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The Parker House has operated continuously longer than any other hotel in America (since 1856!). The hotel underwent a complete upgrade and gained a business center and exercise facility when the Omni chain took over in 2001. Guest rooms, a patchwork of more than 50 configurations, aren't huge, but they are thoughtfully laid out and nicely appointed. Many overlook Old City Hall or Government Center. The range of features makes the hotel popular with business travelers, who can book a unit with an expanded work area, as well as sightseers, who can economize by booking a small room or taking advantage of a weekend deal, especially in the winter. The pattern on the bedspreads, so gaudy that it's elegant, is a reproduction of the original, and the lobby of the 14-story hotel boasts its original American oak paneling.

Facilities: Restaurant (New England); 2 bars; 24-hr. exercise room; access to nearby health club ($20); children's programs; concierge; tour desk; business center; 24-hr. room service; babysitting; laundry service; same-day dry cleaning; executive-level rooms. Rooms for travelers with disabilities are available.

© 2005, Wiley Publishing, Inc.