Fairmont Copley Plaza

The Fairmont Copley Plaza opened in 1912 and describes itself as a Boston landmark. It is part of the Fairmont brand and offers the facilities expected of a luxury hotel in a building with more than a century of history.

The hotel's signature restaurant is OAK Long Bar + Kitchen, which the hotel describes as acclaimed; critics have named OAK Boston's best hotel bar, so it is worth a visit for a drink even if you are staying elsewhere. In-room dining and private dining are also available. One of the hotel's best-loved features is Cori Copley, a black Labrador who serves as the hotel's mascot and canine ambassador, and the hotel is pet-friendly, with a dog-friendly menu for four-legged guests.

Facilities include a state-of-the-art fitness centre, meeting and event spaces and Fairmont Gold, the brand's upgraded level of rooms and service. The hotel also promotes packages for couples and families, and accessibility information is available on its website. Members of the ALL loyalty programme can receive discounts on bookings, so it is worth checking before you reserve.

This is a good choice for couples, families travelling with dogs and anyone who appreciates a historic hotel with a sense of occasion. Prices are at the upper end of the market, and as a general tip it pays to compare room categories carefully, since older buildings often have a wider variety of room sizes than modern hotels. Ask at booking if you need a particular bed type or a quieter room.

If you are bringing a dog, check the hotel's pet policy and any fees before you book, and let the hotel know in advance so it can prepare. Booking a drink or dinner at OAK is a simple way to see the hotel's public rooms if you are staying elsewhere. Families should ask about the hotel's family travel offers, and couples can look at its packages for a weekend away.

The hotel is on St. James Avenue in Back Bay, and the restaurants it lists as neighbours, including Grill 23 & Bar, Saltie Girl, Sorellina and Atlantic Fish Company, show how well placed it is for dining. Back Bay's sights, from the Boston Public Library to View Boston, make it a convenient base for exploring the city on foot.