Kendall Hotel

Walking into the Kendall Hotel is like walking into a piece of carefully crafted Americana inside an historic Queen Anne building. The decor of this renovated firehouse showcases an antique clock collection, flag prints, fireman memorabilia, and numerous high-backed chairs. Operating in the only building on the MIT campus not owned by the University, Kendall Hotel attracts many students and their visiting families. Black Sheep Restaurant and Bar has menu offerings in line with its classic feel. The tuna melts and organic chicken make it a hot spot for the local lunch crowd, including young intellectuals from nearby Google offices. While somewhat dark inside due to original firehouse design restraints, the Kendall does have a bright, airy atrium-style business center that seats up to 50 people and features its own bar. Views are not a draw for this property, as most windows look out toward unremarkable scenes of parking lots and office buildings.

Kendall Square is considered a cultural center in Cambridge because of its restaurants, bars, shopping, and proximity to universities. The Kendall Hotel is located adjacent to the square and is a quick walk from the Red Line branch of the MBTA, Boston's public transport system. Kendall Square is also the only Cambridge MBTA stop for Boston's popular trolley tours. Once on the train, commuters can access Harvard Square (two stops north) and Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox, is two miles away. Within easy walking distance of the hotel are numerous restaurants, shops, and a rooftop garden across the street that's open to the public.

Rooms and suites at Kendall Hotel are decorated in the same Americana-style found in the public spaces. Patchwork quilts and reproduction antiques add character. The most affordable rooms are a bit snug, while suites are extremely spacious with kitchens, living rooms, and a gas fireplace. All rooms have down pillows, memory foam mattresses, coffeemakers with Starbucks coffee, and basic cable. Most include a microwave and a mini-fridge. Gilchrist & Soames toiletries are provided in the bathrooms, along with walk-in showers. Suites have whirlpool tubs. 

Wi-Fi and a substantial breakfast buffet with hot and cold items like bacon, eggs, and fruit are included with the price of a room. Parking is available for guests in a garage underneath the hotel but it's a cramped space, with a one-way entrance that can make it awkward for traffic entering and exiting. Parking is also subject to additional fees, however, deeply discounted parking packages are offered for those who stay multiple days. The Black Sheep Restaurant and Bar offers food and cocktails enjoyed by locals as well as hotel guests. The business center stands out for its careful attention paid to design and an attractive Zen-style layout. A free wine reception is offered there on weekdays. Access to a nearby privately-owned fitness center is available.