Midcentury invention workshop
The lobby celebrates local ingenuity with a 65-foot street-art mural and a three-story tower of historic Massachusetts inventions.
“The decor is a chaotic mashup of utilitarian details, midcentury modern lines, and maximalist art, but it’s a mix that somehow works.”
Where it shines
Notable
A three-story Innovation Tower wraps the lobby elevator core with Massachusetts inventions.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler and AFAR.
That modernist inspiration is plainly visible in the guest rooms, which pursue the style much further than did the YWCA…
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Tree-lined South End streets and brownstones sit outside, a ten-minute walk from Back Bay station.
The rooms
Compact entry-level rooms share hallway baths, while larger lofts add kitchenettes and separate living areas.
The gym
The basement gym is lined with a Boston Marathon mural, hanging yellow sneakers, and Peloton bikes.
Dogs stay too.
At the table
Cósmica serves tacos and cocktails on the brick patio, and Kohi pours Cape Cod craft coffee inside.
For a funky, modern stay in the South End, opt for a loft or suite at the Revolution Hotel, which have the feel of private apartments…
How it began

Architects PCA renovated the 1950s YWCA building, turning former dormitory halls into midcentury-inspired boutique lodgings.
Good to know
Stay here
The Revolution Hotel
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.