The Envoy Hotel, Autograph Collection

"Tell us a little about this place.One of the city's most exciting new hotels, the Envoy is a perfect microcosm for everything that's great about Boston at the moment. Located just across the water from South Station and the city's top historical sites, the Envoy has a sleek, all-glass exterior that blends in with its neighborhood—the thriving Seaport District—while reflecting the old buildings across the river. Outside the entrance, bronze lettering etched in the sidewalk appropriately spells out "This Way Forward." Step inside and you'll find yourself in a sweeping lobby marked by a massive chandelier made of reclaimed ropes and phone cords, communal coworking tables, low-slung furniture, and funky contemporary art. Who else is staying at this hip new place?Young creative types, travelers with an eye for design, and every sort of craft-brew-loving hipster with a little cash to burn. Tell us about the digs.Rooms are contemporary with lots of reclaimed wood and sleek, modern finishes. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer dramatic views of either the city or the harbor, and a large-scale antique map of Boston overlaid on the bathroom door lends a hyper-local feel. Every piece of furniture was custom designed for the hotel, including the TV stands, which were made from discarded bicycles, and every room comes with an umbrella and tote bag for exploring the neighborhood, rain or shine. How about the little things, like the mini bar, or the bathroom amenities—anything worth a mention?The hotel is a temple to local businesses: bathroom amenities from Boston-based Fresh; minibar goodies from Organic Living Superfoods, a company based in nearby Walpole, and art by area makers. How about the room service—anything worth ordering, or should we just venture out?The snack-y room service menu facilitates all-day grazing, with pita chips ($5), coconut water ($9), Starbucks cold brew ($8), and Kind Bars ($6). Heartier dinner options include chicken with butternut squash, caramelized honey gastrique, and smoked sukkah ($26). And the staff—does anyone deserve a shout-out?The concierge here is approachable, friendly, and insightful about everything that makes the Seaport one of Boston's trendiest neighborhoods right now. What about the other services and features?The ground-floor Outlook Kitchen and Bar and the Lookout Rooftop and Bar are both Seaport must-visits for locals and travelers alike; the Wellness Concierge will assist in booking exercise classes or spa treatments throughout the city; there is valet parking; and the hotel is pet-friendly. Bottom line: Why are we booking here?In a city with so much history, the Envoy is a fresh breath of modernity. The emphasis on health and wellness, local art, and high-impact design are an essential part of why the Seaport is so abuzz." - Todd Plummer