Opened in February 2008, this bright 450-room hotel offers a lot for the price -- fairly large, stylish rooms; an indoor pool; a great restaurant; and a lively bar. With a location that's ultra convenient to the airport, train station, and Boston Convention Center, it naturally attracts large groups but not so much so that individual guests feel lost or ignored.

Downtown Boston's Harborside Inn has no gym, no restaurant, and no porters or valets, but with well-sized, spotless rooms, a friendly front desk staff, and a prime location, it's a worthwhile value for leisure and business travelers who can do without the extras.

This 315-room, 15-story affordable hotel has small standard rooms that make the most out of the space and a great location a mere block from the Boston Common. Free extras like Internet access, rollaway beds, and coffee help keep costs down -- and make us wish more hotels did the same.

The 64-room, two-pearl Found Hotel Boston Common has two strong points -- price and location. Surrounded by the Theater District’s nightlife, dining, and shopping, the hotel is a brief walk to Boston Common and subway stations. For guests seeking a clean place to sleep and little more, it’s a reasonable choice at an unbeatable price. But rooms are dated and cramped, especially for couples or families. If the location is desirable but better overall accommodations are necessary, consider the nearby DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Boston-Downtown. For a quaint bed-and-breakfast experience nearby, consider the Gryphon. However, expect to pay considerably higher rates for these more upscale alternatives.