BOSTON

In the 19th century, Boston was nicknamed 'The Hub of the Solar System' such was its importance at the heart of the young American nation.

- JONATHAN THOMPSON

Ask any of the passionate locals - especially Red Sox baseball fans and they'll say it's still an accurate description. The star at the centre of this particular galaxy is a compact 400-year-old downtown, home to a collection of historic sites that form the core of the Freedom Trail, and the harbour where the Boston Tea Party protest took place 250 years ago. You'll find most of the best hotels in the Back Bay or South End areas, both flanking the downtown and close to the culinary and cultural action.

Best all-rounder

BOSTON HARBOR HOTEL

Anchoring the oceanfront Rowes Wharf, this heavyweight hotel is the host venue for the Boston Wine & Food Festival, a three-month event that kicks off every year in January. It's also home to one of the city's finest seafood restaurants, Rowes Wharf Sea Grille, which serves a memorable lobster fried rice. The bright, recently renovated rooms have blue tones and maritime art that pay tribute to the setting; the ones marked with even numbers have a guaranteed sea view. There's an enormous pool beneath reception, hotel boat trips out to the harbour islands and live music on a floating barge every evening. Add the fact that the Children's Museum and Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum are within easy walking distance, and you have a true all-rounder. ROOMS: From £485. bostonharborhotel.com

Best for bargain hunters
THE REVOLUTION HOTEL