The Best Bed & Breakfasts in Massachusetts

Martin House Inn sits on lovely Nantucket, a tiny island off the coast of Cape Cod. This charming property, built in 1803, has a roof walk offering views over the quaint historic downtown and harbor. Make new friends around the crackling fireplace in the living room, or relax and read a book on the peaceful veranda or around the fountain in the garden. The innkeeper prepares a daily continental breakfast with pastries and fruit and home-baked treats in the afternoon.

The intimate Barrington offers seven unique suites, with names like the Serenity Suite, the Old World Escape, or the Rustic Retreat Suite, each with its own decor and style. Complimentary extras and amenities include a pastry basket and pot of coffee delivered to the suites each morning, Keurig coffee makers, a snack bar with muffins and fruit, and spa robes and slippers. The inn is located on Main Street in the heart of town, surrounded by art galleries, restaurants and boutiques.

Guests are greeted at the Old Harbor Inn by the proprietors, Ray and Judy Braz, who have owned the Inn since 1996, and with a welcome snack basket. Built in 1932 and lovingly renovated, each of the twelve Victorian-decorated rooms come with Gilchrist & Soames toiletries, luxury linens, bathrobes and complimentary soft drinks. The complimentary breakfast, in the form of a continental buffet along with a signature hot entree, is served daily in the airy breakfast room.

This affordable Brownstone B&B has an excellent location in the enticing Back Bay neighborhood, with several attractions within easy walking distance. The rooms are uncomplicated and comfortable and come with free wifi and flat-screen TVs. Most have private bathrooms, but some have shared single-occupancy ones in the hallway. An expanded continental breakfast is included each morning, with pastries, fruit, cereal, bagels and boiled eggs. Meet fellow travelers in the living room or on the decks located off each floor.

The proprietors, Jim and Dave, bought the Victorian building in 2006 after vacationing in Provincetown for many years. Dogs are allowed in the single pet-friendly room but children are not, as the inn aims to promote relaxation. Rooms are named after artists, such as Dali or Rembrandt, and are appointed with antique-style brass bed frames and hardwood floors. Make sure to check room types as some have shared bathrooms instead of private ones. An expanded continental breakfast is served each day.

Originally a silk factory, Sherburne was divided into two separate buildings in 1844, with the east side becoming an inn in 1870. The comely rooms have windows overlooking the neighborhood or the lovely garden. Bathrooms come with Beekman 1802 spa products; upgraded rooms have tubs along with showers. Breakfast is complimentary, prepared in-house, or in partnership with a local bakery. In the evenings, there is also a wine-and-cheese social hour. Staff will happily recommend their favorite spots and provide guests with towels, beach chairs and coolers.

The historic 13-room Windflower Inn was built in 1850 and is the perfect place to relax and unwind. Venture out to explore the restaurants and stores in town, or further afield to hike through the state forests. The rooms are unique – some having floral wallpaper, four-poster beds or sitting areas. The complimentary breakfast can be eaten in the dining room, or outside on the porch, and consists of baked goods, specialty bread, yogurts and assorted hot items.

The bright and cheerful Seven Sea Street Inn is spread across two properties – the more private Guest House that sleeps four, and the Main House, which has 11 rooms. Quarters are furnished with Emley side chairs, a Chippendale chest of drawers, and oak desks and chairs; upgrade to a suite for a cozy fireplace or gas stove. Innkeepers Matt and Claudia are world travelers with plenty of stories to share over the continental breakfast buffet of muffins, pastries, granola and yogurt.

When approaching the brick exterior of this boutique B&B, you could be forgiven for thinking it’s a refined townhouse. Perfect for a romantic weekend away, spend time lazing on the rooftop sun deck or soaking in the hot tub while admiring the views of Boston. Breakfast is expanded continental and may be savored on the lovely garden deck in the summer. Your welcoming hosts, Stephen and Bobby, will send you off to your stylish rooms that come with Frette linens and Fresh bath products.