You know those great IHG free nights from the Chase card? Those certificates they devalued a while ago?

Well, mine was due to expire at the end of March, and I just happened to have a special someone’s birthday to celebrate. We figured a nice dinner and a stay in the city would fit perfectly for last Friday night. I’m not usually a fan of staycations (there’s so much more of the world to see!), but we made an exception for this one.

Luckily for us, the Kimpton Nine Zero was happy to celebrate the birthday with us!

Booking was a bit tricky, as the IHG system wasn’t allowing me to book my Chase Anniversary night.  I tried a few different hotels and dates, on the app and the website, but it was no luck – even though the Kimpton Nine Zero was clearly showing availability!  I called IHG to book, and the whole process only took about 10 minutes.  Not terrible, but booking online is always nice.

The Kimpton Nine Zero Boston Review

Check in at the hotel was easy.  My girlfriend got there first, and I followed after work.  Her name was on the reservation, so she was settled in the room by the time I walked in, after stopping by the front desk for my own keycard.

I know all hotels say this, but the Kimpton Nine Zero is really centrally located in Boston. The Common, Faneuil Hall, the Aquarium, and Chinatown are all within a 5-10 minute walk. Just a bit further is the North End, Beacon Hill, Fort Point, the Seaport, and the Back Bay. Even a windy March day, we were able to wander up to the North End for dinner no problem. It’s also located right between the Government Center, State Street, and Park Street MBTA stations. Between those three stations, you have access to all four major subway lines – Green, Red, Blue, and Orange.  Getting around the city from the Kimpton Nine Zero is a piece of cake.

(SEE ALSO – Where I “wasted” my 2 IHG free night certificates)

The hotel definitely gets points for style. Though it’s unassuming from the street level, Kimpton and IHG have done an excellent job branding the hotel’s lobby. By day, the lobby and adjacent parlor are bright and open, thanks to lots of windows. As the sun sets, the dark wood and leathers blend into a moodier, urban background. Coming from someone that clearly isn’t one – I felt like I was part of the social elite hanging out at the bar later that night.

True to its brand, the Kimpton Nine Zero boasts a wine hour from 5-6PM in the lobby.  Nothing that stands out, but it’s a nice chance to unwind after checking in.  Or, get a head start on your night out!

Rooms at the Kimpton Nine Zero Boston

The rooms are a bit on the smaller side, but tastefully decorated. If you’re used to urban hotels, you won’t have anything to worry about. We booked a Deluxe King 1 Bed, but there also two bed and suite options.  The bed was comfortable, though it seemed a bit stunted to me. I’m only 5′ 7″, and my feet could touch the bottom edge of the mattress. Might have just been the way I was sleeping, but consider this your warning!

Our Deluxe room had a small coat closet, bureau with a large TV, a side table with the minibar, and a bedside table on both sides. The armchair by the window of the room was super comfortable, though we didn’t really hang out in the room much.

The bathroom had a large standup shower and room to maneuver. Very clean and great design, except for the door. Why they opted for sliding doors that don’t fully close, I have no idea. It didn’t really bother me, but if you like privacy in the bathroom, be warned there’s not much sound barrier.

Amenities at the Kimpton Nine Zero Boston

The Nine Zero has bikes for rent, a 24 hour fitness center, valet parking ($49/day), and the wine hour at 5PM I mentioned earlier. IHG Elite members will also get a $10 bar credit. It doesn’t go far, but you can use it towards your in-room mini bar or towards your bill at the Better Social Sports Club.

The Better Sorts Social Club is located on the second floor of the hotel. We loved it! They had some great 70s style DJ playing, and the drinks were interesting. It seemed geared towards conversation and getting to know each other, judging by the way the tables were arranged. Plenty of space to sit with friends and low pressure servers and bartenders. We each got a cocktail off of the creative (and extensive) menu, but didn’t order any food.

I can wholeheartedly give my recommendation for the Kimpton Nine Zero Boston to folks that want a stylish stay in Boston within walking distance to…well, almost anywhere. There were some families at check-in as well, but due to the small rooms I personally wouldn’t book it for a family. That is, unless you’re booking the suite.

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