Massachusetts history runs deep. As one of the first original 13 states, Massachusetts has no shortage of historical landmarks from the Mayflower, Plymouth Rock, the USS Constitution and so many more. From stories of Paul Revere and John Hancock to the Boston Tea Party, Massachusetts has played an integral part in the country's history.

In addition to its historic value, Massachusetts is also home to some of the oldest buildings and businesses in the country. From the country's first bar, high school, and restaurant, Massachusetts is home to so many firsts.

That rich history brings visitors in droves to Massachusetts. According to Visit Massachusetts, over 31 million people from all over the world visit the state annually, which brings in $24.2 billion in travel-related revenue, supporting $1.6 billion in state and local taxes and 153,200 jobs.

Massachusetts tourism and the state's hospitality industry are often highlighted by different travel publications and recently three hotels in the Commonwealth were named in Travel & Leisure's Best Awards as some of the best in the world. Travel & Leisure is considered a leader in travel publications with over 4.8 million readers so their endorsements hold a fair amount of weight.

In order to make their selections the publications surveyed over 165,000 people and then examined the top 100 hotels on rooms and facilities, location, service, food, and value.

These Three Massachusetts Hotels Awarded Best in the World

  • The Newbury Boston, 1 Newbury St, Boston

Located at the intersection of Newbury and Arlington Streets in Back Bay, is a historic luxury landmark that originally opened in 1927 as one of the first Ritz-Carlton hotels in the United States. It remains a top choice for travelers in 2026 thanks to it's recent multi-million dollar renovation.

 

  • The Wauwinet, 120 Wauwinet Rd, Nantucket 
The Wauwinet is a historic luxury inn on Nantucket Island, which is open seasonally from late April to October. It's popular for its serene prime location on Nantucket between the ocean and the bay, and it's exceptional dining. It is the island's only Relais & Châteaux hotel, known for an idyllic blend of comfort and extraordinary service.
  • Candleberry Inn on Cape Cod, 1882 Main St, Brewster

Located in the heart of the historic bayside village of Brewster, The Candleberry Inn is a multiple award-winning boutique bed and breakfast. Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century sea captain's home  it's a favorite for it's blend of historic charm, luxurious amenities and gourmet breakfast.

LOOK: Stunning, historic hotels from every state and the stories behind them

Stacker curated this list of stunning, historic hotels from every state. To be considered for inclusion, the structure must be more than 50 years old. Many of the selected hotels are listed on the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and several are purported to be haunted.

Gallery Credit: Erin Joslyn

 

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