What to expect: Located on 17 wooded acres on the Charles River, this Boston-area hotel caters to business travelers, conferences, sports teams playing local colleges, and leisure travelers who appreciate its tranquil setting. The bright, chandelier-lit lobby includes a sitting area and a separate, comfortably appointed lounge.

Amenity highlights: A 24-hour fitness center with water and towel service offers cardiovascular machines, each with a personal television, and free weights. The hotel also has a 40x20-foot heated indoor swimming pool and an eight-person spa tub.

A 24-hour business center includes printers and computers with high-speed and wireless Internet connections (surcharge). The hotel also offers more than 20,000 square feet of flexible meeting space.

Insider tip: Down the riverbank 200 yards from the hotel, an independently operated boathouse on the Charles River rents canoes and kayaks in warm-weather months.

What to expect: A convenient stopover for business travelers, the Crowne Plaza Newton also attracts vacationers and wedding parties seeking moderately priced accommodations outside Boston but with easy access to downtown attractions. The hotel's dog-friendly policy is attractive to guests who travel with canine companions.

Amenity highlights: Complimentary amenities include use of two lobby computers, wireless Internet access in the lobby, and weekend shuttle transportation to and from Copley Square in Boston’s Back Bay.

Housed on the third floor are an indoor pool and fitness center with turnpike views. Martha’s Restaurant offers casual dining and evening cocktails.

Insider tip: Between the first Tuesday after the Fourth of July and the last Friday in October, Newton’s Farmer’s Market offers fresh fruits and vegetables, maple syrup, goat cheese, breads, flowers, and other products. The market is held Tuesdays at Cold Spring Park and on Fridays at American Legion Post 440. Hours are 1:30 PM-6 PM, rain or shine.