10 Historic Inns In Massachusetts Worth A Quick Getaway

Massachusetts holds some of the oldest and most charming inns in America, where every creaky floorboard and vintage fixture tells a story.

These historic lodgings offer more than just a place to rest your head.

They provide a window into the past, transporting guests back to colonial times, Revolutionary War days, and the golden age of New England hospitality.

Whether you’re drawn to seaside escapes on Cape Cod or prefer the rolling hills of the Berkshires, the state’s historic inns deliver unforgettable experiences steeped in tradition.

From properties that once sheltered presidents to cozy bed and breakfasts tucked into centuries-old homes, each inn on this list has earned its place in history.

Many of these establishments have been welcoming travelers for hundreds of years, maintaining their original charm while adding modern comforts.

Planning a weekend getaway or a longer vacation becomes even more special when you choose accommodations with such rich heritage.

Get ready to discover ten remarkable inns across Massachusetts that promise memorable stays filled with character, comfort, and a touch of the extraordinary.

1. The Red Lion Inn

Standing proudly in the heart of Stockbridge, this beloved landmark has been opening its doors to weary travelers since before the American Revolution.

The Red Lion Inn carries stories from centuries past, having welcomed presidents and literary giants through its welcoming entrance.

Nathaniel Hawthorne once walked these very halls, adding to the rich tapestry of guests who have found comfort here.

Traditional New England hospitality flows through every corner of this establishment, from the moment you step onto the famous front porch lined with rocking chairs.

The inn sits perfectly positioned in a postcard-worthy small town, making it easy to explore charming shops and galleries on foot.

Whispers of ghostly encounters add an extra layer of intrigue for those who enjoy a bit of mystery with their history.

Guest rooms blend period furnishings with comfortable amenities, creating spaces that honor the past while serving modern needs.

The Berkshires surround this property with natural beauty, offering hiking trails and cultural attractions within easy reach.

Seasonal changes transform the landscape around the inn, making each visit feel unique whether you come in spring bloom or fall foliage.

Located at 30 Main Street in Stockbridge, this four-star property continues to set the standard for historic hospitality in western Massachusetts.

Few places capture the essence of New England’s storied past quite like this venerable establishment.

2. Concord’s Colonial Inn

Revolutionary history practically seeps from the walls of this remarkable property, where portions of the structure have stood since the early eighteenth century.

Local militia gathered at this very spot before marching to meet British troops on that fateful April morning in 1775.

The inn occupies a prime location in downtown Concord, placing guests within easy walking distance of literary landmarks and historic sites.

Authors Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau once walked these same streets, and their presence still influences the town’s character today.

Guest accommodations range from cozy rooms with period details to more spacious quarters, all maintaining the colonial atmosphere.

The Old North Bridge and Minute Man National Historical Park lie just a short stroll away, perfect for history enthusiasts.

Walden Pond, where Thoreau conducted his famous experiment in simple living, sits nearby for those seeking natural contemplation.

The inn’s location at 48 Monument Square makes it an ideal base for exploring one of America’s most historically significant communities.

Antique shops, bookstores, and cafes line the streets surrounding this three-star establishment, creating a walkable village atmosphere.

Each season brings different charms to Concord, from spring wildflowers to autumn’s brilliant foliage displays.

Staying here means sleeping where history was made, in a building that witnessed the birth of American independence.

3. Deerfield Inn

Nestled within one of the nation’s best-preserved colonial villages, this charming retreat has been sheltering guests since the late nineteenth century.

The inn sits at 81 Old Main Street in Deerfield, surrounded by meticulously maintained historic buildings that transport visitors back in time.

Historic Deerfield’s museum houses stretch along the street, offering glimpses into colonial and early American life through preserved homes and artifacts.

Guests can literally step out the front door and begin exploring centuries-old structures without needing to drive anywhere.

The property maintains an intimate atmosphere with carefully appointed rooms that balance historical authenticity with contemporary comfort.

Morning light filters through traditional windows, illuminating spaces that honor the craftsmanship of earlier eras.

The Connecticut River Valley surrounds this peaceful village, providing scenic beauty in every direction you look.

Fall transforms the landscape into a spectacular display of color, making autumn an especially popular time to visit.

This four-star establishment offers complimentary parking and breakfast, ensuring guests start each day properly fueled for exploration.

The village itself feels like stepping into a living history book, with costumed interpreters and authentic period gardens.

Few places in Massachusetts offer such an immersive historical experience combined with comfortable modern lodging.

Peace and quiet reign here, far from the hustle of larger tourist destinations.

4. Chatham Bars Inn

Ocean breezes and timeless elegance define this magnificent Cape Cod property, which has been a beacon of luxury hospitality for more than a hundred years.

The inn earned membership in Historic Hotels of America, recognizing its significant contribution to the region’s hospitality heritage.

Perched along the Atlantic coastline, this five-star retreat offers breathtaking water views that change with the tides and weather.

Guest accommodations range from classic rooms to spacious suites, each designed to maximize comfort while honoring the property’s storied past.

The spa provides a full menu of treatments, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring Cape Cod’s beaches and villages.

Multiple dining venues serve fresh seafood and regional specialties, taking advantage of the area’s abundant coastal harvests.

The property sprawls across beautifully landscaped grounds, inviting leisurely strolls and quiet moments watching the waves.

Chatham itself charms visitors with its classic New England character, featuring a picturesque Main Street and working fishing fleet.

Seal colonies gather on nearby sandbars, providing entertainment for wildlife watchers with binoculars.

The inn’s address at 297 Shore Road places guests right in the heart of this sought-after Cape Cod destination.

Summer brings warm beach days, while shoulder seasons offer quieter experiences with equally beautiful coastal scenery.

This establishment represents the pinnacle of seaside hospitality in Massachusetts.

5. The Dan’l Webster Inn & Spa

Sandwich, the oldest town on Cape Cod, provides the perfect backdrop for this four-star property that blends historical ambiance with contemporary wellness amenities.

The inn stands at 149 Main Street, positioning guests within easy reach of the town’s museums, glassworks, and scenic boardwalk.

Full spa services add a layer of modern indulgence to the traditional inn experience, offering treatments designed to relax and rejuvenate.

Guest rooms feature thoughtful touches that acknowledge the building’s heritage while providing all the comforts today’s travelers expect.

The property’s name honors the famous orator and statesman who had connections to the area, adding historical depth to your stay.

Sandwich’s charming village center invites exploration, with antique shops and craft galleries showcasing local artisans.

The Heritage Museums & Gardens lie nearby, offering spectacular grounds and collections that celebrate American culture and horticulture.

Cape Cod Canal provides recreational opportunities for walking, biking, and watching boats navigate between Cape Cod Bay and Buzzards Bay.

Spring brings blooming rhododendrons and other flowering plants that transform the town into a garden paradise.

The inn serves as an ideal base for exploring both the natural beauty and cultural attractions of upper Cape Cod.

Historic ambiance meets modern convenience here, creating an experience that satisfies diverse traveler preferences.

Peaceful surroundings make this destination perfect for romantic getaways or quiet retreats from busy daily life.

6. Harbor Light Inn

Marblehead’s maritime heritage comes alive at this three-star property, where historic architecture meets convenient modern amenities like a refreshing pool.

The inn occupies a prime spot at 58 Washington Street in downtown Marblehead, surrounded by the town’s famous sailing culture and colonial charm.

Narrow, winding streets lead past centuries-old homes painted in traditional colors, creating one of New England’s most photographed historic districts.

Guest rooms blend period details with updated comforts, ensuring restful nights after days spent exploring the seaside community.

The harbor bustles with sailboats and yachts, reflecting Marblehead’s reputation as a premier sailing destination on the North Shore.

Restaurants and shops cluster within easy walking distance, eliminating the need to drive once you arrive.

Fort Sewall offers panoramic water views and a glimpse into the town’s role in defending the Massachusetts coast.

The property manages to feel both historic and fresh, with modern touches that enhance rather than diminish its traditional character.

Summer evenings bring spectacular sunsets over the water, best enjoyed from one of the many scenic vantage points around town.

Local galleries showcase maritime art and crafts, celebrating the seafaring traditions that shaped this community.

The pool provides a welcome respite on warm days, offering a different kind of water experience than the nearby ocean beaches.

This inn captures the essence of coastal Massachusetts living in an authentic historic setting.

7. Candleberry Inn Cape Cod Bed and Breakfast

Brewster’s quiet charm shines at this highly-rated four-star establishment, where guests consistently praise the peaceful atmosphere and exceptional morning meals.

Beautiful grounds surround the property at 1882 Main Street, creating a private oasis that feels worlds away from everyday stress.

The inn sits just a short walk from Cape Cod Bay beaches, where low tide reveals extensive tidal flats perfect for exploring.

Luxurious rooms provide comfortable sanctuaries with attention to detail that elevates the bed and breakfast experience beyond typical offerings.

Breakfast becomes a highlight of each stay, with homemade specialties that fuel morning adventures around Cape Cod.

The property’s quiet setting attracts couples seeking romantic escapes and anyone needing a true break from hectic schedules.

Brewster itself offers a more laid-back alternative to busier Cape Cod towns, with antique shops and galleries lining the historic Route 6A.

Cape Cod Rail Trail passes through town, providing miles of paved paths for biking through pine forests and past cranberry bogs.

The inn includes complimentary parking and breakfast, simplifying your stay and adding value to the experience.

Guest reviews consistently highlight the comfortable accommodations and welcoming atmosphere that make visitors feel like treasured friends rather than customers.

Natural Cape Cod beauty surrounds this property, from salt marshes to conservation lands that protect the peninsula’s ecological heritage.

This establishment represents the best of intimate Cape Cod hospitality.

8. Omni Parker House

Boston’s most storied hotel holds the distinction of being America’s longest continuously operating lodging establishment, having opened its doors in the mid-nineteenth century.

Every American president since Ulysses S. Grant has stayed within these walls, creating an unmatched presidential guest registry.

The hotel stands at 60 School Street, placing guests at the epicenter of Boston’s historic downtown district.

Freedom Trail markers pass right by the entrance, making it simple to follow the path through Revolutionary War history.

Guest rooms combine classic elegance with modern four-star amenities, ensuring comfortable stays in the heart of the city.

The property’s location means you can walk to Faneuil Hall, the Old State House, and numerous other landmarks without ever hailing a cab.

Literary history also marks this establishment, where famous writers once gathered and the Parker House roll was invented.

Boston Common and the Public Garden lie within easy strolling distance, offering green spaces amid the urban landscape.

Theater District venues and world-class museums surround this centrally located property, providing endless entertainment options.

The hotel has witnessed Boston’s transformation over more than a century and a half, adapting while maintaining its historic character.

Modern travelers appreciate the blend of history and convenience that defines this landmark establishment.

Few hotels anywhere can match the depth of stories and significance contained within these distinguished walls.

9. The Salem Inn

Salem’s fascinating history envelops guests at this three-star property, where accommodations are spread across three beautifully restored historic homes.

The inn’s location at 7 Summer Street places you within walking distance of Salem Maritime National Historic Site and the city’s many museums.

Each historic house brings its own character and architectural details, offering variety while maintaining consistent comfort standards.

Salem’s complex past includes maritime trade, witch trial infamy, and significant contributions to early American commerce.

Museums and historic sites cluster throughout the compact downtown, making it easy to immerse yourself in the city’s stories.

The waterfront area has been beautifully restored, featuring tall ship replicas and interpretive exhibits about Salem’s seafaring heritage.

Guest rooms blend period furnishings with contemporary amenities, creating spaces that honor the past without sacrificing modern convenience.

Peabody Essex Museum houses extraordinary collections of maritime art and Asian treasures brought back by Salem merchants.

The inn’s super convenient location means you can explore on foot, discovering hidden courtyards and historic architecture around every corner.

October brings special energy to Salem as visitors flock to experience the city’s connection to the witch trials and Halloween celebrations.

Year-round, however, Salem offers rich cultural experiences beyond its most famous chapter of history.

This establishment provides an authentic base for discovering one of Massachusetts’ most historically significant cities.

10. The Old Mill Inn

Something truly special happens when historic industrial architecture transforms into intimate lodging, as demonstrated by this unique three-star boutique establishment.

The property occupies a restored mill building at 141 Main Street in Hatfield, where the sounds of the river and waterfall create natural nighttime lullabies.

Rustic industrial design elements blend seamlessly with modern comforts, resulting in spaces that feel both authentic and contemporary.

Exposed beams, original brickwork, and carefully preserved architectural features remind guests of the building’s working past.

The Connecticut River Valley surrounds this property with agricultural landscapes and small-town New England character.

Guest rooms offer peaceful retreats where the gentle sounds of moving water replace the usual urban noise pollution.

The inn’s boutique nature means personalized attention and a more intimate experience than larger chain properties provide.

Historic Deerfield lies nearby, offering additional opportunities to explore preserved colonial buildings and museums.

The property’s unique character attracts travelers seeking something different from typical hotel experiences.

Fall foliage transforms the surrounding valley into a spectacular display of color that rivals anywhere in Massachusetts.

The waterfall that once powered the mill now serves as a scenic focal point, visible from various spots around the property.

This establishment proves that historic preservation and modern hospitality can create something greater than the sum of their parts.