The Liberty occupies one of Boston's most unusual buildings: the former Charles Street Jail, an 1851 granite landmark at the foot of Beacon Hill, transformed into a striking luxury hotel. The conversion kept the building's dramatic bones — a soaring 90-foot central rotunda, the original cell-block architecture — while turning the spaces into stylish rooms, restaurants, and some of the liveliest bars in the city (including one literally called Alibi, in the old drunk tank). It's a destination as much as a hotel, with Charles River views and Beacon Hill at the door.
The Liberty, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is set inside the former Charles Street Jail — an 1851 granite building that held prisoners for over a century before a celebrated conversion turned it into one of Boston's most distinctive hotels. The architects preserved the building's most dramatic feature, a central rotunda soaring around 90 feet under a cupola, along with elements of the original cell-block structure, then layered in contemporary luxury.
The result is a hotel with genuine theater. The rotunda anchors a buzzy social scene — restaurants and bars that draw locals as much as guests, with playful nods to the building's past (the cellar bar Alibi occupies the former drunk tank, lined with mugshots). Rooms in the original building and a newer tower are contemporary and comfortable, many with views over the Charles River or the city. Service and amenities are full, in keeping with the Luxury Collection.
The location, at the foot of Beacon Hill where it meets the river, is excellent: Beacon Hill's cobblestone charm and the Common are uphill, the Charles River Esplanade is across the way, and Back Bay and downtown are easily reached. The Liberty is for travelers who want luxury with a story and a social buzz — though those seeking a quiet retreat should know the bars can be lively on weekends.
Why stay here
- ✓Dramatic 90-foot rotunda
- ✓Multiple restaurants and bars
- ✓Charles River views (select rooms)
- ✓Fitness center
- ✓Concierge
- ✓Valet parking
- ✓Free WiFi
- ✓Charles River views nearby
Good questions
Was this really a jail?+
Yes — the hotel occupies the former Charles Street Jail, built in 1851, which held prisoners for over a century before being converted into a luxury hotel. The dramatic central rotunda and elements of the cell-block architecture were preserved.
What's the atmosphere like?+
Lively and social — the rotunda anchors popular restaurants and bars (including Alibi, in the old drunk tank) that draw locals as well as guests. Those wanting a quiet retreat should note the bars can be busy on weekends.
Where is it?+
At the foot of Beacon Hill where it meets the Charles River, with Beacon Hill and the Common uphill, the river Esplanade across the way, and Back Bay and downtown nearby.
