BOSTON—Distance runners and their accompanying cheerleaders who are looking for a hotel room in Boston for the marathon next Monday might have to spend a lot more than expected. According to a new survey conducted by BostonHotels.org, hotels are increasing their rates sharply for the city’s biggest annual event.
At the time the survey was completed, roughly 25 percent of the hotels in central Boston still had available rooms for the April 17–19, 2016 marathon timeframe. On average, however, they are charging 62 percent more than usual as a result of the scarcity. And some hotels are more than doubling their usual rates.
The Boston Marriott Copley Place serves as a good example. This 4-star hotel located in the historic Back Bay district of Boston is asking $559 for a double room during the marathon. Another case in point is the Courtyard Boston Downtown, a 3-star hotel located in the city’s theater district. The $499 it is charging for a standard room represents an increase of 161 percent compared to regular rates.
For the cheapest available double room (rated at least 3 stars) in the city center, a participating runner and his or her fans will have to spend roughly $700 for the two nights of April 17–19. According to Sarah Clarke from BostonHotels.org, “On no other days during the year are hotel rates pricier in the city.”
Those looking for a bit more affordable rates will find them in Dorchester and Cambridge or around the Boston Logan airport. There one should be able to secure a room from about $500 total for the two nights.
