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Look inside the $65 million renovation of Boston’s oldest hotel
The hotel is celebrating its 170th anniversary.
Boston’s oldest hotel just got a $65 million makeover in time for its 170th anniversary.
Omni Parker House, located in downtown Boston along the Freedom Trail, debuted a new look in August after nine months of renovations.
The hotel, founded in 1855 by Harvey Parker, is the longest continuously operating hotel in the United States. It is where President John F. Kennedy announced his candidacy for Congress and later proposed to Jacqueline Bouvier. It is also the birthplace of Boston Cream Pie and Parker House Rolls.
The renovation project is part of Omni Hotels & Resorts’ five-year, $1.5 billion commitment to support renovations, historic restorations, and new developments at its properties. The makeover included all 551 guest rooms (including 57 suites); the lobby, its Rooftop Ballroom; and 23,000 square feet of meeting and function space.
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The result is “a complete rebirth that seamlessly blends its heritage with refined, timeless elegance,” according a press release.
“The Parker House holds a special place in my heart, and designing its next chapter was an incredible honor,” said Tonya Grine, senior director of interior design for Omni Hotels & Resorts, in a statement. “My goal was to restore its timeless elegance, drawing from the experiences of its earliest guests while seamlessly integrating modern comforts, ensuring this legendary property inspires and welcomes travelers for generations to come.”
Guests now enter the hotel’s lobby on new marble flooring and enjoy bespoke furnishings and custom carpets with the Parker House crest.
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The hotel’s Premier Suites have been transformed into “Legend Suites,” designed to honor Boston figures, institutions, and landmarks. Examples include the “Freedom Trail Family Suite” and the “Harvey Parker Presidential Suite.”
Travelers who stay in the Harvey Parker Presidential Suite, located on a corner of the 14th floor, enjoy an oversized bedroom, dining room, butler’s pantry, large bathroom with a jetted tub, and views of the Boston Common.
The guest bathrooms have been redone with marble surfaces, walk-in showers, and curated amenities.
The 3,513-square-foot Rooftop Ballroom, a popular wedding venue referred to as the “crown jewel” of the property, has been “brought back to life,” according to the team. What hasn’t changed is the spectacular views of the city skyline.
The hotel’s 19 meeting rooms have also been reimagined. For example, The Dickens Room, named after famous author Charles Dickens who once considered the hotel his “home away from home,” is now a sophisticated executive boardroom.
The Omni Parker House has been “at the center of American culture,” according to Susan Wilson, Omni Parker House historian and author of “Heaven, by Hotel Standards.”
“From the spirited debates of Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow at the Saturday Club, to the camaraderie of Babe Ruth, Ted Williams, and David Ortiz, some of the world’s most venerated figures have walked these halls,” said Wilson, in a statement. “This work is more than a transformation of the Omni Parker House — it’s a rebirth for a new era.”
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Dining venues include The Last Hurrah Bar and Parker’s Restaurant, and the hotel’s Christmas bar, Blitzen’s at Last Hurrah will return this holiday season.
The pet-friendly hotel welcomes four legged friends that weigh up to 25 pounds. Starting rates depend on the time of year but range between $250 and $500.
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