Fall is one of the most beautiful times of year in New England. From crisp autumn mornings to the colorful foliage, it’s a stunning time to visit.
One of the best ways to soak in the picturesque scenery is with a visit to Harvard Square. Surrounded by Ivy League institutions, sidewalk cafés, record shops, and indie bookstores, the popular tourist destination remains a top pick not only for its eclectic vibe and place of learning, but also for its world-class music, lively arts scene, and top-notch dining.
Whether you are an outdoorsy person or someone who simply loves to soak in historic architecture, there is something for everyone to do here.
An even better way to experience all the neighborhood has to offer is with an overnight at The Charles Hotel.
Known as “the smart place to stay,” the property has welcomed numerous celebrities and politicians over the past 40 years (think Lady Gaga and the Clintons).
Whether you are looking to escape for a weekend getaway or to prefer to indulge in a weeklong stay, the pet-friendly property is sure to provide an unforgettable visit. Luxurious accommodations here range from a Deluxe King Guest Room to a lavish 1,195-square-foot West Wing Presidential Suite.
The comfortable guest rooms designed for business or leisure are clad with rustic Shaker furniture, plaid carpeting, and paneled walls.
Spacious rooms feature a king bed with Frette linens and a goose-down comforter. There is also an oversized desk, a winged chair with matching ottoman, and bedside reading amenity.
Updated Carrara marble bathrooms offer a walk-in rain shower, mirror TV, and Grown Alchemist refillable bath products.
Each of the rooms here offers breathtaking views of either Harvard Square, the Charles River, Cambridge, or Boston.
For a specialty experience, you can elevate your stay with a curated package like the Stay and Park, Bed and Breakfast, or Doggone Smart Program that includes a deluxe dog bed, an arrival kit with bandana, leash, and pickup bags, plus interactive smart toys and puzzles designed “to stimulate their mind.”
When it comes to dining, there are several reasons to never have to leave the property. Whether you are looking for a weekend brunch, legendary jazz soiree, farm-to-table dinner, a place to enjoy a 1940’s-inspired craft cocktail, or innovative Italian sfizi, the hotel has got you covered.
Henrietta’s Table has been at the forefront of the farm-to-table dining movement since it opened here 30 years ago.
Focused on featuring creative fare prepared with fresh ingredients from local farmers and artisans, the restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily with an a la carte brunch offered on Saturdays, and a limitless brunch buffet held on Sundays.
Menu items change here daily based on availability but include dishes like Burrata with pea greens and basil pesto accompanied by grilled sourdough; a hearty warm grain bowl with seasonal vegetables; and a flavorful Pineland Farm Sirloin cooked to perfection served with a side of sauteed broccolini.
Be sure to save room for their signature chocolate bread pudding served with rum caramelized bananas and a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did.
The hotel is also home to Regattabar, one of the city’s top jazz clubs that just celebrated its 40th anniversary; Noir Bar, a classic cocktail bar; Bar Enza, Chef Lydia Shire’s signature Italian eatery; and One Reason Garden Bar, the property’s seasonal spot for alfresco dining.
The Charles Hotel is located at 1 Bennett Street in Cambridge, Mass.
