Boston Hotels and Car Rental

Question

Hi!

I am flying into Boston (Logan) from the U.K. early June to start a road trip. I am meeting my friends at the airport (they live in America). We will be staying 2/3 nights in Boston before starting the road trip. Are we better off getting a car for pick-up at the airport or after we have spent our 2/3 days? Any recommendations for hotels under $200 a night that are pretty central? Hotels with history/ghost speculation would be especially appreciated. Any recommendations for best car hire websites e.g. is Kayak okay or should we be using direct?

Thanks in advance!

Answer

It sounds like you have an exciting trip ahead! Here’s some guidance on car rental, hotels, and other details for your time in Boston before your road trip:

Car Rental: Airport Pickup vs. After Your Stay

For a short stay of 2-3 days in Boston, it’s generally easier and more convenient to *not* rent a car immediately upon arrival. Boston is a compact city with great public transportation, and driving and parking in the city, especially near popular areas, can be challenging. Most visitors find it more hassle-free to use public transit or walk around during their stay. You can easily take the Silver Line from Logan Airport into the city center (a 20-minute ride) and use Uber, Lyft, or taxis for short trips around town. If you're planning to do a lot of sightseeing in the city, you can take advantage of Boston’s historic sites, museums, and restaurants without a car.

If you're planning a road trip after exploring Boston, it’s better to rent the car when you're ready to leave the city. There are several car rental locations in central Boston or at the airport that offer easy access when you're ready to hit the road.

Hotels Under $200 a Night

Boston has many charming hotels, and some even have historical significance or a touch of ghost speculation. Here are a few options that should fit your budget and offer a central location:

The Boxer Boston: A stylish and historic hotel located in the West End, near TD Garden and the North End. This former mid-20th century police headquarters has a modern vibe, but it’s known for its rich history. It's not specifically haunted, but it's a beautiful blend of old and new.
The Eliot Hotel: Situated in the Back Bay neighborhood, this elegant hotel offers a boutique feel, and its history makes it an interesting option. It’s near lots of shops, restaurants, and attractions. It’s often mentioned as a place with potential ghost stories, adding a bit of mystery to its charm.
The Omni Parker House: This is Boston's oldest continuously operating hotel and boasts a rich history with some ghost stories tied to it, including sightings of former employees and visitors from the past. It’s located in downtown Boston, near the Boston Common and Theatre District, making it central to many attractions.
The Bostonian Boston: Located near Faneuil Hall, this hotel offers great value and history, as it’s situated in a part of Boston known for its Colonial past. While it’s not known for ghost sightings, it’s a historic hotel that’s perfect for exploring the city's iconic landmarks.
The Hawthorne Hotel (Salem, MA – if you plan to venture to Salem): If you’re open to a day trip, Salem is just a 30-minute drive from Boston, and The Hawthorne is an iconic haunted hotel known for ghost stories. It could add some spooky fun to your trip.

Car Hire Websites

When booking a car rental, using websites like Kayak is a great option for comparing prices across different rental companies. However, it’s important to check both third-party sites (like Kayak, Expedia, or AutoSlash) and the rental company websites directly, as sometimes booking directly with the company offers better deals, special discounts, or more flexibility with cancellations. Popular and reliable car rental companies include:

Enterprise: Known for excellent customer service and a wide range of vehicles.
Hertz: Offers great deals and has a large network in the Boston area.
Alamo: A great option for competitive pricing and convenient pickup and drop-off locations.
Budget: Often offers more affordable options and is good for travelers looking to keep costs low.

Booking directly with the company can sometimes offer perks such as free upgrades or discounts, especially if you’re a member of their loyalty program. Be sure to check for any special promotions or discounts on the official rental company websites.

Additional Tips

Transportation in Boston: If you’re spending your time mostly sightseeing, consider using Boston’s public transport system (the "T"), walking, or taking short rideshares to get around. It’s convenient, and parking can be expensive and limited.
Parking in Boston: If you decide to rent a car early, be aware that parking in Boston can be expensive, especially in the downtown area. Many hotels offer valet parking, but it can cost upwards of $40 per day. Alternatively, you could use a parking app like SpotHero to find cheaper options.

Overall, renting the car after your 2-3 days in Boston would be more convenient and save you from the hassle of driving in the city. As for hotels, there are several great options for under $200 a night that offer a central location and rich history. Enjoy your time in Boston and your road trip!

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