As a first-time visitor to the storied city of Boston, Massachusetts, and a first-time guest at one of the luxurious Raffles brand hotels, I couldn’t help but wonder why it took me so long to experience both!

Having opened its doors in 2023, Raffles Boston’s modern interiors exude elegance. From the moment guests enter the bellhop lobby on the ground floor, the VIP experience begins. You are led to a rose gold elevator and whisked up to the hotel’s sky lobby. As the doors open, you’re greeted by a grand spiral staircase and ushered into a quiet check-in lounge designed to resemble a library or museum, paying homage to the opulence of the Singapore-based Raffles brand.

While enjoying impeccable views of downtown Boston, the friendly staff offer you a hot tea or coffee and provide an overview of the property’s top-tier amenities, including the Guerlain Spa, an expertly designed fitness center, a swimming pool, and a jacuzzi. Next, you’ll meet your butler—a signature aspect of the Raffles luxury experience. Available around the clock, butlers cater to your every need, from arranging special experiences to organizing excursions in Boston, ensuring you never go without.

Of course, a major highlight of Raffles Boston is the rooms themselves. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide some of the best views in the city, while soaking tubs, a fully stocked minibar (featuring premium local liquors and snacks), and sumptuously comfortable beds invite you to indulge in complete relaxation.

For couples seeking a venue unlike any other in the city, Raffles Boston’s wedding offerings are a true gem. With five dedicated event spaces and five distinctive restaurants and bars—including Boston’s highest ballroom, which boasts a 180-degree vista, and a moody, high-class speakeasy—a wedding at Raffles eliminates the need for transportation between the ceremony and reception, giving you more time to celebrate.

When it comes to wedding cuisine, be prepared to be amazed. Chef George Mendes has become an integral part of the Raffles Boston experience, crafting innovative dishes that often feature Boston staples with a Portuguese twist. For an even more elevated reception, consider reserving the property’s signature dining experience, Amar, which overlooks the Back Bay, Charles River, and Cambridge. Amar’s ever-evolving menu takes guests on a culinary journey, with indulgent bites like the Steelhead Trout “Cru” featuring yuzu citrus dressing, puffed rice, and dried black olive—ensuring one of the most memorable meals of their lives.

Cap off the wedding night with a celebration straight out of the Roaring Twenties. Locate the “secret” black door adorned with a duck wearing a top hat over its eyes, swing it open, and step into a moody, split-level speakeasy in the sky. Ideal for pre-wedding photos or first looks, The Blind Duck transforms at night into a sophisticated cocktail lounge, serving handcrafted drinks inspired by the rich history of Boston.

Beyond the luxurious confines of Raffles Boston, the city itself offers a rich tapestry of experiences that make it an ideal wedding destination. Known for its walkability, Boston invites guests to explore its charming neighborhoods and historic landmarks on foot. The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route connecting 16 significant historical sites, takes visitors on a journey through the nation’s past, beginning at Boston Common and culminating at Bunker Hill.

Hosting a wedding at Raffles Boston not only provides an opulent setting but also immerses guests in a city that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern sophistication. With Raffles’ unparalleled service and Boston’s wealth of attractions, couples can expect a wedding experience that is both unforgettable and uniquely tailored to their vision.