I had my wedding here in May, so this will be a long but all encompassing review of all different…read moreaspects of the Hawthorne. When I was looking for venues, I wanted all inclusive and one location. I spoke with Christine Madigan via email and then over the phone. She assured me that the Hawthorne did weddings well. We booked, signed contracts, set up a room block and everything. The room block: 3/5 stars I originally worked with Beth who set everything up for me and then was transferred to Rob as positions changed. I initially had 15 rooms in my block which we filled pretty quickly, but I saved one for my husbands grandmother so she could stay onsite. She called to book a room and was told there were no rooms. There were rooms so I called and spoke with Rob because she was pretty upset. He assured me we had rooms and for grandma to call him directly. Evidently the folks at the front desk didn't understand how the room block was intended to work. This happened over and over and over again. I really wish they would have set it up so my guests could book online because I heard from nearly half of my guests that either they couldn't get the days we were promised or the room type they wanted. I even had 3 couples stay at another hotel because of this so Hawthorne lost out on money because they couldn't get their booking system organized. One of my couples ended up in a room with a TWIN BED for 2 people. How is that even possible? Meanwhile I had a single person in a room with 2 queen beds and 2 bathrooms? Like I get accommodating people's requests, but a little critical thinking and communication would have gone a long way for comfort here. I doubt those people will come back to this hotel for this reason, which is sad because its such a lovely place. The menu tasting: 5/5 stars We were invited to a tasting of hors d'oeuvres, dinner selections, wine, cocktails and wedding cake. It was amazing to be able to sample items we wanted to serve without doing so blindly. Their food is phenomenal so we were excited to be able to share this with our guests. Wedding planning: 5/5 stars I received packets of information before booking Hawthorne as my venue, so I was aware of the pricing up front. I was even able to create a quote using their pricing sheet so nothing was a surprise. Christine was available to answer all of my questions throughout the process. As we got closer, she gave us homework to complete so we were ready for our big day. We created a signature mocktail, filled out place cards, went over our timeline, dropped off welcome bags, etc. Everything leading up to our wedding day (outside of booking guest rooms) was super smooth and easy. Pretty much everything was provided by the venue. I only had to book a photographer, content creator, photo booth, DJ and HMU on my own. The rest was handled for me which really made things so much smoother. We ended up well under budget, too! Wedding day: 3.5/5 stars If I could go back, I would hire a dedicated day of coordinator who worked specifically for me and not the venue. Christine was great, and did her job well, but she wasn't dedicated to me the entirety of the evening. And she and my mom were butting heads over things we were promised and not delivered. My mom did my wedding florals. We asked in advance if we could have refrigerator space and a private room to set up in. We were told we could have both, and on the day of, there was magically no fridge space, access to water, or a secure room to work in. It was extremely frustrating to be promised things and then not have those promises fulfilled. We were able to pivot and adapt, but that added so much stress to me on a day where I should not have added stress. The room she was working in was also being used as storage for a wedding the following weekend. The hotel has tons of space so I'm not sure why it had to be there but it seemed at that point it was a battle of wills more than anything. My photo booth company arrived right at the time we were about to start our ceremony, which was planned in advance, but the way the rooms were set up he ended up being in the lobby. This turned out to be really fun for wedding guests and random hotel guests to watch, but it was a bit awkward at first. Some of the items we brought for our reception were not brought down and we had to track people down to retrieve those. There was a room upstairs that was dedicated for us to hide away in and eat our appetizers, but I wanted to be with my guests and the appetizers never made it to me and my husband so I was told they were good but I didn't get to try them all. Dinner was absolutely amazing. However, I heard SO MANY complaints afterward about our bartender. I guess he was rude, and terrible at making drinks and when people tried to go to the other bar they got turned away. Overall I had the best day ever and would do it over again with a few tweaks :)

My boyfriend and I recently stayed at the Hawthorne Hotel for a short staycation. We live nearby…read moreand chose the hotel specifically for its history, haunted reputation, and because the price point included what we were told would be complimentary breakfast. The room itself was nice and comfortable, and we were surprised (in a good way) to find that it was a double room. In terms of the "haunted" experience, we did hear some tapping noises coming from the closet shortly after settling in. It was definitely spooky, and my boyfriend barely slept, hoping it would happen again--but it didn't. Still, it added to the atmosphere we were looking for. Unfortunately, the experience took a turn the next morning. When we went down for breakfast, we were informed that we needed a voucher or token that we were never given. I went back to the room to call the front desk for clarification and was told that breakfast was only included if you were given a "certificate," which was never explained at booking. My boyfriend then went to speak to the front desk himself, since he made the reservation (even though I was present when it was booked). He was told that no one ever told him breakfast was included, and the interaction felt accusatory--as though he was being accused of lying. This was uncomfortable and disappointing, especially since we booked the stay based on that information. Adding to that discomfort, as we exited the elevator to head to breakfast, we could hear two front desk staff members chatting enthusiastically. When they noticed us, the conversation abruptly stopped, and they stared as we walked by. It created an awkward and unwelcoming feeling. One was a gentleman with longer hair, and the other was a woman with her hair pulled back in a ponytail. The manager was also involved in the conversation with my boyfriend. I do want to highlight the positives: The server at Nathaniel's was extremely kind and pleasant, and another woman working in the restaurant was also warm and helpful. The room itself was nice, and the restaurant service was genuinely the best part of our stay. That said, due to the front desk and management experience, this is not a hotel we would choose to stay at again--neither for the haunted experience nor for the treatment we received. Salem has many hotel options, and while we wanted this stay to be something special, it fell short. We were hoping to leave a glowing review, but aside from the room and restaurant staff, the overall experience left us disappointed.

Do not stay at for Hawthorne Motel…read more It saddens me to have to say that the quality of management has really depreciated so badly I would never stay at this motel again. My husband and I have stayed here for 10 years and this year with the management being Jeff and Kari we experienced the worst in hospitality that we have experienced in our 62 years of life My husband and I were traveling with our 2-year-old granddaughter and have stayed here for the past 3 years with her. Although the accommodations were modest at best we were treated well, and always returned same time each year. This year unfortunately we were met by Jeff who immediately started complaining about hot having to manage this because there wasn't anybody else in the family to do it. He was very aware that we will bring in our granddaughter asked if we even needed a pack and flight which we did not we had accommodations for her for the floor. The next day when I saw Jeff with my granddaughter he waved and said hi Gramm! Although we noticed a difference in the accommodations at the motel to name a few there was no luggage cart ( Jeff complained he was tired of people hitting the air-conditioning units with it) a soda machine ( he was tired of fixing it) there were no more small table next to the lawn chairs, we were provided a quarter of a sponge which was used on the sink when we arrived, a quarter paper towels in the paper towel holder a quarter toilet paper in the toilet paper dispenser - seemed like there was a need to severely cut costs ? In the bathtub the safety handle collapsed when used by my granddaughter ! A lamp was broken in the room and when I put it outside to be taken by housekeeping staff, Jeff appeared annoyed and short with my husband. By the third morning my husband was asked to be spoken to by Jeff and my son was also present. He proceeded to say how disruptive we were and that he was receiving complaints about us from other guests ! ( we had been there less than 48 hours at this time with our granddaughter ) Interesting our neighbors next door who we knew from last year told us they did not hear a thing and was shocked to hear this as well, " wow they really made you feel unwanted didn't they/" Jeff noted that I called tomy husband to bring her back from the car and felt that was disruptive. I've never been treated so offensively in a place that supposed to be hospitality focused in my life. Jeff even went on to say that a guest left " early" come to find out normal departure time was 11 and she said she left at 8 because we were noisy... We leave our room by 715am ! Follow on conversation with Jeff and Kari left us to feel like we were burden, unwanted and severely disrespectful of others and they had no choice but to put us in our place! They provided no viable explanation of disruptive behaviors that we would think would warrant this horrible treatment . My husband and I decided this was not a place we felt comfortable staying in for 1 more minute and left 3 days early. Kari and Jeff refused to refund our 3 nights stay- "good luck with that your card was aready charged" she smirked. So this is what it's come to at the Hawthorne Motel we will not be back and do not recommend others to visit unless they want to be subjected to an unstable unhappy individuals unwelcoming ways. The Hawthorne and severely needs updates, and if it's time for the family to sell it to get into the hands that somebody can make it enjoyable stay again soon.so be it!

The owner Jeff made our stay Fantastic . He always asked…read morewhat we we needed and helped us navigate my handicap. Always friendly with a smile.Highly recommend.

The ambience is like meeting a treasured old friend, the food was delicious, three of us enjoyed…read moreour meals, fresh fish, kale salad, and the pistacchio martini!! To die for! Exquisite espresso martini and a decent Guiness on tap. But the highlight of the dinner was Matt, our waiter, considerate, friendly, good food suggestions (dessert was bread pudding & a creme brûlée), but most of all, Matt, gives off that aura which makes you feel like you are his only patron! I wish him all the best & the recognition he deserves!

Went to The Tavern at the Hawthorne Hotel and overall it was a really good experience -- the place…read morehas that classic Salem/old-hotel vibe and it's a great spot for dinner or drinks. Food was solid and the drinks were on point. Everything came out pretty quick and most of the staff was friendly. Only reason I'm not giving it 5 stars: the vibe was a little creepy (which I know is kind of the point in Salem lol), and the boy who seated us was honestly pretty rude and made the first impression weird. That said, I'd still go back because the food/drinks and overall atmosphere are worth it -- just hoping the service/hosting is better next time.

Luxury and grandeur are highlights here!…read more The Hotel Commonwealth is a beautiful place with grand architecture and awesome inspiring views. These views come from inside and outside the building. It's located in Boston, lots of pride here for the baseball team, it's the "official home," of the Boston Red Sox . As you walk and down the Ave of Commonwealth, the traffic is terrible. Make sure and watch and experience the area as a pedestrian. When you check into the hotel the parking is all valet. Remember this is a luxurious place and the parking is pricey about $75 a night . You can check in around four p.m. too! The experience is absolutely flawless. They have all that you need to have a great evening . We are on vacation and they have in room dining . All was absolutely perfect on our trip. Thank you to the staff for making the evening special.

The hotel was located walking distance from Fenway Park and multiple shops and restaurants. It was…read morevery clean and the rooms were very spacious and comfortable. I attended a conference here so I got to experience the conference space which is very well done. The food served by their catering was also delicious

The mixed reviews after their remodel had me worried but rest assured-- this place is absolutely…read moregreat. Room is smaller but it's not ridiculously cramped. The barn door is slightly annoying but you can still manage. Beds are on the softer side but still very comfortable. The common hallway and the lobby are clean and well maintained. The staff is amazing and so attentive. We got water bottles on arrival and check out. They have kid activity bags. The doormen are kind. Overall centrally located and a gem. Easily accessible with luggage from the T at government center or even Park street.

They texted me at the beginning of the stay to let them know about any front desk needs but when I…read moredid there was no response back in text. Felt like a bait and switch Overall staff were kind and rooms were clean and welcoming.

I don't recommend staying here due to Malik at the front desk and the General Manager. I chose this…read morehotel because of its proximity to our wedding venue. I got two rooms for my bridal party. I called a month before to get a late check out for one room and to add an additional night for my husband and I after. I asked about potential fees associated with a late check out and they said they were very accommodating to weddings and while they couldn't guarantee it till the day of, they were likely to let us check out atleast by 3. We checked in 10/16 and met Malik. I revisited the late check out for the room. He said we could check out anytime. He even mentioned that they've accommodated other weddings by allowing them to check out as late as 6pm. He said a late check out a 3pm was no problem for us and was open to hearing if we needed anything else as well. As bride this was comforting. Unfortunately the general manager, showed up at the door at 12:50pm on the wedding day and told them they needed to leave by 1 and charged us before discussing with us I called for clarification where Malik later stated he never stated those things, was rude, often spoke over me. I told him to just charge us but when I attempted to ask for more clarification from the manager, he proceeded talk over me. We left right after our wedding due to our discomfort with this hotel. Rules are inconsistent and Malik was rude. You caused increase stress on my wedding day so brides go elsewhere. I don't know who the general manager is but I recommend that you and your staff get on the same page because this miscommunication could've been avoided, if I was given the correct information in the first place.

Creepy place, run down. Could barely sleep. Bed smelt like…read morecheetos and under my bed was someone's inhaler. .. Gave some stars becaus Front desk was bubbly and nice.

This Inn is so beautifully decorated that the more I looked the more I was intrigued. The ambiance…read moremixes new feels with old touches, so well done! I took pictures for ideas. The hosts are lovely!! This is a wonderful stay.

This was our first real b&b experience. This place is recently renovated and under new ownership…read more(as of 2016) and they did a phenomenal job. The decorations are beautiful and perfectly meet the line of modern and charming. Owners are super nice but give you plenty of privacy and location is great. Land used to be part of Nathaniel Hawthorne's property (Scarlet Letter author). Great coffee, too. Perfect if you're looking for a clean-feeling b&b for a reasonable price. Highly recommended!

It's our last night at Stepping Stone; a delightful three extraordinary nights. Matt and Kelly…read morecouldn't be better hosts. They are always available to provide tips and information while carefully listening to your desires. The Inn is beautifully decorated with unique antiques. So appropriate for this house built in 1826. There are no musty odors or creeks to attest to its age. It's obvious Matt and Kelly love this home. They and their kitties take excellent care of it and will take great care of you.

Great location and owners. Unique experience staying in such an historical structure. Close to…read moreeverything. Matt and Kelly provide excellent details and their recommendations helped us plan our trip with plenty of time to book desired tours. We stayed in the Washington room on the second floor with a lot of space and large mirror to get ready. The Inn felt very comfortable and we enjoyed relaxing in the living room. Highly recommend! Close to everything.

I had a five star stay at the Salem Waterfront! This is one of my favorite hotels I've ever stayed…read moreat in my entire life and that's why I continue to come here! I had not been here in about three years, and apparently the hotel went through a major renovation. It was really nice back then, but I think it looks even better now! The artwork, the decor, the wonderful nautical charm about this place is really awesome! Our room was an imperial king suite and I absolutely recommend this if you are a couple looking to have a nice relaxing stay or if you just want a spacious room with a separate bedroom, living room room and a wonderful bathroom! The bathroom itself had twin sinks, a smart toilet and a shower big enough to fit four people plus a gigantic tub. I felt so pampered and had a wonderful relaxing time here! The restaurant downstairs has wonderful food where they serve breakfast and dinner. They also offer a Tesla shuttle service, which will take you pretty much within the historical sections of Salem. Behind the Salem Waterfront are a collection of really awesome stores and seafood restaurants right within walking distance. I had such a wonderful time and experience here and I will be making a second trip later on for the fall! Thank you so much waterfront for doing an amazing job and making my stay worth it!

Stayed here while on vacation after looking at many other hotels. This place was perfect! Plus the…read moreindoor pool was perfect in the winter which my son enjoyed. Loved the decor. Great location!

Altogether unprofessional, the covers were dirty , dirty tub . the owner in charge would sneak in…read moreout rooom when we were gone , she saw a mess I had getting ready and she told me no messes should be in the room as I was not gonna pick up my clothes and pack up

Not worth the stay. Lobby was filthy, there were trash bags and sticky empty cans all over the…read moretables, and stacks of paper all over the place. There are people who live here full time and the guest staying next to us was intrusive and made us incredibly uncomfortable. They had a cat running around, and they were always outside trying to chase the cat down and chain smoking cigarettes. She at one point had asked me to climb through her open window to unlock her door as she had locked her keys inside and was mad when I said no. Very strange situation. The room itself was ok at first, the mattress and pillows were uncomfortable and the air conditioner didn't work. I would've opened the windows but didn't feel safe doing that with our neighbor milling about, and the other windows had no screens so bugs could get in. When we were getting to leave I noticed a mouse/bug trap behind our refrigerator. Had I noticed this when I arrived I don't think I would've stayed. Wont be returning.