Kimpton Nine Zero Boston Review
I spent this past weekend at the Kimpton Nine Zero in Boston. I have only stayed at a Kimpton once before (years ago at the Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City). I was originally going to stay at the Hyatt Regency Boston but when Kimpton offered a free night after a two night stay, I decided to give the Nine Zero a go.
The promotional rate to get the free night certificate was slightly higher than normal. For two nights (Friday and Saturday), I paid $620 plus tax. It is the most I have paid for a hotel for quite some time (ever?) but a free night at any IHG property plus points from the Accelerate promo pushed me to splurge.
Location
This was my first time visiting Boston and I was excited that the Nine Zero is located in the heart of the city. From the entrance you can look across the street and see Samuel Adams’ grave stone. Just a half block away is Boston Commons. All the historical sites are within a few blocks. It is a fantastic location.
Coming in from the airport, I took the Blue Line to the State Street station. From there it was a short 5 minute walk to the hotel. It is located on the same block as the Omni Hotel. The Downtown Crossing and Park Street subway stations are all very close by.
The main entrance is on Tremont and if you are driving, there is an alley where you can unload and valet. The building is only about 12 years old, though the interior underwent a renovation this past year (2018).
Check In
I arrived around 4:30pm and there was a bit of a wait (partly because a extremely rude woman decided to cut in front of me). There were only two agents working the front desk, it was a Friday and it seemed that there was a large number of guests that were going to a convention.
Once it was my turn I was quickly checked in (though they had some problems with their credit card reader). I mentioned the social media secret password (“Out of Office”) and was presented with six “straws” to pick from at random. My straw said “Free bottle of wine” which I was promptly presented with.
I was also given my $10 raid the bar certificate as a welcome amenity. It was explained that breakfast was on the 2nd floor and is included for all guests.
Off the check in area is a lounge area where the wine reception occurs 5-6pm daily.
There is a lot of art throughout the common areas.
Room
I booked a standard King Deluxe room but was upgraded as a Platinum Elite to King City Skyline room on the 18th floor (Room 1809). The rooms on floors 16-19 have extra large windows and views of the city.
The room is larger than the standard room but still not particularly huge at 350 sq ft. As you enter, the bathroom is on the right and the bed to your left.
The bed has a beautiful leather headboard and is extremely comfortable.
Next to the window is a Eames lounge chair.
Against the wall is the built in wall mounted TV and desk.
Apparently some rooms have mini bars though mine did not (I could either order a mini bar item to be delivered or use my $10 credit in the bar downstairs).
Overall the decor is minimalist with woods, leather and metal. It has a very modern and hip vibe that brings in touches of Boston.
The view is quite fantastic (despite seeing the neighboring roof).
Near the bathroom is a closet with safe, robes, umbrella and yoga mat. There is no dresser for clothing, but there are drawers in the desk that could be used for unpacking.
I have two complaints about the room. First, there is no sound proofing. I could hear other guests’ conversations clearly. I also heard the elevator ding constantly.
Second complaint is the bedding. Instead of a duvet cover, they use two flat sheets. This is my number one complaint at hotels. It means that during the night you are exposed to the comforter that (I am willing to bet) does not get laundered between each guest. I really don’t want my body touching the bedding that others have touched.
Bathroom
The bathroom continues the minimalist modern vibe with light tiles and dark walls. A single vanity gives plenty of counter space.
Four bath towels are provided. The toilet does not have a powerful flush though the water pressure in the shower and sink are fine. The sink knobs are counter intuitive and take some getting used to in terms of temperature setting.
The bathtub is cast iron and shows a bit of wear and tear. It is a pretty standard tub; not particularly deep for soaking. The shower head is basic.
The bath amenities are small bottles of Atelier Bloem (I believe the Kimpton standard). Only one bar of soap is provided so prepare to swap between sink and shower.
Breakfast
Breakfast (which is included for all guests) is currently served in the Highball Lounge on the second floor. I understand that it will be closing later this month for a remodel. Currently you are seated by the host and it is self serve. The selection includes pastries, cheese, fruit, cereal and yogurt in addition to juice and coffee.
If you want a hot breakfast, you can order a selection of items for an additional fee.
The Highball Lounge turns in to a bar in the evenings. Again, the concept is changing so I can’t saw what it will be like for future guests.
There is no pool however there is a 24 hour gym available for guests. Bikes are also available for free to borrow to tour the city.
Service
I found the service to be quite attentive. For example, housekeeping cleaned my room while I was at breakfast. I assume that when I checked in for breakfast, they notified housekeeping to clean my room. Turn down service was also offered during the second evening of my stay.
I also worked with the concierge to find theater tickets. Though she was unable to find me any, she was very friendly and followed up with me to let me know she had been unsuccessful.
Overall
The Kimpton Nine Zero is in a great location along the Freedom Trail near Boston Commons and all the sights downtown. It is a modern hotel with a boutique feel. All guests are provided a basic breakfast in the morning. If you can get a high floor, you will have some fantastic views of the city. Rates seem to be pretty average for high end properties in Boston. Award nights go for 60,000 IHG points per night. I would suggest booking a refundable room rate and watching to see if your price goes down closer to your stay. Overall it is a great property in a fantastic location.
