Holiday Inn Express & Suites Boston - Cambridge By Ihg

This hotel offers a highly convenient urban stay, distinguished by its excellent proximity to public transportation, making it an ideal base for exploring Boston and Cambridge. Its signature feature is its direct access to the Lechmere T station, which provides seamless travel throughout the city. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's comfortable accommodations, the comprehensive complimentary breakfast, and the generally helpful demeanor of the staff. This makes it a great fit for sightseers and business travelers visiting MIT or Harvard, as well as families seeking value and easy access to attractions. Couples will also appreciate the convenient location for a city getaway. To maximize your experience, be mindful of the significant parking costs and consider utilizing public transit, and if noise is a concern, inquire about a room away from the main road.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests appreciate the practical in-room amenities such as a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker, which add convenience to their stay. The availability of coffee and tea all day in the breakfast area is also a welcome touch. While the hotel offers Wi-Fi, some guests reported it can be unstable or slow, requiring frequent re-connection. The elevators are a recurring point of feedback, often described as slow or experiencing operational issues, with only one sometimes being available. Although there isn't an on-site fitness center, some reviews indicate access to a nearby gym. The presence of ice machines and vending machines further contributes to guest convenience.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives praise for its cleanliness and the overall comfort of its rooms. Guests frequently describe the rooms as spacious and well-maintained, with comfortable beds ensuring a restful night's sleep. The bathrooms are noted for being clean, with some featuring walk-in showers. However, noise levels can be an issue for some rooms, particularly those facing the highway or elevated train tracks, impacting sleep quality. Some guests also mentioned issues with air conditioning (being too cold or noisy) and insufficient lighting in the rooms. While the main beds are comfortable, sofa beds and cots are often reported as uncomfortable. A few guests experienced issues with hot water availability.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a significant highlight for many guests, consistently praised for its quality and variety. The hot breakfast options, including eggs, sausage, bacon, and potatoes, are frequently mentioned, along with daily rotating items. The pancake machine is a popular feature, though some guests noted it was occasionally out of order. While the food quality is generally good, the dining area is often described as small and cramped, especially during peak hours, leading to challenges in finding seating. Guests also noted the use of paper plates and cutlery. Despite these minor points, the convenience and selection of the breakfast are highly valued, with coffee and tea available throughout the day.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is a major advantage, offering excellent accessibility to key areas. It is conveniently situated a short walk from the Lechmere T station (Green Line), providing easy public transportation access to downtown Boston, the Museum of Science, MIT, and Harvard. Guests appreciate being within walking distance of a large supermarket and various restaurants. For those traveling by car, the hotel offers parking, though it comes with a significant additional cost and limited on-site spaces, sometimes requiring guests to use an off-site lot. Despite its proximity to a busy road, the location is generally considered safe and convenient for exploring the city.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel generally receives positive feedback for their friendliness, helpfulness, and accommodating nature. Many guests highlight the efficiency of the check-in and check-out processes. The front desk team is often commended for their responsiveness and willingness to assist with requests. However, some guests reported isolated instances of unhelpful or rude interactions, particularly concerning parking arrangements or reservation discrepancies. Housekeeping is typically described as thorough, ensuring clean rooms, though a few guests noted inconsistencies in daily service, such as beds not being made or towels not being replaced. Overall, the staff's commitment to service contributes positively to the guest experience.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel has a policy regarding daily room cleaning, which may require a specific request rather than being automatic. Several guests reported issues with deposit refunds, indicating a need for clearer communication or more efficient processing. The hotel offers nearby gym access, which is appreciated by those looking to maintain their fitness routine, though one review suggested this amenity might no longer be consistently available. A mini-convenience store located near the lobby provides a useful option for late-night snacks or forgotten essentials. The hotel's pet-friendly policy is also noted by some, though finding suitable outdoor areas nearby can be challenging.