In recent years, inns have sprung up in the Back Bay, the South End, and Cambridge, as well. Inns at prime locations reach similar levels. Inns' appeal is specialized. Where motels offer blandness and no surprises, inns' entire appeal is their antique charm. Decor varies from room to room.
Some inns ask guests to share bathrooms.
Some come paired with fine restaurants. Where the restaurant at a hotel often has difficulty appealing beyond in house clientele, the same charm that brings overnight guests brings diners from elsewhere to an inn. A hotel is firm mattresses, uniformed help, and televisions. An inn is the guest book with dinner recommendations, a fire in the fireplace, and a breakfast table you might share. The innkeeper knows the guests and feels free to decorate with antiques.