Fodor's Expert Review Renaissance Boston Waterfront Hotel

Set near Boston's working fish piers, the Renaissance plays to a watery theme—in the modern lobby, blue-and-green glass orbs complement a suspended glass lighting fixture, and the spiral staircase was created to look like a nautilus shell. The building is flooded with light, and most guest rooms have water views. Fitness center features a lap pool, not designed for lingering. If that feels a bit no-nonsense, that's just fine with the spot's business clientele, who love the proximity to the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. The mood changes on weekends, when package deals lure weekenders and family travelers.