Midtown has witnessed an incredible transformation. From a dormitory for Northeastern University students to a potential demolition site, the hotel's fate hung in the balance. But, amidst the challenges of rising construction costs and high interest rates, the Midtown found new life.
The Revamped Lobby: A Pleasant Surprise
As I stepped into the renovated lobby, I was pleasantly surprised. Despite my initial skepticism, the changes were evident. The musty smell of mold and mothballs was replaced by a fresh, inviting atmosphere. A beautiful flagstone fireplace, a stylish mid-century chandelier, and comfortable leather club chairs welcomed me.
The friendly desk clerk checked me in, and I was delighted to find a reasonable rate of $116 plus taxes and fees, totaling $145. In a city like Boston, this is a steal!
Icons of Boston: A Unique Touch
The hotel lobby and hallways are adorned with Warhol-inspired portraits of Boston icons. It's as if Donna Summer, Tom Menino, and Arthur Fiedler are watching over you, adding a unique, local touch to the Midtown's ambiance.
Impressions and Surprises: The Guest Rooms
I was impressed with my room, especially considering the rate. While it may not rival the Ritz, it offered a clean and comfortable stay. The laminate wood floor and new furniture and linens added to the appeal. The tasteful blue-gray wallpaper behind the beds gave the room a modern twist, and I found myself thinking, 'Who would've guessed the Midtown could have a statement wall?'
The Bathroom Test: A Grade of B
Bathrooms often reveal the extent of a hotel's renovation, and the Midtown's bathroom earned a solid B. The overall room experience was a B-plus, a testament to the value it offers.
A Chilling Discovery: The Heating Conundrum
But here's where it gets controversial... My room was freezing! Not just a little chilly, but frigid. I turned on the heat, but the only option was an on/off knob. The thermostat, a relic from the 1980s, was purely decorative. It took hours for the room to warm up, and I found myself wishing for a more efficient heating system.
A Second Chance: The Thermostat Mystery
Determined to give the Midtown a fair assessment, I booked another stay, this time armed with a thermometer. As soon as I entered the new room, the temperature was perfect - a comfortable 75 degrees. The thermostat worked seamlessly, allowing me to control the temperature.
I realized my mistake - assuming all rooms had the same heating system. If you find yourself in a cold room, don't hesitate to ask for a warmer alternative!
Design Dreams: The Verb's Inspiration
The Midtown's design could have taken a bold step, akin to the Verb Hotel in Fenway. The Verb, a former Howard Johnson's, embraced its mid-century roots with style. With the Midtown's 1961 origins, there was potential for a 'Mad Men'-inspired masterpiece. However, such a design would likely come with a higher price tag.
The Perfect Balance: Midtown's Charm
Instead, the Midtown strikes a perfect balance. It offers an affordable stay in an incredibly convenient location. In a city with limited budget-friendly options, the Midtown fills a crucial gap. It's a 'modest independent hotel' in the best sense of the term. Now, if only they could ensure functioning heat in every room!
Conclusion: A Unique Boston Experience
The Midtown Hotel in Boston is a hidden gem, offering a unique blend of history, convenience, and value. While there's room for improvement, especially with the heating system, the Midtown provides a memorable stay.
And this is the part most people miss... the Midtown's story is a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences are found in the most unexpected places.
What do you think? Is the Midtown's charm worth the occasional cold room? Share your thoughts in the comments!
