Sheraton Commander Hotel

This hotel is celebrated for its historic charm and prime location, making it a memorable choice for guests visiting Cambridge. Its signature feature is its direct proximity to Harvard Square and the Harvard campus, positioning it as an ideal base for Harvard visitors, including students, parents, and conference attendees. The hotel also caters well to business travelers seeking convenience and sightseers eager to explore the area's rich history. Many guests highlight the exceptional staff, consistent cleanliness, and comfortable accommodations as key reasons for their positive experience. For families and couples, the hotel offers a blend of classic elegance and modern comfort. To enhance your stay, be aware of ongoing renovations and consider utilizing the excellent public transportation options nearby for easy city exploration.

Facilities & Amenities
Guest feedback on the hotel's facilities and amenities is mixed. The gym is generally described as adequate for a workout, though some guests found it to be outdated, small, or occasionally too warm, while others appreciated its cleanliness and range of dumbbells. The elevators are a frequent point of discussion, often noted as being tiny, slow, and sometimes described as "terrifying" or taking an "eternity" to arrive, which can impact convenience. A common complaint is the absence of a mini-fridge or minibar in the rooms, and some guests were surprised to find no vending machines available. While Wi-Fi speed and coverage were praised by some, others experienced slow or sporadic connectivity, though recent upgrades have reportedly improved this. The hotel's club lounge has been a source of frustration for many, as it remains closed, often with "COVID" cited as the reason, leading to a perceived lack of expected benefits for elite members.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
The hotel generally receives high praise for its cleanliness, with many guests describing rooms as spotless and very clean, contributing to a comfortable and safe environment. Most guests found the beds to be very comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep, though a few reported issues with "valleys" or excessive firmness. Room size elicits mixed reviews; while many found their rooms to be spacious and large, others described them as small, tiny, or cramped, particularly the bathrooms. These bathrooms are frequently mentioned as being dated, small, and sometimes problematic, with issues like low water pressure, non-functional shower adjustment knobs, and doors that cannot open fully due to the toilet's placement. Noise levels vary, with some guests enjoying quiet stays, while others reported disturbances from street traffic, police sirens, or noisy air conditioning units. In-room amenities are often noted as limited, with guests wishing for items like wine glasses, slippers, or more comprehensive toiletries, and some expressing disappointment with plastic cups instead of glass.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel's dining options, particularly the in-house restaurant, Nubar, receive considerable attention. Breakfast garners mixed reviews; while many guests found it to be delicious, fresh, and offering a good variety, others felt it was expensive, not included in the room rate, or somewhat bland. Despite the cost, the quality of the food often exceeded expectations. Nubar, the hotel's main restaurant and bar, is widely praised for its excellent food, great meals, and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular spot not just for guests but also for locals. The bar itself is generally well-regarded, though some guests noted limited hours or a somewhat old-fashioned selection. However, room service is a consistent point of dissatisfaction, with many guests reporting its unavailability or very limited hours, often closing early in the evening, which can be inconvenient for late arrivals or those seeking a snack outside of standard dining times.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is overwhelmingly cited as its strongest asset, making it an ideal choice for visitors to Cambridge. Guests consistently highlight its proximity to Harvard Square, the Harvard campus, and Cambridge Common, all within easy walking distance. This allows for convenient access to numerous attractions, restaurants, shops, and public transportation options, including the Red Line and various bus routes. The hotel's position is described as "unbeatable" for those needing to be near the university or exploring the historic area. While the location is highly convenient for walking, parking is a notable point of mixed feedback. Valet parking is available and appreciated for its convenience, but it is frequently mentioned as being expensive, and some guests experienced long wait times, with no self-park option available.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff and service generally receive high praise, with many guests describing the team as incredibly friendly, helpful, and attentive. From the moment of arrival, guests often feel a warm welcome, and the check-in process is typically smooth and efficient. Many reviewers commend the staff for their professionalism and willingness to go above and beyond to assist with requests, creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere. However, there are instances of mixed feedback, with some guests reporting rude or unhelpful interactions, particularly with certain front desk or housekeeping staff. Issues such as housekeeping entering rooms unannounced or not providing consistent cleaning services were noted by a few. Additionally, some guests, particularly those with elite status, expressed frustration when their loyalty benefits, such as complimentary breakfast or room upgrades, were not honored as expected.

Additional Information
The hotel is undergoing ongoing renovations, which guests note contribute to a mix of updated and dated elements throughout the property. While some appreciate the cosmetic makeovers and modern touches in certain rooms, others observe that the building's historic nature means some areas still show their age, such as the small elevators or certain room features. The hotel's historic significance, including its facade and ornate ceilings, is a unique aspect that many guests appreciate, adding to its charm. A recurring point of frustration for many guests, particularly those with rewards program benefits, is the continued closure of the club lounge, which some feel diminishes the value of their elite status, as the promised amenities are not available. This situation has led to some disappointment regarding the overall experience for loyal members.