The Liberty Hotel

My family and I spent one night at The Liberty Hotel during a visit to Boston, and it was easily one of the most unique hotel experiences we’ve had. The hotel’s history as a former jail could have easily come across as gimmicky, but The Liberty pulls it off perfectly. The designers found the sweet spot between honoring the building’s past and creating a true luxury hotel experience. Throughout the property, there are subtle nods to its history, but nothing feels corny, overdone, or tacky. Instead, it adds character and makes the stay memorable. The location is outstanding. Beacon Hill is just a short walk away and offers some of the most charming streets in Boston. We spent time wandering through the neighborhood, enjoying the historic architecture, shopping, and dining options. It’s also within walking distance of the famous Boston Public Market nuts shop, making for a fun stop during an afternoon stroll. For exploring the city, the hotel couldn’t be more convenient. It’s located right next to the MBTA “T” station, making it easy to hop on the subway and reach destinations like Harvard Square and MIT within just a few stops. Massachusetts General Hospital is also immediately adjacent to the property. The hotel itself feels lively and sophisticated, with impressive architecture that reminds you of the building’s former life while still delivering all the comforts expected from a luxury property. The common areas are especially striking, and it’s worth taking time to simply look around and appreciate how thoughtfully the space has been transformed. If you’re visiting Boston and want a hotel that offers both a fantastic location and a truly unique experience, The Liberty Hotel is hard to beat. It’s one of those places that becomes part of the trip rather than just a place to sleep.

Luxurious. Lavish. Lively. Libations. Those are the four words that perfectly summarize my stay at The Liberty Hotel. As a former prison transformed into one of Boston’s most distinctive luxury destinations, The Liberty somehow manages to blend historic charm, vibrant energy, exceptional hospitality, and modern elegance into a truly unforgettable experience. The irony is not lost on me that this is one place in Boston where I would gladly allow myself to be held captive. I traveled from Los Angeles on a red-eye flight to visit family and arrived at the hotel around 8:30 AM—well before the standard 4:00 PM check-in time. Exhausted and expecting a long wait before I could rest, I was greeted by Ben at the front desk, whose hospitality completely transformed the start of my stay. As a Marriott Gold Elite member, I certainly appreciate recognition, but Ben made me feel like royalty. Not only did he graciously assist with an early check-in, he also helped secure what turned out to be one of the most beautiful hotel rooms I have ever experienced. I highly recommend Room 401, which features sweeping city views, an incredibly spacious layout, a unique wraparound design, double-entry bathroom doors, a minibar, and a separate refrigerator. What truly set Ben apart, however, was his attentiveness, warmth, and genuine enthusiasm. He expertly guided me through everything happening around the property—from fashion events and jewelry showcases to the best times to visit CLINK and Alibi Bar & Lounge. His recommendations were so spot-on that I found myself wanting to stay at the hotel and have my family visit me instead. The exceptional service did not stop there. From the bell staff, to another wonderful restaurant server also named Ben, to Sunny at the front desk who seamlessly assisted in Ben’s absence, every member of the team was welcoming, accommodating, energetic, and genuinely invested in creating a memorable guest experience. I travel frequently and stay in many hotels throughout the year, but this experience stood apart. In fact, it was so exceptional that I felt compelled to leave a review. If you are considering a stay at The Liberty, do yourself a favor: experience the property, enjoy its incredible atmosphere, and if you have the opportunity, seek out Ben at the front desk. He is the embodiment of hospitality and played a significant role in making this one of the most memorable hotel stays I have had. Five stars, without hesitation.

Kasey Fielding, Guest Service Coordinator, truly went above and beyond to make our stay as comfortable and welcoming as possible. One memorable moment was when my family and I arrived at the restaurant around 11:00 AM for breakfast. We initially received pushback and were told we could not be seated because it was already 10:57 AM, despite the rest of our party still actively eating inside the restaurant. Kasey immediately stepped in, took charge of the situation, and spoke directly with the chef to ensure we were able to join our family and enjoy breakfast together. Her professionalism and willingness to advocate for guests made a huge difference. Kasey also handled another unfortunate situation with great care and compassion after we discovered yellow body fluid stains on our bed sheets. She was respectful, patient, proactive, and reassuring throughout the process, making every effort to make us feel more comfortable during our stay. After learning that my niece had graduated from the MIT Executive Management Program, Kasey thoughtfully provided a celebratory bottle for her accomplishment, which was such a kind and memorable gesture. Her hospitality, attentiveness, and genuine care for guests truly stood out and helped turn around an otherwise stressful experience. Kasey represents the level of hospitality and customer service that guests hope to receive when staying at a luxury hotel.

This hotel is unique and elegant. The lobby area has wonderful seating, a bar and light menu. There is also a bar on the first floor that showcases jail bars. There are placards that have the history of the building and the renovation in the lobby. Historical pictures are also in the rooms. Our room had a soaking tub and a separate walk-in shower with terry robes.Many thanks to Anna at the front desk for welcoming us and being so knowledgeable about the hotel and the area.

Almost from the moment we walked in, things did not go as expected. TO begin with, the valet incorrectly noted my friend's name and cell phone number. The front desk was unable to find her car for over 8 hours. Her room was not ready at the 4 pm check in - in fact, it wasn't ready until 5. Too many issues to enumerate here - including 6 empty coffee urns in the lobby the next morning at 8 am. Really? That is just a no brainer. If you are going to offer coffee in the lobby before hotel restaurants open, or so that folks can take coffee back to their rooms and move slowly on a morning away from home, then make sure that the urns are full. All 6 were empty! The staff made numerous excuses, along the lines of "it's a really busy weekend" (It was Memorial Day weekend.). Honestly, as my kids would say, "that is a you problem not a me problem." Really disappointing attitude for a place that bills itself as a luxury hotel. The Liberty Hotel certainly was not my idea of luxury, yet they charge for luxury. Yes, it is a unique setting, but I don't think that that alone was worth the price. Would not plan to return