During our Boston explorations with Porter Escapes, we were invited to stay at the Fairmont Copley Plaza and there I discovered a hotel that’s oozing with historic charm at every inch of the property. From the moment you enter the Fairmont Copley Plaza, you notice the elegant touches but what really captures your eyes is the old world opulence. Such grandeur with well restored original pieces. I had heard about Carly, the resident dog and so the kids were very eager to meet the adorable little pet and was the true highlight of Boston for them!
We were staying on the Fairmont Gold floor and so we were whisked away to a private check-in area and after a long travel day, the ability to check-in away from the hustle and bustle of the happening main lobby was much appreciated. The kids were strapped in the stroller and so they didn’t notice the welcome cookies that were at the check-in area either, phew!!
Our double room was spacious enough that the kids were able to run around and because we were staying there over Easter weekend, the hubs had plenty of spots to hide the eggs from the Easter Bunny. I loved that there was a fridge with plenty of space for us to stock up on milk and juice for the kids and that the washroom was not only spacious, but that I had quite the view from there. I loved watching the city happenings from the bathroom ledge! The Fairmont Copley Plaza is great for families, they not only offer cribs at no charge, but everyone who we encountered made it a point to chat with the kids and that’s not something that happens at every hotel. While Little Monkey was a bit confused by the mini closet in our room (check out the video!), she and Baby Boy enjoyed playing in there when we had some friends visit us with their kid. Oh and one night we desperately needed a humidifier and what do you know? The hotel offers them at no extra charge!
The perks of the Fairmont Gold program did not end with the private check-in area and having experienced it, I can tell you that it’s an awesome program for parents. Not only did we get complimentary Wi-Fi but the complimentary breakfast enabled me to stock up on milk and juice for the kids (we used the to go coffee cups that were available to put their milk in!) and the breakfast had everything from fruit and eggs to baked goods and even salmon. They also offered evening canapes with an honour bar and one evening (post Children’s Museum) we swung by and enjoyed a drink as the kids chowed down on fruits, veggies, mini pizzas, cheeae and cookies. They didn’t want any dinner after that and neither did we! For families looking to limit dining costs, the Fairmont Gold program definitely enables you to do just that!
Of course, you know us, we like to dine out as much as possible so of course we had to check out the OAK Long Bar + Kitchen during our visit. What really surprised me was how well the restaurant has incorporated the historic elements into their new design. I even had a chance to see an old picture of a Merry-Go-Round bar that was once there…how cool a bar would that be? You can spot the metal base to this day…just look down as you walk by the front of the restaurant! Despite visiting the restaurant for a very late dinner, the kids were welcomed and their drinks were served in kid friendly cups. I loved their Lobster roll because unlike the mayo versions, this one had a light vinegary taste. Go here for cocktails and nibbles and experience the elegant charm of space. It’s one of the few places where you can actually sit up by the bar with kids because they have very retro looking bar stools that not only have a back but also allows two people to sit on them! Cool eh?
The Fairmont Copley Plaza is very close to major attractions and we not only walked to the Boston Common (closest playground to the hotel!), and the Prudential centre, we were also within a short walk to Hancock Tower, the Boston Library and Newbury street. Location is key here as you’re close by to the theatre and nightlife. The Copley subway stop is less than a five minute walk but what I found helpful was that we were able to grab the Logan Express shuttle directly to the airport for $5 per adult by simply crossing the road from the hotel! Talk about convenient location!
Carly really is the highlight at the Fairmont Copley Plaza for kids but for me, I fell in love with the history of the property. There’s so many intricate details on the floor, the walls and even the ceiling and the hubs often reprimanded me for not looking where I was going! One late evening (around 11 p.m.) the kids still had energy so they ran around the side hallways (stunning carpet!!) and while they did that (without disturbing anyone), I popped into the many ballrooms lining the hallway. OMG… even if you don’t stay at the Fairmont Copley Plaza, be sure to swing by and check the stunning event spaces out. I was totally able to imagine the high society events from yesteryear. The Fairmont properties do an excellent job at preserving their history while still offering modern day comforts to their guests and this hotel goes over and beyond when it comes to the historic details. I even learned that Peacock alley (the main entrance way) used to have a carpet flooring until they discovered the original tiles from 1912! They’re still exploring various parts of the hotel and are making sure to keep an eye for original flooring and works of art.
One thing is for sure, Boston has some amazing hotels and Porter Escapes, really know how to pick the right partner! For those looking to explore Boston over a weekend, or longer, keep an eye out on the Porter Escapes packages and book your flight and hotel in one go!
Stephanie LaPlante
April 28, 2016 at 7:14 pmWow! The place looks gorgeous!
Yashy
April 29, 2016 at 12:59 pmDoesn’t it ever? So stunning in there
AD
April 30, 2016 at 5:20 pmI love Fairmont Hotels; I always feel like they go the extra mile to make you feel welcomed, special and comfortable. Even with kids, I always felt they were a great choice (especially with the Gold Program and the morning meals – always made so much easier). Looks like you guys had a blast!
Yashy
May 1, 2016 at 5:40 pmWe sure did! You’re so right about them going the extra mile and glad to hear you too think the Gold Program is a great offering for families.
kristen visser
April 30, 2016 at 9:46 pmwowie that place is absolutely gorgeous! The details are breathtaking
Elizabeth Matthiesen
January 27, 2017 at 5:53 pmWhat a splendid hotel this is, love the fact that they found the beautifully tiled floor under the carpet. 🙂