If you like traveling with you dog but still expect to stay at a nice hotel, look no further than Kimpton Hotels. This chain of boutique hotels are posh AND pet-friendly. Each property is more unique than the next and they have a knack for finding the best locations.
The first Kimpton I ever stayed at was in Savannah, Georgia. The laid back atmosphere of The Brice with it’s lit up courtyard and dogs happily lounging around had me hooked.
At first, it was hard to believe that such a swank hotel would be so dog-friendly. Every Kimpton hotel invites you to “bring your furry, feathery or scaly family member — no matter their size, weight, or breed, all at no extra charge. If your pet fits through the door, we’ll welcome them in”
There isn’t even a limit on how many pets you bring.
If you sign up to receive emails from Kimpton Karma Rewards, you will get a weekly email of last minute deals. It also scores you free internet, so I would recommend it. They also give AAA discounts.
One week I was feeling especially frazzled by the kids and in need of a break. I saw a great deal for Kimpton’s Nine Zero Hotel in Boston so my bestie and I hit the road.
There are three Kimpton Hotels in Boston. I stayed at the Nine Zero Hotel which is right on Boston Common. The park was a huge plus for the pooch. When we checked in, my pup had his own fluffy bed waiting, as well as dishes and treats.
Get this- they had framed pictures of my kids in the room! It was such a nice touch. Even though I was away from the little buggers for one night, I miss them the second I am gone. All you have to do is email them any picture you would like in your room before your arrival.
One of my other favorite parts about staying at the Kimpton is the FREE wine reception every day between 5-6 pm. Founder Bill Kimpton wanted guests to “feel a sense of community and inclusion, and relax at the end of the day.” And yes, that includes your pet.
Wine and dogs? Um, those are my two favorite things in the whole world.
The best part about this little getaway is that we did NOTHING and it was amazing. We got Starbucks and strolled through the park. I took a hot bath and ordered room service. We watched Dateline and I didn’t even have to listen to Calliou’s voice for 24 hours. It was heavenly.
The next morning, I flipped through my little Fodor’s Citypack and picked out a few places I wanted to see in the area. I love these little books, because they list the top 25 sights. They are short but informative guides that can fit in your purse.
Boston has so much history around every corner. I wandered through the Granary Burying Ground and paid my respects to Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, and John Hancock. Then I walked up Beacon Street and popped into the Athenaeum, which I had walked by 100 times and never knew was there. Located at 10 1/2 Beacon, this hidden gem is a gorgeous library filled with old books, statues and artwork.
From there, I walked up to the Massachusetts State House. With it’s large gold dome glistening over the city, this is an iconic symbol of Boston. It was a quiet day in the State House so I was able to peek into rooms which are usually closed off when they are in sessions. I really loved seeing the House of Representatives and the Senate. Be sure to search for the “Sacred Cod” hanging in the chambers.
I had to leave my dog in the room while I did this tour. The hotel has door hangers to notify cleaners that there is a dog inside. They have really thought of everything!
The Polka Dog Bakery is about a 20 minute walk from the hotel if you want to grab your pup a healthy, hand-crafted treat to keep him busy while you are gone.
Lastly, the hotel offers valet parking which costs $49 per night. I found easy parking at the Pi Alley Garage which was only $22 a night. The garage is just a short walk from the hotel. I prepaid online so it was very easy to just drive in and out.
I honestly can’t say enough about Kimpton boutique hotels. Besides beautiful properties, they are a brand that practices inclusion and values community. That means that beyond having an amazing time, you can feel good supporting them. The next time you are looking for Boston hotels that are dog friendly, try a Kimpton property. Your dog will thank me.
