Guests enter the Boston hotel through a grand archway where attentive doormen are always ready to hail a taxi. The Boston Harbor Hotel's spacious lobby is adorned with hand-carved wood, Italian marble, and framed historical maps of Boston. Elaborate floral arrangements give off splashes of color and delicately scent the air. At the back of the lobby, huge bay windows look out onto a lively yacht marina and a gold-domed pavilion, which can be booked for private functions.

There are now two Ritz-Carlton hotels in Boston. This is the contemporary companion to the traditional beauty three blocks away. The decor is elegantly enhanced by a $1 million art collection. Artfully arranged orchids, jades, and miniature Asian-inspired rock gardens, along with background music, create a feeling of peace and tranquility throughout the property.

This 17-story historic hotel features original 19th-century art and antiques, glass chandeliers, and wood-burning fireplaces. Windows offer panoramic views of the Public Garden, Newbury Street designer shops, and Commonwealth Avenue mansions. Since 1927, it has attracted a sophisticated clientele, including celebrities, royalty, business travelers with children, and theatergoers.

Housed in the former Federal Reserve Bank, The Langham, Boston, retains many original details, including marble entryways, bronze doors, Corinthian columns, and coffered, gold-leaf ceilings. Original oil paintings by N.C. Wyeth, antique-style furnishings, and a collection of 16th-century maps are also showcased.

An expansive glass entryway with cascading waterfalls surrounds the escalator leading to the Westin’s lobby. During the week, business travelers occupy the lobby’s upholstered sofas and oversized leather armchairs. On weekends, families and leisure travelers mingle en route to the hotel’s many restaurants, shops, and salons.

With its ornate coffered ceiling, brass chandeliers and sconces, floral arrangements, and gas fireplace, the Lenox's lobby is a refined and welcoming refuge from the city. Traditional in style yet fully up-to-date, the hotel prides itself on attentive, personalized service, with well-staffed reception and concierge desks.

A wall of windows frames views of the Charles River and Boston skyline. The lobby and common areas of the Royal Sonesta Hotel Boston showcase a sizable array of original contemporary paintings and sculptures; a self-guided tour is available.

Popular with business guests and leisure travelers, the 12-floor, European-style Colonnade Hotel also welcomes pets. A porter ushers guests from busy Huntington Avenue into a sedate, wood-paneled lobby furnished with overstuffed chairs and potted plants. Younger guests receive VIP packs filled with treats and toys.

The handsome, understated lobby features fresh flower arrangements, paintings of Cambridge street scenes, and a library nook with wingback chairs. Children love this upscale hotel as much as adults; upon arrival, children receive a gift case of toys and creative materials to keep them entertained. The hotel is frequented by those traveling for both business and pleasure.