Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel
606 Congress Street
Boston, Massachusetts
Growing up in the Boston suburbs, it is embarrassing to admit that when I moved back to Beantown, I really didn’t know my Boston geography, especially the Seaport District. The truth is I never heard of Seaport before, but fear not my friends, after a few weeks in Boston, I got a new sense of Seaport and Boston and now I feel like it’s my city…I run this town…just kidding! Seaport is a fairly new neighborhood, but it is growing rapidly. It is the place to work, to live, and to play!
The Marriott Renaissance Boston Waterfront was built brand new from the ground up about seven years ago. Both times I stayed at this property, I was exhausted from late nights at the office. This property is located close to my work in the Financial District, but not walking distance. It is a short Uber/Taxi ride away though. It is on the Seaport Blvd strip so guests and Boston city-goers can walk to the new restaurant and bar scene. The Renaissance Boston Waterfront is not walking distance to Back Bay or Beacon Hill, but it is easily walk-able to Financial District, Faneuil Hall, North End, and more. Also, it is super convenient to get to the airport by car.
To my disappointment in both instances, no proper upgrade was available, but the room was spacious and did the trick for a good night’s sleep. This property hosts many large corporate groups so many of the suites are commonly sold out during those events. Understandable!
First impressions included a beautiful lobby with high ceilings, trendy and cool atmosphere, with easy access to the connected bars and restaurants. The entire lobby level is a very open impressive space. Also, guests and neighbors enjoy an in-house Starbucks. The Capiz lobby bar was bustling with guests and after-work crowd. I loved the cozy and comfortable couches and chairs as well as a fireplace. A fireplace always gives a space a little something extra.
Like most Marriott brand properties, the super friendly staff was eager to please, and always greeted guests with a warm welcome and smile.
Room: It was very clean, comfortable, and dark which bod well for a great uninterrupted sleep. I didn’t enjoy the view so much because there was so much construction outside. It looked like a huge work site. However, it was a view of Boston Harbor. It is not as picturesque as one would envision, but do see water though!
The room provided all the standard Marriott products and amenities. This particular property is beach themed which I find kind of odd because it isn’t a beach hotel. Renaissance Boston Waterfront is a city hotel catering to business and Marriott loyalty members. I would expect more of a modern, sleek, chic “up-and-coming” rather than sea urchins and sea gulls everywhere. This is only MY opinion though!
The bathroom was small so there was not a ton of room to maneuver about comfortably. I like to spread out a bit when I am getting ready, especially as a girl with lots of hair and makeup stuff to organize. On a positive note, the shower felt great with its noticeably strong pressure and hot water!
I requested a wake up call and it was executed perfectly. They even asked if I wanted a second wake-up call. Just in case I roll over and go back to sleep?
Lounge: In my opinion, the Executive Lounge “Exceeded Expectations”. The space was not overly large, but it was spacious enough and both times I went to the lounge for breakfast at peak breakfast time, it was not busy. The service and variety of food options was impressive. They offered more options than a normal Marriott lounge breakfast.
The Executive Lounge was well equipped and staffed for the size of the property. In the evenings, they do offer a nice spread, but unfortunately I missed it because I checked in after it closed. I revisited the lounge to a get a peek at what I was missing and pleasantly surprised at the selection. It was sushi night and they had three different rolls plus different sides and other snacks. It really looked delicious!
Amenities: Fitness Center was much nicer than I expected. During my visit, guests were using the all the equipment, including the pool. For some strange reason, it makes me happy to see guests use the amenities!
Restaurant: MC Spiedo now called Sapore, Luckily, I had the opportunity to enjoy a nice dinner at the hotel restaurant, This is not your typical hotel restaurant as I did not find it overpriced and I thought the level of quality–food and atmosphere was on point.
Without hesitation, I recommend eating at Sapore during your stay or getting room service! It was a significant level above average hotel restaurant cuisine and experience. Although,it wasn’t very busy on a Tuesday night. I noticed a few groups at the bar enjoying cocktails and dinner.
PPP Tip: There are two entrances at the Renaissance. Can be a little confusing when requesting an Uber so please give instructions as to which entrance location you will be waiting.
All in All: Exceeded Expectations! I will stay here again as it has very competitive rates and excellent service!