Turn Back Time With a Stay at a Charming Retro Motel in Massachusetts

When I think of motel stays, I typically picture out-of-date accommodations, with flickering lights, uninspired decor, and overall, run-down amenities. Motels had their heyday in the 1950s and 1960s, sometimes referred to as the "Golden Age of Motor Lodges," and since then, it feels like they've been replaced by hotel chains and short-term vacation rentals. That is, of course, unless you know where to look.

In her book, Vintage Motels: America's Most Iconic Motels, Beautifully Restored, Ellie Seymour takes us on a virtual road trip through the heart of Americana, pinpointing 40 motels that have been completely updated and reimagined. And one of those hidden gems just happens to be located right here in Massachusetts. Without further ado, let's dive into the magic of the Verb Hotel in Boston.

Situated in Boston's famous Fenway neighborhood on Boylston Street, the Verb Hotel is a true slice of American history. The motor hotel first opened in 1959, then called the Fenway Motor Hotel. It eventually became a Howard Johnson's and hosted iconic rock bands, including Aerosmith. Today, the property has been creatively reimagined and beautifully renovated while still paying homage to its rock-and-roll past.

One reason to book a stay at the Verb is to enjoy its proximity to Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox and the oldest operating Major League Baseball stadium in the country. But you don't need to be a sports enthusiast or a rock-and-roll aficionado to appreciate the unique slice of culture offered by this stay.

The moment you step inside, you'll be greeted by a colorful and decidedly cool aesthetic. It's a bit like stepping back in time and finding yourself inside a state-of-the-art recording studio. Each room has its own record player, and you can find some of your favorite music in the hotel's vinyl library. Seymour paints a vivid picture of the hotel lobby, which is nothing short of a work of art:

"The check-in desk is covered with faux sound-absorbing upholstery, the walls are lined with vintage music posters, and there’s an impressive Boston-related music memorabilia collection in a glass case; not to mention the highly polished tomato-red 1947 Greyhound Flxible Clipper bus on display outside, which has featured in several music videos and film shoots and isn’t a functional bus for travel."

Each room is tailor-made for a comfortable, inspired stay. Bedding is luxe, amenities are top-notch, and you'll appreciate being so close to some of Boston's best attractions. Start your day with a complimentary grab-and-go breakfast before hitting the town, and when you're ready for a bigger meal, come back for a bite to eat at Hojoko, the on-site restaurant serving sushi, ramen, and craft cocktails.

If you book your stay for a warm-weather visit, you'll love sitting by the heated saltwater pool. But there's no wrong time of year to book your getaway; this immersive retro stay is a refreshing, exciting change of pace you won't find anywhere else.

So, what are your thoughts on this vintage motel-era stay in Boston? Could you see yourself staying here for a few nights? If so, be sure to share this article with a fellow travel enthusiast and begin planning your adventure today!

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.