Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Back Bay/Fenway

This hotel offers a prime location for those attending events at Fenway Park, being just a short walk away, making it a signature feature that guests consistently highlight. Its convenient access to public transportation and numerous dining options also makes it an excellent choice for sightseers and business travelers seeking to explore the city or attend appointments. Families particularly appreciate the spacious rooms, well-equipped kitchenettes, and complimentary breakfast, which contribute to a comfortable and self-sufficient stay. The staff consistently receives high praise for their friendly and helpful demeanor, enhancing the overall guest experience. To maximize your stay, consider the hotel's proximity to various eateries and the "T" subway line for easy city navigation, and be aware of potential construction noise in the area.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests frequently commend the hotel's facilities, including a popular rooftop bar and terrace on the eighth floor, offering great views and a pleasant atmosphere with open-air seating and heaters. The indoor pool, also located on the top floor, is generally clean and enjoyed by families, though some guests found it to be cold or noted its smaller size. A well-equipped fitness center is available for guests, though some rooms located directly below it experienced noise from weights being dropped. Most rooms feature a kitchenette with a full-sized refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher, providing convenience for longer stays. The lobby offers a small convenience store and 24-hour access to coffee, tea, and hot chocolate, while free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, though some found it spotty.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally earns high marks for its cleanliness, with many guests describing their rooms as spotless, immaculate, and well-maintained. The beds are widely praised for being comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Rooms are noted for their spacious layout, often featuring separate living areas and kitchenettes, making them suitable for families or extended stays. However, some guests reported issues with the sofa beds being uncomfortable due to thin mattresses or blankets. While most bathrooms are clean, some are described as tight, and a few guests experienced issues with water temperature regulation in the shower or sink. A significant recurring concern is noise levels, primarily from ongoing construction outside the hotel, but also from noisy refrigerators within rooms and occasional sounds from the gym above.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a highlight for many guests, consistently described as delicious, plentiful, and offering a good variety of options. Guests appreciate the hot choices, which often include eggs, sausage, and waffles, along with healthy selections and Starbucks coffee. While the breakfast is generally well-received, some guests noted that the menu options remained the same daily and wished for more vegetable choices. The breakfast area can become quite busy, especially on weekends or during peak times, leading to occasional lines for food. The rooftop bar is a popular spot for drinks, though some guests mentioned that it does not offer food or appetizers, limiting dining options within the hotel beyond breakfast.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major draw, particularly for its exceptional proximity to Fenway Park, making it ideal for attending baseball games and concerts. Guests find it incredibly convenient to walk to the stadium, often within minutes. Beyond Fenway, the hotel is within easy walking distance of numerous restaurants, bars, and shops, including a large retail store and grocery options. Public transportation, such as the Kenmore subway station, is also very close by, providing convenient access to other parts of the city, including universities and hospitals. While the location is highly praised, parking is a significant point of concern for many, as the hotel offers only expensive valet parking with no self-parking alternatives, which can add considerably to the overall cost of a stay.

Staff & Service
The hotel staff consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback for their friendly, helpful, and professional demeanor. Guests frequently highlight the welcoming nature of the front desk team and the efficiency of the check-in and check-out processes. The valet service is often commended for being courteous, prompt, and efficient, even during busy periods. While many guests praise the overall attentiveness of the staff, feedback on housekeeping is mixed; most guests note that rooms are kept clean, but some were surprised that daily service is not standard for shorter stays, requiring specific requests for towel replenishment or trash removal. Despite occasional minor issues, the staff's commitment to providing excellent service is a recurring theme in guest reviews.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of the significant construction activity occurring both within the hotel (lobby renovations) and in adjacent areas, which can lead to considerable noise disturbances, particularly in the mornings and sometimes throughout the night. While the hotel attempts to notify guests in advance, the extent of the noise can still be a surprise. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is appreciated by those traveling with animals, though finding suitable outdoor areas for pets nearby can be challenging. Some guests reported issues with electronic room keys occasionally malfunctioning, requiring multiple trips to the front desk for re-activation. The hotel's 4 PM check-in time can be inconvenient for guests arriving earlier, especially those attending events.