It’s no secret that Boston area hotels are pricy — a 2016 study by CheapHotels.org ranked our city as second in the nation in terms of average hotel price per night. To make the most of the money you spend on a hotel here, it’s best to pick a unique one. That way your accommodation enhances your experience of Boston, rather than quickly fading from memory.
There’s a hotel across the Charles River from Boston that does just that. The Kendall Hotel is located inside a converted firehouse in Cambridge. The Engine 7 Firehouse is on the National Register of Historic Places and staying here is a one-of-a-kind experience.
Facebook/Kendall Hotel Built in 1895, this building served as an active firehouse until it closed in 1993. The structure was in danger of being demolished until it was purchased by a couple hoping to change it into a hotel while maintaining the historic architecture.
The three-story-high front portion of the hotel is the original firehouse. You can see where the fire trucks used to pull in.
Facebook/Kendall Hotel
The tower behind it was added to increase the capacity of the hotel. Still, this remains a boutique hotel with 73 rooms and four suites.
Facebook/Kendall Hotel
The firehouse theme doesn’t extend to the rooms, which feature homey, Americana-inspired décor.
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However, firefighter memorabilia is scattered throughout the common spaces, from antique fire patches…
Flickr/Don Shall
….to model fire engines…
Flickr/Don Shall
… and lots of Dalmatians!
Facebook/Kendall Hotel
Amenities include a convenient on-site restaurant and bar called Black Sheep —named after the firefighters here, who viewed themselves as the black sheep of the department.
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From Monday to Thursday, guests are treated to free wine, provided in the Rooftop Retreat, where you can also admire the lovely views of Boston.
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While technically not in Boston, the Kendall is situated a block from a T-station, so it’s a breeze to explore the city via public transportation.
Facebook/Kendall Hotel
Built in 1895, this building served as an active firehouse until it closed in 1993. The structure was in danger of being demolished until it was purchased by a couple hoping to change it into a hotel while maintaining the historic architecture.
Tripadvisor/oyster
Flickr/Don Shall
The Kendall Hotel is located at 350 Main Street in Cambridge.
For more information, visit the hotel’s website here.
If you’re planning a trip to Boston, you may also be interested in dining at these iconic restaurants and these tips for out-of-towners.
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